Top Roof Type Options For Solar Panels
Solar panel installation in homes can come in two forms, which are the ground-mounted and rooftop installation. However, since the ground-mounting installation is more adapted for commercial usage, the rooftop is the most used in homes. However, before deciding on installing a solar panel in your home, you need to identify your roof’s material as this can influence the installation process.
Solar panel installation in homes can come in two forms, which are the ground-mounted and rooftop installation. However, since the ground-mounting installation is more adapted for commercial usage, the rooftop is the most used in homes. However, before deciding on installing a solar panel in your home, you need to identify your roof’s material as this can influence the installation process.
Composite Roofing
The composite roofing is the first on our list, and this is because it is the best suited for solar panel installation. It is the most common roof type that utilizes composite shingles or asphalt shingles made from fiberglass. The final product is gotten from a combination of these shingles and asphalt. The use of composite roofing is not only because of its widespread availability but also because of the flexibility and durability that comes from the design. This makes it a great option for solar panel installation.
Tile Roofing
Tile roofing is another roof type option that can accommodate solar panel systems in its design. There are different tiles types, and it is essential to identify which one is on your roof before going ahead with the installation. In some cases solar panels are offered as tile roofs, which is usually a more expensive option that may yield a lower efficiency rating. Although the clay tiles might look better on your roof. For instance the cost might become non-justifiable on a price to efficiency level, in which case you will normally be better off buying regular polycrystalline or monocrystalline solar panels.
Irrespective of the tile type, it is essential to raise the solar panel during the installation process. Raising the solar panel means increasing the distance from the roof, and this is done by attaching brackets to the design. The solar panel should also be angulated at 30 degrees, preferably facing the south or southwest area.
Metal Roofing With Standing Seams
The metal roofing is the best for installing solar panels, especially if they have standing seams. This is because you do not need to raise the solar panel or drill any hole during the installation process. Also, since the material is eco-friendly and durable, you can be sure that your metal roof will last for decades, depending on your location. Also, the metal roof can accommodate both the thin film and standard PV panels. The metal roofing also helps the solar panel reflect the sunlight on it, such that the solar panel can enjoy enough sunlight and store up energy.
Tar And Gravel Roofing
Tar and Gravel are more common with flat roofs, and due to this, installing solar panels on this kind of roof might be more expensive than the others mentioned earlier. This is because the solar panels will require angulation using additional brackets, hence, making the installation process a little more complicated. This does not stop the installation process, though, as it will pay off in the long run.
Wood
The wooden roof is the last option, and it is not suitable for solar panel installation. The reason is because of a likely fire outbreak, which can occur at just any time. Hence, homeowners with wooden roofs can consider the ground-mounted solar panel installation option.
