Installation Of Solar Panels On Multiple Roof Types

You may be wondering what type of roof is best suited for solar installations, whether you are looking to install a residential or commercial solar system. You can install solar panels on any type of roof. The installation and mounting process can also be modified to suit a residential or commercial roof.

By HomeLight Homes

The Best Roofs For Solar Panels

Solar panels can be mounted in any roof type. Mounting solutions can also be modified to allow for the installation of different solar panels. There is only one difference between roof types: the cost of mounting solar panels. This is due to the different equipment required for certain types of roofs.

Solar Panels For Asphalt Shingle Roofs

One of the most common types of roofing material is asphalt shingle roofs. Attaching panel mounts to these locations is the easiest method to install solar panels. These brackets are sealed with roof flashing and secured with fasteners to ensure that they don’t cause damage to surrounding roofing materials. You can install the system on top of asphalt shingles and adjust it for maximum efficiency.

Clay Tiles

In Florida, traditional clay tiles are very popular. Traditional Spanish tile roofs offer greater durability and strength. It is possible that clay tiles will need to be removed and replaced with solar panels. Between the tiles, anchors must be placed. These hooks are unique in shape and will be inserted with the flashing. They then lock into place when the clay tiles get reinstalled. Companies may use the flashing to attach the tiles to fastening points. This can increase the area’s water-resistance and prevent tile from lifting prematurely.

Concrete And Slate

Concrete and slate must also be removed before solar panels can be installed. Some cases will require that the tile be removed by an installer using special fasteners. However, it is more common to first remove the tiles and then place the mounting foot in the flashing to attach the solar cells to your roof.

Concrete And Rubber Roofs

Commercial roofs often have a flat concrete or rubber top. In these cases, solar panels will need specialty racks to tilt them towards the sun. Specialty balances and penetration mounting systems are used to install slanted metal racks. To prevent wind damage, the ballast holds the weighted racking in place and is fastened to a roof. These panels sit on the roof with minimal fasteners, which can reduce installation costs.

Wood Roof

To install solar panels on a cedar or wood roof, you will need to use wood studs. The flashing material is then placed underneath the wooden tiles. This prevents any leaks. This installation is as simple as installing asphalt shingles.

Metal Roofing

The installation of metal roofing materials can vary slightly depending on their type. Roof panel mounts are usually clamped to the roof using holes in the metal roofing material. Corrugated metal roofs will have holes drilled into the roof. The sealant is then applied around the fasteners.

Any solar panel installation can be altered to fit a particular roof type. We can help you design a customized solution for your roof by talking to us about solar panel installation.

This post was written by Daniel Massaad, owner and expert solar technician at Energy Solutions Direct! ESD is the top choice for Solar Panels St Petersburg FL! Our licensed and certified contractors are masters of their craft; with years of experience servicing the great Tampa Bay area and beyond, the choice is simple. ESD excels at offering you the best in solar value!