There are several major sustainability trends that are notable in recent years, and solar power is perhaps the single most well-known. And if your home or building has a metal roof, installing solar panels and reaping all the benefits of this green source of power is even easier and more beneficial than with other roof types.
At Mid Michigan Metal Sales, we offer a huge range of metal roof panels and other products to clients around Michigan, including both exposed-fastener panels and hidden-fastener panels to meet any need you may have. Here are some of the reasons why metal roofs are fantastic for solar panel installation, plus often help make your solar power even more efficient and cost-effective in the long run.
Metal Roofs Last Longer
First and foremost, metal roofs are known for their longevity. While asphalt shingles may need to be replaced after 20-30 years, metal roofs can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance. This means that your solar panels will have a solid, stable base to rest on for decades to come, reducing the risk of costly repairs or replacements down the road.
One thing that solar installers often don’t mention during initial meetings is the fact that roofs often wear down before the solar panels themselves do. This means that when it comes time to replace your roof, you may need to remove and then reinstall the solar panels – a costly and inconvenient process. With a metal roof, this issue is significantly reduced due to the longer lifespan of this roofing material.
Durable Mounting System
Another key factor with any solar panel system is the mounting setup, which holds the panels securely in place and protects them from weather and other damage. With some roof materials, such as asphalt shingles, this is done by drilling holes straight through the roof and using bolts to attach the mounting system. However, this process can weaken the roof and cause leaks over time.
With metal roofs, though, the panels can be attached without any need for holes or bolts. Instead, they are mounted using special clips that fasten onto the standing seams of the roof, requiring zero penetration and simply clamping down on the roof surface. This ensures that your metal roof remains intact and leak-free, making it an ideal option for solar panel installation.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs also have great energy efficiency benefits when used in conjunction with solar panels. They can reflect heat from the sun, reducing overall air conditioning costs and keeping your home or building cooler during hot summer months. This means that your solar panels won’t have to work as hard to generate the same amount of electricity, ultimately saving you money on energy bills.
Additionally, metal roofs are made from recyclable materials and can themselves be recycled at the end of their lifespan. This makes them a more sustainable choice for both roofing and solar power.
Financial Incentives
One of the great things about solar in general is that there are often financial incentives available to help offset the upfront cost of installation. In many cases, these incentives are even better for businesses and homeowners with metal roofs due to their durability and energy efficiency benefits.
For example, some states offer tax credits or rebates specifically for solar on metal roof installations. These are often in addition to federal incentives like the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which can cover up to 26% of the cost of a solar installation. By taking advantage of these opportunities, you can save even more money while reducing your carbon footprint.
Fantastic Aesthetics
Finally, while this may not necessarily be your first priority when considering solar panel installation, it’s worth noting that metal roofs and solar panels are a sleek, attractive combination that can enhance the appearance of any home or building. Metal roofs come in a wide variety of colors and profiles, allowing you to choose an option that complements your solar panels and overall design aesthetic.
Metal roofs offer numerous benefits for those looking to install solar panels on their homes or buildings. From longevity and durability to energy efficiency and financial incentives, they are an excellent choice for anyone interested in sustainable living.
Consider a metal roof from Mid Michigan Metal Sales for your solar panel installation project and reap the many rewards that come with it. Contact us today to learn about any of our metal roofing, metal siding or other products for clients around Michigan.
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