When you first inquire about solar, one of the first questions you’ll be asked is “What type of roof do you have?” While solar can be installed on most roof types, some are better suited for solar than others, and certain roofing materials may be best to avoid solar entirely.

Asphalt Shingle Roof

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material and the best material for installing solar panels – because of their commonness, this roofing material has the largest range of equipment for installers. These various options for equipment reduce the need for specialized parts, saving money on labor and parts, and reducing your project costs. Asphalt shingles are usually the most affordable roofing type, expecting to last 15-25 years, often lasting most if not all of your system’s life.

Metal Roof

Metal roofing is an excellent material for solar installations. Although they are on the pricy side, they have a very long life, making them a great pair for the 20–30-year life span of your solar system. Metal roofs with standing seams make installation easy, providing a smooth attachment process. Metal roofing offers the added benefit of being eco-friendly as manufacturers make it from recycled materials. It also reflects a good amount of sunlight that the panels don’t absorb, creating a cooling effect that can increase your system’s efficiency

Slate/Tile Roof

Although you can install solar on slate/tile roofs, it’s not the best option. It’s a difficult installation that requires specialized mounting systems to prevent damage to the brittle tiles. Without these specialized mountings, you run a high risk of leaks and cracks. Installation can be more expensive because of the delicacy of the material and the need for experienced installers. While Kokosing Solar is a trusted experienced installer backed by 25 years of experience, tile roofing is on our hard-no list as we do not want to take the risk of cracking the roofing material.

Tar and Gravel Roof

Tar and Gravel roofs work very well for solar installations, as they’re supportive, and the gravel reflects sunlight making them energy efficient. This material of roofing lasts 20-30 years, making it a great fit for the lifespan of a solar system. You can easily patch and repair tar and gravel roofs if damage occurs. Since these roofs are typically flat, you’ll likely need extra mounting hardware to pitch your panels at the optimal angle. Although this will increase the cost, it provides the best orientation for your solar system, potentially offering greater long-term savings.

Do I Need to Replace my Roof to go Solar?

Before your solar installation, the need for roof replacement ultimately depends on your roof’s age and material. If your roof is aging, damaged, or unable to support the weight of the solar panels, it’s wise to get a roof replacement or repair before installation.