James Elston
Published July 11, 2024
Yes, solar panels can be installed on metal roofs. In fact, metal roofs are one of the most ideal materials for solar panel installations!
The cost of solar panel installation can vary depending on the roof materials. Installing solar systems on metal roofs is generally affordable. If you’re considering installing a new metal roof along with your solar panel system, however, this can significantly increase the overall cost.
This guide will discuss everything you need to know before installing solar panels on your metal roof, including the installation process, the duration of the installation, and costs. We will also take you through some of the best alternatives for these roofs.
Contents
How Are Solar Panels Installed On Metal Roofs?
Let’s briefly look at the process of solar installations for the different types of roofs: standing seam, corrugated and trapezoidal. No matter what metal roof you are adding solar panels to, you will still be significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Standing seam metal roofs
A standing seam metal roof is arguably the easiest type of metal roof on which solar panels can be installed. Installers use mounting systems to clamp the panels onto the seams, so no holes need to be drilled into the roof.
As a result, this solar installation process is quicker and less labour-intensive, and often makes your roof less vulnerable to water damage.
The clamps used to attach solar panels onto a standing seam metal roof are also extremely durable, as they are made from strong aluminium. Because of this, these clamps generally come with a warranty of around 10 years.
Corrugated metal roofs
A corrugated metal roof has more prominent ridging. This means solar panel installers use a different system and unique brackets to fit the panels securely. These brackets are fitted near the top crest of the corrugated metal roof to leave the drainage area hole-free.
The best brackets you can use will have rubber gasket seals on the base. This means no sealant is required to finish the job, which keeps your roof looking neat.
Trapezoidal metal roofs
Installing solar panels on a trapezoidal metal roof is slightly more complicated than installing solar panels on standing seam or corrugated roofs. A trapezoidal roof has a less even surface and much more space between each ridge. Each ridge may also vary in height and width.
The brackets used to mount solar panels onto trapezoidal roofs also come in many variations.
Fitting solar panels for this type of roof is similar to that of a corrugated metal roof. The primary goal is to get the mounting brackets fitted perfectly over the ridges, guaranteeing the best possible positioning of the drill hole above the roof’s foundation.
The main significant difference between these solar installations is that trapezoidal ones require a sealant to finish off the job.
How Long Does It Take to Install Solar Panels On Metal Roofs?
The time it takes to install solar photovoltaic panels on metal roofing will vary depending on several factors. A time estimate for installing solar panels for residential properties varies between one and five days, depending on the property size.
Installations will take slightly longer for commercial properties. Permits may take longer to be approved, and the business size may vary. However, a time estimate for solar installation will be around three days to six weeks, depending on whether you have a small (one to seven days), medium (one to three weeks), or large business (three to six weeks).
Some other factors that influence the installation time include:
- Roof condition
- Size of roof
- How many solar panels are being installed
- The complexity of installation
- Weather conditions at the time of installation
- Solar panel size
How Much Does It Cost to Install Solar Panels On Metal Roofs?
In the UK, the cost to install solar panels on a metal roof is estimated to be between £5,000 and £12,000+. These costs exclude batteries or solar inverters.
Batteries cost between £1,500 and £7,000, while solar inverters range from £500 to £1,500. However, solar panel companies usually factor these components into the installation and purchasing costs.
Installation costs will vary depending on several factors, including:
- Roof size
- Property size
- How many solar panels are being installed
- The angle of your roof
- Your energy demands
- Solar panel size
Below is a table to help you understand the costs better.
| House Size | Number of Solar Panels Required | Solar Panel kW Output | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 bedroom | 6 – 10 | 1.5 – 3 | £5,000 – £8,000 |
| 2 bedrooms | 10 – 16 | 3-4.5 | £7,000 – £10,000 |
| 3-4 bedrooms | 16 – 24 | 4.5-6 | £8,000 – £12,000 |
| 5+ bedrooms | 24+ | 6 or more | £12,000+ |
Even though the upfront cost can be expensive, solar panels have a good payback period. They have excellent energy efficiency and can decrease your energy bills significantly.
Are There Other Solar Panel Options for a Metal Roof?
Although a metal roof is ideal for traditional solar panels (mono/polycrystalline), there is another option if you’re looking for an alternative.
Thin-film solar panels
Thin-film solar panels work best on metal roofing, especially standing seam ones.
While mono/polycrystalline solar panels are more energy-efficient, thin-film solar panels offer other benefits that make up for their lower efficiency. These benefits include:
- Less visible than mono/polycrystalline solar panels
- Easier to install
- Lower-emission sustainable energy system
Get A Solar Panel Installation Quote Today
Eco Happy will take care of everything when installing solar panels on your metal roof. Our experienced team offers expert guidance and installation of all types of solar panels. We have helped thousands of businesses and households achieve better energy efficiency and decreased energy bills.
Request a free quote from us today, or contact us if you have any queries. We can’t wait to be your trusted partner in your solar installation.
FAQs
What is the best colour metal roof for solar panels?
White is the ideal colour if you’re installing solar panels on a metal roof. It reflects sunlight, aiding in the energy efficiency of your solar panels. Lighter colours like light grey and aged copper also work well.
What type of metal roof is best for solar panels?
Standing seam metal roofs are the best for solar panels. Unlike corrugated or trapezoidal, clamps can be used to mount the solar panels without making holes in the roof. This means standing seam will be least likely to suffer damage from external factors.
What type of roof is best for solar panels?
Composite roofing is usually considered the best type of roof for solar panels. This is a fairly common roofing material, meaning less specialised equipment and labour are required for the installation, making it more cost-effective.
Our Verdict
Looking at the above factors, it is safe to say that metal roofing is a perfect base on which solar panels can be installed.
The cost of fitting solar panels onto metal roofing will vary depending on factors like your property size, energy demand, the number of panels you need, and the angle of your roof.
Likewise, the installation process and duration will also differ depending on whether your roof is trapezoidal, corrugated, or standing seam.
James Elston
Boiler Expert
James Elston is the top boiler replacement and heating expert at Eco Happy. He has over 20 years of experience in the industry, focusing on Gas Safe boiler installations and offering home-heating and energy-saving solutions to homeowners across the UK. From sourcing the most energy-efficient combi boiler to providing specialist heating advice, James ensures that Eco Happy maintains the highest standards and best customer service.