When meeting with homeowners interested in a solar roofing system, we’re often asked, “what’s the best type of roofing for use with solar panels or solar shingles?”
Before we can accurately answer this question, we need to determine two things: budget and intent.
Budgeting for a replacement roof with solar panels or solar shingles comes down to what a homeowner can comfortably afford, as well as how long they plan on staying in the home — which leads us to intent …
If you’re looking to stay in your home, say, for five years until the kids are out of college and they’ve moved into their own place, it might be wiser to stick with asphalt shingles. They’ll keep your home protected, integrate well with various solar roofing systems, and add value to your home when you decide to sell. That said, if you’re looking to stay in your home long-term, then a metal roofing system is the longer-lasting choice. Of course, with this added durability comes a higher cost, so discussing all of these options with your roofing contractor is advised.
ADDITIONAL FACTORS TO CONSIDER
- Another important factor you’ll want to discuss with your roofing contractor is the expected lifespan of the solar roofing system you’re considering. Solar panels typically last between 25-35 years, while solar shingles typically last at least 30 years.
- GAF asphalt roofing has a lifespan of 20-30 years, and can last considerably longer depending on the type of shingle you choose, and if the roofing has been installed properly (one of the ways to ensure this is to work with a GAF Master Elite installer). It’s important to note that if you go with an asphalt roofing system, the quality of the product needs to be on par with the life span of the solar roofing solution you choose, so the roofing does not wear out before the solar panels/shingles.
- DECRA metal roofing lasts 50+ years, which means the lifespan of this type of roofing will outlast a solar roofing system, so be sure to speak with your roofing contractor about ease of replacing the system down the road.
- No matter who you choose to hire for your roof replacement, it’s a good idea to make sure they are fully insured. And if you decide on a GAF asphalt roofing system, or a DECRA metal roofing system, you can also depend on amazing products and warranties.
- Regarding the ability to add a solar roofing system to an existing roof, a good rule of thumb is that if your roof will need replacement in 10 years or less, get a new roof before adding the solar roofing system.
- Roofing materials like wood shakes or slate tiles are not appropriate types of roofing for a solar roofing solution.
OK, that all said, let’s dive a little deeper into both asphalt and metal roofing, and what you can expect from each type of roofing solution when paired with a solar roofing system …
ASPHALT ROOFING
One look around your neighborhood, and you will quickly notice that asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing solution. This is because asphalt roofing is durable and affordable — plus they are available in a wide array of color and style choices.
If you go with asphalt roofing, it’s important to work with your contractor to choose a high-quality solution, as better-made asphalt shingles work most effectively with solar roofing systems. As mentioned in our last blog post, the GAF Timberline Solar Roofing System is a perfect choice for this type of project.
Note: Asphalt shingles weigh anywhere between 2.5-4 lbs per square foot, which means your replacement roof needs to have the proper reinforcement built into it in order to effectively support the additional weight of solar panels/shingles.
METAL ROOFING
If you already have a metal roof, as long as it’s not too old, there’s a good chance you can add a solar roofing solution to the existing roof. If you’re looking to have a metal roofing system added to your home, you’ll also be in great shape. One of the things homeowners are surprised about is the fact that metal roofing is no longer noisy. With the advent of DECRA’s stone-coated metal roofing systems, metal roofs no longer have the stigma of being noisy as the stone coating makes them considerably more quiet.
That said, the installation of a solar roofing system onto a metal roof requires a different set of skills as opposed to installation on an asphalt roof — which is why it’s important to work with someone experienced for the project.
Note: Metal roofing has a weight of about 1.4-1.6 lbs per square foot, considerably lighter than asphalt roofing, making it an excellent choice for use with a solar roofing system. Because metal roofs are more sturdy, and lighter, than asphalt roofing they often don’t need reinforcement when installing a solar roofing system. That said, it’s always wise to have your roofing tested to ensure it has the necessary reinforcement/strength to add solar panels/shingles.
GET IN TOUCH ANYTIME
Whether you know exactly what you’re looking for, have questions, or would like to schedule a complimentary consultation — with no strings attached — feel free to contact Legacy Exteriors anytime. We’re always happy to help!