Can solar panels be installed on a commercial roof?

If you're considering installing a residential or commercial solar panel system, you might wonder if your roof type is appropriate for a solar installation. The good news is that solar panels can be installed on just about any roof type, but the installation process and mounting hardware might vary from material to material.

Which roof is best for solar panels?

No one type of roof is best for solar panels – mounting solutions exist for just about every roof out there. Some roofs will cost more to mount solar panels on. This is due to the different equipment installers need to use. Start comparing customized solar quotes today on the EnergySage Marketplace.

Can you install solar panels on a flat roof?

Ballast systems are simply a weighted racking setup that holds solar panels in place. If you need to drill into your flat roof to install solar panels, don't worry – your solar installer will ensure that the holes they drill are as small as possible and sealed correctly to avoid roof damage or leaking. Can you install solar panels on wooden roofs?

Do solar panels work on metal roofs?

Depending on the type of metal roof you have, installations will differ slightly, but the big takeaway is that solar panels work well on metal roofs. If you have a standing seam metal roof, your solar installer won't have to drill holes in your roof, as panel mounts can be clamped to the raised seams.

How do you install solar panels on a metal roof?

To install solar panels on a metal roof, the racking system and solar panels are secured with bolts attached to the rafters. A piece of flashing is placed underneath the shingles to prevent leaking. Standing seam metal roofs are ideal for solar panel installation.

Can solar panels be installed on a wood roof?

Like asphalt shingles, installing solar panels on a wood or cedar roof mainly consists of drilling into a roof stud and slipping flashing under the wood pieces to prevent leaking.