Photovoltaic panels are increasingly being installed on metal roofs. Metal roofing is very suitable for PV installations – it is lightweight, has a long service life and, when the right mounting system is used, allows solar panels to be securely attached. Before installation, however, it is important to consider not only the type of photovoltaic panels, but above all the type and condition of the metal roofing, the load-bearing capacity of the roof structure, the mounting method and the correct installation of all details.
Is a Metal Roof Suitable for Photovoltaics?
Yes. Photovoltaic systems can be installed on practically all common types of metal roofing:
trapezoidal metal sheets,
metal roof tiles,
standing seam roofing,
Click panels.
However, each type of roofing requires a different mounting method.
PV on Trapezoidal Metal Sheets
Special mounting components and aluminium profiles are used for trapezoidal metal roofs. Correct positioning of the fixing points and proper sealing of all connections are particularly important.
The installation must take into account the roof structure and the distribution of loads caused not only by the panels themselves, but also by wind and snow.
Photovoltaics on Standing Seam Roofs
Standing seam metal roofing is a particularly attractive solution for combination with photovoltaic systems.
Special clamps are available for standing seams and are attached directly to the seam. With a suitable mounting system, the structure can therefore be installed without unnecessary drilling through the main surface of the roofing.
This helps maintain the watertightness of the roof and also makes it easier to remove the photovoltaic panels in the future if necessary.
PV on Click Panels
Photovoltaic systems can also be installed on roofs made from Click panels. However, choosing the correct mounting method is particularly important.
A Click panel is not the same as a conventional trapezoidal metal sheet, so the same mounting system should not automatically be used. The installation solution must correspond to the specific type of panel and the roofing manufacturer’s recommendations.
Consider Photovoltaics When Designing a New Roof
If you are building a new house or planning a complete roof renovation and already know that you want to install photovoltaics in the future, we recommend taking this into account during the roof design stage.
It is possible to plan in advance:
the type of metal roofing,
the load-bearing structure,
the position of the panels,
fixing points,
cable routing,
roof penetrations,
the location of the inverter and battery storage.
As a result, the final installation can be simpler, safer and more aesthetically pleasing.
Check the Condition of an Older Metal Roof
Before installing a PV system on an older roof, we recommend checking the condition of the roofing first.
Photovoltaic panels can operate for decades. Therefore, it makes little sense to install a new photovoltaic system on a metal roof that may require complete renovation in just a few years.
In such a case, it may be more economical to replace the roofing first and install the PV system afterwards.
Correct Mounting Is Essential
One of the most important details of the entire installation is the way the mounting structure is attached to the roof.
Incorrect installation can cause:
water leakage around fixing points,
damage to the protective coating of the metal,
deformation of the roofing,
problems caused by thermal expansion of the metal,
reduced roof service life.
The mounting method should therefore always be selected according to the specific type of metal roofing and roof structure.
Don’t Forget Ventilation Under the Panels
Photovoltaic panels should not lie directly on the roof covering. Sufficient space must remain between the panels and the roof to allow air to circulate.
Proper ventilation helps dissipate heat while also allowing water and debris to drain away from the roof.
A Metal Roof and PV System Can Work Together for Decades
High-quality metal roofing has a long service life, making it an excellent base for a photovoltaic system.
The key is to coordinate the expected service life of the individual components. If you are planning both a new roof and a PV system, it is worth considering both projects together and taking future photovoltaics into account when selecting the roofing material.
Planning a New Metal Roof and Photovoltaics in the Future?
At Roofer.cz, we offer metal roofing, trapezoidal metal sheets, Click panels, standing seam roofing and a complete range of accessories for metal roof installations.
When choosing your roofing material, it is a good idea to know in advance whether a photovoltaic system will be installed on the roof. This makes it possible to choose the right type of roofing and prepare the roof so that the future installation and use of photovoltaic panels is as simple as possible.
At Roofer.cz, we offer metal roofing, trapezoidal metal sheets, Click panels, standing seam roofing and a complete range of accessories for metal roof installations.
When choosing your roofing material, it is a good idea to know in advance whether a photovoltaic system will be installed on the roof.
