You may be interested in subsidizing your home energy usage by implementing a solar panel system, but lack the necessary space for a ground-mounted system. In a scenario such as this, you can opt to install a solar panel system on your roof. Fortunately, your existing roof is most likely solar-panel friendly – although some roofing materials are better suited for the task than others. We’ve outlined the most appropriate roofing materials for solar panel systems below.
Asphalt & Solar Panels
The most commonplace variety of roofing material; asphalt shingles are known to be the one of the best options for a solar panel system. Asphalt shingles are manufactured from fiberglass and cellulose making them relatively durable.
The installation process of a solar panel system on an asphalt roof is fairly straightforward – drill studs into the roof and attach solar panel mounting to those studs. In order to prevent moisture from seeping into your home and causing damage or triggering the proliferation of mold and mildew, the studs should be sealed with flashing.
Metal & Solar Panels
Comprised of standing seam panels, metal roofs are exceptionally durable and possess a lifespan that can exceed fifty years. Due to the inherent strength of metal, it is extremely resistant to a host of inclement weather such as heavy snowfalls, high winds, wildfires and lightning. As a bonus, metal roofs are 100% recyclable and depending on the paint and coating applied, they can reflect up to 90% of the heat from the sun.
Standing seam metal panels are an ideal canvass for solar panel installation as they don’t require drilling in order to attach them. Usually, the solar panels are attached directly to the standing seam panels and don’t require any further involvement.

For a complimentary inspection call us or request a free estimate.
CLICK NUMBER TO CALL
Clay or Slate Tiles & Solar Panels
Clay and slate tiles are renowned for their iconic aesthetic the world over, but with beauty comes the price of steeper costs and longer installation times. Clay and slate tiles last up to and beyond fifty years as well as being 100% recyclable and eco-friendly.
Although clay or slate tiles are viable candidates for solar panel installation, the process is a little bit more involved. In order to prevent damage, pre-existing tiles necessitate removal prior to installation of a solar panel system. Furthermore, the “feet” of the solar panel must be fastened directly to your roof to ensure that they are securely attached.

Solar Panel Installation
Solar panels can be a wonderful addition to the infrastructure of your home, but while most roofs are capable of solar panel installation, the process differs depending on the roofing materials. Asphalt and metal roofs don’t require removal of pre-existing shingles or panels, while clay or slate tiles do. In order to safely and correctly mount solar panels, it’s best to hire a professional who will understand the necessary steps that need to be taken, depending on the type of roof you have.
About Rapid Roofing
Our mission at Rapid Roofing is to provide a stress-free, refreshingly simple, world-class roof installation experience for our customers in Long Island, NY. We look forward to protecting you. With over 110+ 5 star reviews on Google, you can trust the expert roofing contractors at Rapid Roofing to replace your roof on-time and within budget.
For a quick, no-obligation estimate on your next roofing project, fill out our estimate form!
