Metal Roofs: The Perfect Match for Solar Panels

By Marco Industries.

Network with solar companies to boost business.

There are many types of roofing materials out there: from tile to the ubiquitous composite roof. Not all of them are ideal as a base for installing solar panels. Metal, however, is. And as a metal roof installer, you should be touting the benefits a metal roof has for those considering roof-mounted solar panels.

Since metal is considered the most environmentally friendly and sustainable roofing material available, the target market for metal roofs and solar panels overlap. The people who appreciate that metal roofs are 100% recyclable and are made with a minimum of 25% recycled material, depending on the type of metal, are the same potential customers who would be interested in the energy savings of solar panels. Because of that, it would be smart to partner with local solar panel companies—sharing customers and referrals. It would likely lead to more inquiries for both businesses.

When talking to customers (or a potential solar panel partner), point out the main benefits of pairing solar panels with a metal roof.

Installation

Mounting solar panels on a metal roof is easy. While installers may have to drill holes in other types of roofs to attach the mounting hardware, they won’t have to on a standing-seam metal roof. That means quicker installation and no worries about causing leaks.

Options

Standing-seam metal roofs are an ideal surface for installing thin film solar. That means the homeowner will have an option versus the standard silicon photovoltaic (PV) solar panels that are installed on most homes.

Durability

Even though solar panels are extremely durable and can be expected to last 25 to 30 years, the metal roof below it should last longer. That means no hassles with a roof replacement that requires the extra cost of disassembling and the reinstalling the solar panels.

Cooling

Solar panels will shade any roof surface, helping to cool it and increase energy savings. A metal roof, however, already reflects more sunlight than traditional black asphalt shingles, so parts not covered by the panels will still help with providing a cooler roof and reduced energy usage.

For anyone seeking a more eco-friendly home or building, metal roofs and solar panels are attractive options. As a metal roof installer, networking with local solar panel companies could be a smart business move. Of course, you’ll only want to work with reputable companies doing quality work. The solar companies will want the same. So, in addition to pointing out the natural partnership of metal roofs and solar panels, don’t forget to promote the quality workmanship you provide and the superior materials you use, like solutions from the Marco Weather-Tite™ System. They will appreciate your attention to detail and recognition of the benefits using only the best brings to your customers.

To learn more about Marco, visit www.MarcoIndustries.com. To contact Marco directly, you can email them here or call 1-800-800-8590.