Solar Metal Roofing
Why we believe that Metal Roof with Solar is the most practical, and sustainable option for residential Solar PV installations?
In the next two weeks we will have a complete guide to designing a beautiful, long-lasting Metal Roofs with integrated Solar PV technology. Watch this video and read on:
The main problem associated with general Solar PV systems that you can now see on many homes around the country, is the fact that an asphalt shingles roof will fail much sooner than the Solar panels, and when that happens, those home owners will be faced not only with re-roofing expense, but also with complete removal of solar array and re-installation. This MUST be performed by both the roofer and the solar integrator, as the roofer alone will 99% of the time screw things up. And bear in mind that roofing warranty will usually not cover demages to the solar equipment, let alone all the possible short-circuit type situations.
The additional cost associated with these procedures should be at-least the same as the cost of the new roof itself. Think about it: Electricians unlike roofers have to be licensed. Apprentice electrician needs at-least 4 years of schooling/work experience. This is like an undergraduate degree. Master electrician needs another 4 years. Therefore, electricians usually charge $75-100 per man-hour. You’ll need at least two electricians for this job, which will take a whole day to remove the panels and another day to put them back, if not more.
The math is simple: 2 guys * $75/h * 8 hrs. * 2 days = $2400 plus any possible parts and supplies that may be required. So let’s say it costs you $2500 extra. In some parts of the country that is how much an average 1200 sq. ft. cape house roof will cost today with the material.
Metal Roofs vs. Asphalt shingles
Unlike very “popular” asphalt shingles, metal roofs are pretty much permanent. They are for the most part, produced from recycled metals, and when installed by a trained professional, should not leak for decades. Read more about residential and commercial metal roofing .
Metal roofs combined with Renewable Energy technologies can create a perfect combination of light, long-lasting and affordable solution for Solar Electric and Solar Hot Water, as demonstrated in the image to the below:
There are other numerous benefits to having metal roof combined with Solar PV and other renewable energy technologies. When looking at metal roof vs. asphalt shingles, also consider that metal roof will save our land fills from getting more shingles dumped there in 10 years or so. Combined with beautiful looks, you get a permanent roofing solution, various solar technologies, and when paired up with geo-thermal system, you can easily design a 100% energy-free home, with a great curb-appeal.
Check back in a couple of weeks for a complete Solar Metal Roofing Guide.
September 04 2008 06:16 pm | Renewable Energy
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