Metal Roofing & Solar Panels: Benefits, Costs, and FAQs

Metal roofing is growing in popularity each year, with the market being expected to reach over $5 billion by 2027.

More and more households throughout North America are becoming conscious of their impact on the environment while also figuring out that metal roofing is actually cheaper than asphalt shingle roofing in the long run.

As a metal roofing contractor in Kingston with extensive experience working roofs in our harsh climate of eastern Ontario, I’ve got to know really well why and how metal roofing is the best type of roofing for homeowners, especially those considering solar!

Let’s go over what exactly is metal roofing, common types, benefits, costs, and, finally, why it is the best option for those looking to install a solar panel system on their house or business.

Jump to a section:

• What is Metal Roofing?
• Benefits of Metal Roofing
• Metal Roofing Costs
• Metal Roofing Types
• Metal Roofing and Solar
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

What is Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing consists of panels, tiles, or even shingles made from various metals, mostly steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. The most common types we install are steel and aluminum, which come with protective coatings that prevent rust and are pretty lightweight, especially aluminum. 

Unlike asphalt shingles, they have a complete protective barrier that can withstand very bad weather, like storms and heavy snow.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

Eco-friendliness

So metal roofs contain up to 95% recycled content and they themselves are 100% recyclable at the end of their life. Unlike asphalt shingles that often end up in landfills, metal roofing materials can be repurposed indefinitely.

Additionally, their reflective properties can reduce cooling costs by up to 40%. Solar panels have a similar cooling effect, but instead of reflecting sunlight, they turn it into electricity!

Durability

If you’re in a storm-prone area like Florida or Texas, this is for you. Metal roofs withstand 140 mph winds, have a Class 4 hail resistance rating, and a Class A fire resistance rating.

What do these ratings mean?

For starters, metal roofs can take a hit of a 2-inch steel ball falling from 20 feet without any damage. Then, Class A fire resistance is the highest one there is, with a flame spread rating of anywhere between 0 and 25, meaning that the materials are very unlikely to burn and add fuel to the fire.

Longevity

We regularly advertise that a properly installed metal roof can last 40-70 years. Some types, like zinc, can last even longer (100+ years). This longevity plays well with solar panels, which are typically warrantied for 25 years. With your metal roof expected to outlast your solar system, you don’t have to worry about uninstalling/reinstalling your solar panels in order to replace your roof.

This long lifespan also comes with minimal maintenance, meaning only the basic annual cleanups and very, very rare repairs.

Metal Roofing Costs

Now, here’s the part you’ve been waiting for. Metal roofing costs $12-$25 per square foot installed, compared to $5-$10 for asphalt shingles. 

A complete metal roof installation on an average 2,000-square-foot home usually ranges from $24,000 to $50,000. 

These costs vary this much because of the:

• Material choice (steel vs. aluminum vs. copper)
• Installation method (standing seam vs. exposed fastener)
• Roof complexity
• Local labor rates
• Necessary underlayment and insulation

Yes, it is more expensive than asphalt, I know, but note that one metal roof lasts as much as two or even three asphalt roofs.

In the long run, it pays off when you also count the energy savings and any potential rebates.

Metal Roofing Types

Here are the most popular types of metal roofs.

Standing Seam

A preferred choice of many because of its longevity, featuring concealed fasteners and clean lines. While more expensive, it has great water resistance and easy, almost nonexistent maintenance.

Exposed Fastener Panels

A more economical option we often recommend for outbuildings or budget-conscious homeowners. It requires more maintenance due to exposed screws.

Metal Shingles

Popular among homeowners wanting metal’s benefits while maintaining an old-school look. These are usually prominent in historic districts where standing seams might look too modern and not fit in.

Metal Roofing and Solar

Standing seam metal roofs are very solar-friendly, as panels can be attached directly to the seams without penetrating the roof surface. This brings down the installation costs and gets rid of leak points. There are also methods for mounting solar panels on metal shingle roofs and exposed fastener roofing panels, such as Tile Replacement Mounts and SnapNrack Straddle Blocks.

Also, metal roofs can extend the life of solar installations by eliminating the need to remove and reinstall panels for roof replacement.

And last but not least, metal roofs shed snow, which is great for solar system’s efficiency.

 

 

Metal Roofing FAQs

Is a metal roof noisy during rain? 

This is a myth. With proper insulation and underlayment, which any contractor should always include in installations, metal roofs aren’t louder than other roofing materials. 

In fact, the attic space and insulation play bigger roles in noise levels than the roofing material itself.

Do metal roofs attract lightning?

Another myth — metal roofs don’t attract lightning any more than other materials. In fact, metal roofing can help disperse the electrical charge if lightning does strike.

Will snow slide off metal roofs dangerously? 

In snow-prone areas like Ontario, we always recommend installing snow guards to control snow movement. These prevent snow avalanches and keep the roof functioning well.

So, Should You Install a Metal Roof?

Of course, you may think I’m biased, but yes, you should! They’re an excellent investment for homeowners planning to stay in their homes long-term. 

Again, yes, the upfront cost is higher, but the durability, longevity, and reduced maintenance requirements make metal roofing a cost-effective choice over the long run.

And if you’re considering pairing them up with a solar system, then it’s most definitely worth it for you with its eco-friendly aspects, energy efficiency, and long-term savings benefits.