The post Types of Roofs and Solar Panels appeared first on UK Construction Blog.

As a homeowner, there are ways you could make your power efficient, eco friendly and to top it off save on more than just your energy bill. A good roof and solar panel system is a great way to complement that for your home! Where and how do you start? This guide will help you to buy the best roof and solar panel system to power your home.

Roof Types: The Foundation for Solar

The type of roof material and shape (roof pitch) you choose will affect how long and well your solar panels work and how easily they can be fixed. Let’s see some common examples of roof types.

Metal Roofs

Metal roofs are strong and can stand the test of time. In most cases, you will need fewer mounting materials. These give solar panels a solid foundation.

Tile Roofs

You can find this type of roof in clay and concrete.  They give your roof a classic look and are great for warm climates. The only downtime is they can be challenging to work with and could need special mounting brackets. But if you have no problem spending the extra cash, they are a good option.

Flat Roofs

A flat roof is another option for your home. It is often used by commercial buildings and allows you to install panels at optimally facing angles.

Choosing the Right Solar Panels

Now that you know the basic roof types, let’s check out the different types of solar panels available.

Monocrystalline Panels

Monocrystalline panels are created from a single crystal structure. They are space-efficient and high-performing. This type of panel is typically used for residential solar installations.

Polycrystalline Panels

Polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments. They are typically less expensive than monocrystalline panels, although generally less efficient.

Thin-Film Panels

Thin-film panels are lighter, flexible, and suitable for unconventional surfaces and mobile installers. Although they are easier to install than crystalline panels, their efficiency is relatively less than them.

The Perfect Pair: Matching Roof Types with Solar Panels

Each roof material matches with solar panels differently, here’s a breakdown of some suitable possibilities:

Metal Roofs and Thin-Film Panels

The smooth surface of metal roofs is a perfect accompaniment to thin-film panels. They are lightweight, decreasing how many racks are needed to stabilize the panels in place.

Tile Roofs and Polycrystalline Panels

Polycrystalline panels are the cost-effective option for your tile roof. Proper racking can maintain a streamlined look while providing ample energy output.

Tips for Homeowners to Ensure Successful Solar Panel Installation

Maximizing Solar Efficiency

Deciding upon battery storage for solar panels adds several benefits to your home. It stores excess energy produced on sunny days when the weather isn’t so kind to be used during nighttime and sunny periods. It essentially gives you constant power, saving you money on your electricity bill.

Considering Roof Longevity

In addition to the type of panels, the condition of your roof is a crucial factor to consider. If your roof is due for repair soon, get that done before having panels installed. Otherwise, you will have to remove and then reinstall the solar tiles.

Environmental and Financial Benefits

Having photovoltaic panels on your roof is good for the Earth. They provide you with clean renewable energy while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. But that’s not all. Government incentives (rebates, tax credits, and more) make owning a solar system a good buy.

Developing an energy-efficient home starts with deciding the best pairing of roof type and solar panels. From knowing the different types of roofs to considering battery storage for solar panels, there is a lot in between for the homeowner to consider.