Before installing solar panels, your roof must be ready to support them for the next 25 years or more. That means evaluating not just the condition of your roof, but also the type of roofing material it’s made of. Some materials make for easier, safer, and more cost-effective solar installations than others.
Here’s everything you need to know about which roofing materials are best suited for solar energy systems.
Why roofing material matters for solar
Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years. If your roofing material doesn’t have a comparable lifespan or creates installation challenges, you could face unnecessary costs down the road. The ideal roofing material for solar should:
- Be durable and long-lasting
- Be compatible with common mounting hardware
- Require minimal disruption during installation
- Support the weight and spacing of the solar array
Top roofing materials for solar installation
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Asphalt shingles (composite shingles)
Asphalt shingles are by far the most common roofing material in the U.S. and among the most solar-friendly. They’re easy to work with, widely compatible with racking systems, and affordable to repair or replace.
Pros:
- Cost-effective
- Easy to penetrate and seal during install
- Generally lasts 15-30 years
Consider: If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, consider re-roofing before installation.
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Standing seam metal roofs
These roofs are ideal for solar because panels can often be mounted without drilling holes. Mounting brackets simply clamp onto the raised seams, reducing the risk of leaks.
Pros:
- Can last 40-70 years
- Highly durable and weather-resistant
- Requires no roof penetrations
Consider: Initial roofing cost is higher, but the longevity and install ease can offset that.
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Tile roofs (clay or concrete)
Solar can be installed on tile roofs, but the process is more complex. Tiles must often be removed and replaced to install mounting brackets.
Pros:
- Long lifespan (up to 50+ years)
- Popular in hot, sunny climates
Consider: Tile is brittle and more prone to breakage during install. Labor and installation costs are typically higher.
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Flat roofs (TPO, modified bitumen, or EPDM)
Flat roofs can support solar through tilt-up racking systems that angle panels toward the sun. These setups are common in commercial buildings and some modern homes.
Pros:
- Flexible design options
- Easy access for cleaning and maintenance
Consider: Requires structural evaluation to ensure load support. Ballasted racking systems may be needed.
Roofing materials to avoid or assess carefully
Wood shingles or shakes: Fire risk and fragility make them poor candidates for solar.
Slate roofs: While long-lasting, slate is extremely brittle and difficult to work with. Specialized labor is required.
Old or deteriorated roofs: If your roof is near the end of its life, it’s best to replace it before installing solar to avoid future removal and reinstallation costs.
How Sky Solar Pro evaluates your roof
During your free consultation, we assess your roof’s:
- Material type and condition
- Structural integrity
- Age and estimated remaining lifespan
- Slope, orientation, and shading
If your roof isn’t ideal, we’ll recommend affordable upgrades or re-roofing options to prepare it for solar. We can even bundle your roof replacement and solar system into one streamlined project with combined savings.
Final thoughts
Your roof is the foundation of your solar investment. Choosing the right roofing material – or upgrading at the right time – ensures your system performs efficiently, safely, and without costly interruptions.
Thinking about solar but unsure if your roof is ready? Book a free site evaluation with Sky Solar Pro and we’ll walk you through your options.
