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TOPIC: Warranties

Any tips for use with Solar Panels?

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I am interested in installing Photovoltaic (PV) panels on my home's roof. I currently have a 4 year old asphalt shingle roof. I was concerned that the "20 to 40 year lifetime" of my panels would exceed my 20 year rated roof, and result in substantial costs to temporarily remove the PV panels to install a new roof. I got a tip to look into stone coated steel roofing. It looks interesting, but one tip I picked up from this site is to be careful about walking on a steel roof. It sounds like only carefully planned subsections of the roof will be made for walking on. Does this mean that the initial install and any maintenance of my PV system roof top elements will probably result in damage to the steel roof? Also, are there any other things you can recommend for me to be aware of or do with respect to using a PV system on a steel roof? Thanks.
Guest User

8/2/2003
Most metal roof systems, with minimal care, can be successfully walked without causing damage. When heavy foot traffic will occur, planks or other protective material can be put down on top of the roofing first. Make sure that you talk with your roofing manufacturer for details on how to walk on their product as well as for details on attaching PV panels. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

8/4/2003
I have 8 solar panels on my shingled roof, I want to install a metal roof, can my solar panels be installed on a metal (key west) roof ?? I have yet to see it !?? thanks tj
Guest User

6/2/2004
This can be done. By "Key West" I assume you are referring to a through-fastened roofing panel such as 5V Crimp. In that case, the solar panels can be fastened through the roof panels and into the decking beneath. There can be various methods of attachment vased upon the profile of the roofing. I suggest whenever possible getting the roofing manufacturer's input on proper attachment. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

6/4/2004