What should I rebuild my roof with?
June 19, 2012 10:03 AM Subscribe
I'm torn between just putting up asphalt shingles or splurging on a metal roof. Hoping to get recommendations on materials with a mind to efficiency and environmental sustainability. Also, who should I contact to plan a more efficient roof/home in Hamilton/Greater Toronto Area? What would be the best roof for planning a solar MicroFIT project?
Just bought a house in Hamilton, ON that needs a new roof. From what I've managed to google, the best time to plan a solar roof is while rebuilding a roof anyway. We do have capital available to do a substantial renovation which could include doing a metal roof. The roof is approximately 1100 sq ft.
Is a metal roof any better for solar panel installations?
We usually have pretty hot muggy summers and cold winters (though snowfall in Hamilton is nothing compared to other parts of Ontario). Is there a good case for a metal roof in this climate?
The 1 quote we have so far for the fancier 25-year shingles is $6600 because we need to tear off the 4 layers of old shingles. Other than the poor condition of the top shingle layer, the roof boards look to be in good, strong condition.
Just bought a house in Hamilton, ON that needs a new roof. From what I've managed to google, the best time to plan a solar roof is while rebuilding a roof anyway. We do have capital available to do a substantial renovation which could include doing a metal roof. The roof is approximately 1100 sq ft.
Is a metal roof any better for solar panel installations?
We usually have pretty hot muggy summers and cold winters (though snowfall in Hamilton is nothing compared to other parts of Ontario). Is there a good case for a metal roof in this climate?
The 1 quote we have so far for the fancier 25-year shingles is $6600 because we need to tear off the 4 layers of old shingles. Other than the poor condition of the top shingle layer, the roof boards look to be in good, strong condition.
Best answer: oh hey I just got back from a roofing presentation.
Yes, the best time to plan for a major installation of something (like solar) is while you're already planning work in that area. You won't have to tear it up twice.
Shingles are generally the cheapest option. Metal is much more expensive, but when properly installed(emphasis here), lasts longer. The paint tends to degrade and look bad after a while, though.
Installing the solar will be easier on a shingled roof, but with some planning you may be able to find a system compatible in dimensions/stanchion and seam placement with your metal roof.
Don't bother with a white roof unless you are planning on doing solar - the payback at your latitude probably isn't worth it, unless you need to prevent the solar panels from overheating.
I have never seen using PV panels AS the roofing material. I would recommend against it, as sealing, loading, and replcement all become issues, along with icing, water infiltration and replacement. Notice how all of their pictures are of awnings and shade structures.
MOST IMPORTANT: Water is what destroys roofs. Work with a good, compotent, reliable roofer to ensure sealant, flashing, draining and membrane systems are all installed well. Generally, the material holds up - it is the installation that gets messed up.
Shingle work it is generally easier to find good people, since there is a lot more of it.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 11:59 AM on June 19, 2012
Yes, the best time to plan for a major installation of something (like solar) is while you're already planning work in that area. You won't have to tear it up twice.
Shingles are generally the cheapest option. Metal is much more expensive, but when properly installed(emphasis here), lasts longer. The paint tends to degrade and look bad after a while, though.
Installing the solar will be easier on a shingled roof, but with some planning you may be able to find a system compatible in dimensions/stanchion and seam placement with your metal roof.
Don't bother with a white roof unless you are planning on doing solar - the payback at your latitude probably isn't worth it, unless you need to prevent the solar panels from overheating.
I have never seen using PV panels AS the roofing material. I would recommend against it, as sealing, loading, and replcement all become issues, along with icing, water infiltration and replacement. Notice how all of their pictures are of awnings and shade structures.
MOST IMPORTANT: Water is what destroys roofs. Work with a good, compotent, reliable roofer to ensure sealant, flashing, draining and membrane systems are all installed well. Generally, the material holds up - it is the installation that gets messed up.
Shingle work it is generally easier to find good people, since there is a lot more of it.
posted by the man of twists and turns at 11:59 AM on June 19, 2012
Did you see this recent thread?
From what I can infer, you can ignore that 25 year warranty. These warranties are prorated, so if your roof gives in after 12 years, they only owe you half a roof, or maybe only half the shingles--they'll charge you to take off the old shingles and install the new ones. It's like mufflers. Read the fine print.
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 12:33 PM on June 19, 2012
From what I can infer, you can ignore that 25 year warranty. These warranties are prorated, so if your roof gives in after 12 years, they only owe you half a roof, or maybe only half the shingles--they'll charge you to take off the old shingles and install the new ones. It's like mufflers. Read the fine print.
posted by weapons-grade pandemonium at 12:33 PM on June 19, 2012
Metal roof is essentially better in every way except cost when compared to asphalt singles. It lasts much longer, is 100% recyclable, the run off isn't contaminated with asphalt, snow slides off it easier and it is more wind resistant. It is a lot more money however; especially for products that disguise their "metal"ness. However you'll probably never have to replace a standing seam metal roof; most come with 50 year warranties.
The good news is if you've already got four layers of shingles (Four!) stripping them off and going to metal would probably save you enough weight that you could install your solar panels without significant structural work.
posted by Mitheral at 8:41 PM on June 20, 2012
The good news is if you've already got four layers of shingles (Four!) stripping them off and going to metal would probably save you enough weight that you could install your solar panels without significant structural work.
posted by Mitheral at 8:41 PM on June 20, 2012
This thread is closed to new comments.
posted by psycho-alchemy at 11:05 AM on June 19, 2012