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Whenever customers opt for solar panels over solar shingles the underlying roofing materials should be matched to meet the applications needs. Using a long lasting roofing material will save costs over the long run. Costs savings are not just in maintenance, but also the reduction of future problems. Because solar installations are an investment in future savings, it only makes sense to use a roofing material that will reduce the total costs over the life of the roof. Metal roofing is the cost effective material of choice. Longer Life According to Rob Haddock at METALCON, metal roofing is considered to be the best cost-saving platform to mount solar panels because metal roofing can outlast photovoltaic systems by 20 to 30 years. In fact, certain types of metal roofing like Galvalume steel roofs have a service life of 50 to 60 years. Most crystalline based photovoltaic systems are only serviceable or operational for 20 to 30 years. This means you will most likely only replace your existing roof one time in your lifetime. Ron Dutton at METALCON states that the Metal Construction Association is founding a study on the longevity of Galvalume standing-seam roof systems. The study focuses on Galvalume roofing systems across various climates for quantitative analysis. According to the study, early results are showing that the service life far exceeds the 60 year standard assumption. The study will complete sometime in 2013. Eco-Friendly Metal roofs have additional advantages over other roofing types for solar panel systems. Metal roofs can and are made from recycled material. Instead of filling landfills, this material is reclaimed, treated, and reused in the roofing process. Checking with your local municipalities will open tax savings opportunities when you use recycled materials that meet local requirements. Low Maintenance Metal roofing is also relatively maintenance free. This is due to the durability of metal roofing. Metal roofs are durable enough to withstand high wind and hail. A main advantage of metal roofing over other roofing materials; when combined with photovoltaic systems, solar panels can be mounted without any roof penetration. This prevents leaks and maintains a consistent water tight barrier between the interior of the home and the environment. Design Flexibility Metal roofing system can also designed to fit almost any kind of insulation requirements. Meaning that even in your building has different insulation materials and depths; metal roofing can be molded and fabricated to match. Additionally, metal roofing is a great choice in water harvesting or collection systems. Because metal roofing is highly resistant to corrosion is makes an ideal platform to channel rain runoff. Focus on contamination reduction when choosing the specific type of material used in metal roofing. In any rainwater collection system, contaminant reduction is just as important as how much water will be collected. A dual purpose roofing system, both solar and water systems can save a tremendous amount of money over the life of your roof. Combined with low maintenance, durability, and design flexibility, metal roofing is the best choice for solar panel and photovoltaic systems. David Schulte is the president of Schulte Roofing and has served Bryan-College Station, Houston, Brenham and the surrounding areas for over 18 years. To learn more about Bryan roofing companies, visit their site at: http://www.schulteroofing.com
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Bryan roofing, Schulte Roofing, Metal roofing, solar panels,
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