Best Roof Materials for Solar Panels in Colorado: Tips from the Pros Before You Install
From shingles to metal, see which roof materials are solar-friendly in Colorado—and how to prep for a seamless installation.
Best Roof Materials for Solar in Colorado: Pro Tips Before You Install
When you’re planning to install solar panels, your roof isn’t just the foundation—it’s part of the game plan. At Solar Power Pros, we’ve spent over 12 years installing residential solar and commercial solar on Colorado rooftops, from classic asphalt shingles to modern metal. The good news? Most Colorado roofs can host a high-performing solar system.
Below, our Pros break down the best roof materials for solar panels and some common FAQ’s so you’re fully equipped to make the right call for your home.
Not sure if your roof itself is a good candidate for solar? Check out our guide: Is Your House a Good Fit for Solar Panels? We’ll cover key factors like roof angle, orientation, and lifespan.
Best Roof Materials for Solar Panels
Mounting Solar Panels on Asphalt Shingle Roofs (Most Common)
Asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in Colorado, and they’re ideal for solar installations. For these roofs, our crews install a mounting bracket that requires a small penetration through the shingles. To prevent leaks, we use industry-leading flashing and sealant systems to fully waterproof each connection point. Our methods are tested, proven, and backed by both our workmanship warranty and manufacturer warranties.
Why it’s a top choice: Affordable, common, and long-lasting when this material is properly maintained.
Mounting Solar Panels on Concrete Tile Roofs
Tile roofs require precision and a careful touch. Our highly experienced Pros meticulously lift each individual tile, install the specialized mounting hardware beneath, and then replace the tiles exactly as they were to preserve both the original look and the roof’s waterproof integrity. This approach ensures that your roof remains fully protected against the Colorado elements while allowing your home to take full advantage of solar energy. Because tile is heavier and more delicate than other materials, this step-by-step process is essential to prevent breakage and maintain the long-term durability of your roof.
Why it’s a top choice: Tile is an exceptionally durable roofing material, often lasting 40–50 years or more with proper care. Tile also has classic curbside aesthetic.
Mounting Solar Panels on Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are solar-friendly champions! What’s even better? No roof penetrations are needed for this durable material. We use specialized clamps that attach directly to the standing seams of the metal panels, making for a clean, secure, and completely watertight install.
Why it’s a top choice: This material offers a 40+ year lifespan, minimal maintenance, and is an eco-friendly option.
Mounting Solar Panels on Flat Roofs (Membrane like EPDM, TPO, PVC)
Flat roofs are typically found on commercial buildings or modern homes, where we use ballast systems–weighted racks or mechanically attached mounts, depending on the structure and roofing material. This allows us to tilt the panels at an optimal angle for solar exposure and drainage. These systems are designed to be low-impact and highly durable.
Why it’s a top choice: Membrane roofing allows flexible panel placement and minimal roof impact.
Roof Materials That Aren’t Suitable for Solar
- Wood Shake – Flammable and hard to work on
- Slate – Brittle and prone to cracking
Upgrading to a solar-ready material ensures a smooth install and lasting performance.
Alternative Solar Installation Options
Ground-Mount Solar Systems
If your roof isn’t ideal, call in our Pros to design and install a ground-mounted solar array. This allows us to place your solar panels in the best location on your property for maximum sun exposure and energy production. Ground mounts are an excellent solution for properties with available land and limited rooftop options.
Why it’s a top choice: With available space, ground mounts can be installed with perfect tilt and orientation for total placement control.
Custom Solar Carports for Commercial Properties
For businesses, multi-family complexes, and other commercial properties, custom-designed solar carports offer a powerful two-in-one solution. These structures serve as both a solar array and a shaded parking area, perfect for improving customer and employee comfort while generating clean energy and reducing utility bills.
We custom-engineer each carport system based on your site’s layout, energy goals, and structural needs.
Why it’s a top choice: Whether you’re looking to enhance curb appeal, meet sustainability goals, or offset demand charges, solar carports are an excellent way to turn open pavement into productive energy.
Roof Materials Q&A
Do I Need to Replace My Roof Before Going Solar?
If your roof is in good shape and has plenty of life left, you may not need to replace it. Here’s our rule of thumb:
- If your roof is within 5–10 years of needing replacement, it’s best to handle that before solar installation.
- Metal and tile roofs often last long enough to match or exceed your solar system’s lifespan.
- If your roof material isn’t solar-friendly (wood shake, slate), replacing it first is the smart move.
Pro Tip: If you need roof work after your solar panels are installed, our Pros can remove and reinstall your solar panels. We work in sync with your roofer on timing so your whole project goes smoothly. Need a roofer recommendation? Just ask.
| Roof Material | Avg. Lifespan* | Ease of Install** | Leak Risk (with Pro install) | Notes for Solar |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asphalt Shingle | 20–30 yrs | Easy | Low | Most common & cost-effective |
| Concrete Tile | 40–60 yrs | Moderate | Low | Long lifespan, heavier material |
| Standing Seam Metal | 40–80 yrs | Easy | Low | No penetrations needed |
| Flat (EPDM, TPO, PVC) | 15–50 yrs | Moderate | Very Low | Requires tilt brackets |
| Wood Shake | 20–40 yrs | Difficult | High | Not recommended |
| Slate | 60–150 yrs | Difficult | High | Not recommended |
*Average lifespan may vary depending on climate and maintenance.
**Ease of install assumes experienced solar professionals and refers to compatibility with solar mounting systems.
Can Solar Panels Damage My Roof?
When installed correctly, solar panels should not damage your roof—no matter the material. In fact, panels often protect the shingles or metal beneath them by shielding from sun, snow, and hail.
That said, the risk of damage depends on two factors:
- Material Type – Asphalt shingles and standing-seam metal roofs are easiest to work with and rarely present problems. Tile, slate, and wood shake roofs are more fragile and require extra care during installation.
- Installer Expertise – A licensed, experienced installer knows how to mount panels without voiding your roof warranty or compromising waterproofing.
Pro Tip: Choose a proven, experienced installer who is familiar with your roof type. With professional installation, panels are not only safe for your roof—they can actually extend its life.
Do I Need a Special Mounting System for My Roof?
The short answer: sometimes. It depends on your roof’s material.
- Asphalt Shingles – Standard racking with flashing and waterproofing works perfectly.
- Standing Seam Metal – Panels can be clamped directly onto seams—no roof penetrations required. This makes it one of the most solar-friendly options.
- Tile or Slate – Specialized mounting hardware is needed to avoid breakage. Sometimes individual tiles are replaced with flashing or hooks to hold the racks.
- Flat Roofs (EPDM, TPO, PVC) – Instead of drilling, ballast systems (weighted racks) are often used. These minimize penetrations and keep your warranty intact.
- Wood Shake – Rarely recommended, since it’s brittle and a fire risk. A reroof is usually the better option before going solar.
Pro Tip: Mounting technology has advanced a lot in recent years. Even less common roof materials have safe, tested solutions—but the right choice always comes down to your roof type and condition.
Your Objective: A Roof That’s Solar Ready
Every home or business is different—part of our free custom solar assessment is designed to determine whether you have the best roof materials for solar panels. Along with evaluating your roof’s material, we also consider its age, angle, orientation, your energy needs, and aesthetic preferences to create a system that delivers maximum savings and long-term performance.
With Solar Power Pros, you get:
- Ranked top Colorado solar installer by EnergySage
- Veteran-owned, locally operated in Denver
- Best warranties in the industry
- Installations by trained W-2 employees—not subcontractors
