Can Solar Panels be Installed on any Type of Roof? Here’s What to Know

Solar panels offer many fiscal and environmental benefits. When installed properly on your roof, they can significantly reduce electricity bills while helping protect the planet. Even better? Solar panels can be installed on almost any type of roof—as long as there's access to sunlight. Whether your home has asphalt shingles, tile, wood, or metal roofing, solar is a smart and sustainable home upgrade.

What Types of Roofs Can Solar Panels be Installed On?

Short answer: most of them!

While some materials require a more complex installation, solar panels can generally be adapted to work on nearly any roof. Below is a breakdown of the most common roofing types and what to expect with each.

Asphalt Shingles

Cost-Effective and Straightforward

Asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material in the U.S., making them an ideal candidate for solar. Installers drill into the roof’s existing structure (typically the rafters) and secure the mounts, which hold the solar panels in place. The process is relatively simple and budget friendly.

Clay and Slate Tiles

Beautiful but Fragile

Solar panels can be installed on tile roofs, but it’s a more delicate and costly process. Because clay and slate tiles are brittle, individual tiles must be carefully removed during installation. Flashing and custom mounting hardware are used to ensure a secure fit. These additional steps make this one of the more expensive options for solar.

Non-Tiled Concrete Roofs and Rubber Roofs

Flat Roofs with a Modern Twist

Flat concrete or rubber roofs—often found on modern homes, condos, and commercial buildings—can be great for solar. Instead of drilling, installers typically use a ballast system: a weighted rack that holds the panels in place and tilts them toward the sun for maximum efficiency.

Wood Shingles

Durable, but Requires Care

Wood shingles can support solar panels similarly to asphalt roofs, but because wood can be more brittle, extra caution is needed. Panels are mounted with drilled attachments, but improper handling can cause cracking. It's essential to hire experienced professionals familiar with working on wood roofs.

Metal Roofs

Durable and Solar-Ready

Metal roofs are highly compatible with solar. If the roof has standing seams, solar mounts can be clamped directly onto the seams, no drilling required. Corrugated metal roofs, on the other hand, require drilled mounts, which are then sealed to prevent leaks.

What is the Best Roof Design for Solar Panels?

While certain materials may be more installation-friendly, there’s no single “best” roof type. Solar panels can be successfully mounted on most residential rooftops as long as there’s sufficient sunlight. Orientation and pitch matter more than material.

Should I Replace My Roof Before Installing Solar?

If your roof is nearing the end of its life—particularly if it’s over 20 years old—it’s smart to replace it before installing solar. This avoids the cost of having to remove and reinstall the system later.

According to the U.S Department of Energy, coordinating roof replacement with solar panel installation can save you money and extend the lifespan of your system.

Are There Any Roofs That Won’t Work for Solar?

Yes—but very few.

Extremely steep roofs (above 40°) like those on A-frame homes are difficult or impossible to install on due to safety and efficiency concerns.
Heavily shaded roofs won’t produce sufficient energy, regardless of material. If your roof receives little direct sunlight year-round, it may not be viable for solar.

Let SunPower Help You Go Solar

At SunPower, we’re committed to helping homeowners reduce their energy costs and environmental impact. Whether your roof is brand new or a few years old, we’ll assess your home’s solar readiness and walk you through every step of the process.

We look forward to working with you!