from Steve in Stratford, WI :
#223
What is the best roofing to put in prior to installing solar cells?
A long-lived roof to accommodate racking without holes in the roof.
I would vote for a long-lived roof that can accommodate the solar module racking (what attaches the panels to the roof) well. Another thing to consider is minimizing the number of holes put in the roof to reduce leaks. Standing seam metal roofs work well since S-5 clips can be used to easily mount racking onto the seams without piercing the panel, which means no punctures in the roof and also reduced mounting costs.
If this isn’t an option or you want to go with something else, then use another long-lived roofing option. For example, an asphalt shingle with a long-term warranty. No matter the roofing material, an experienced solar electric installer will know how to work on all roof types and can use techniques that eliminate the possibility of leaks. Ask your installer how the solar electric system affects your roof warranty.
If your roof will need to be replaced in the near future, you may want to combine its replacement with solar panel installation to avoid the cost of removing and reinstalling your solar electric system.