You’ve done the research, seen the energy savings, and are considering switching to solar power. But can your roof handle the weight and installation process?
Concrete and clay tiles are popular materials used for roofs in the UK and are common when installing solar panels. Their durability and longevity mean that they can hold the extra weight and match or exceed the lifespan of your solar system.
While concrete and clay are popular, this isn’t the case for all roofs. There are plenty of other materials to consider, as well as other factors that affect whether or not your roof is ideal for solar panels. We explore these topics in more detail and help you quickly determine if your roof is the right type for a solar panel installation.
Considering a solar installation? Get expert advice at Going Green Renewables. Our accredited solar installers will assess your roof and walk you through your options.
Can solar panels be installed on any roof?
Solar panels can be fitted to many roof types, including tiled, asphalt shingle, metal, and even flat roofs. But they’re not suitable for every roof. Other specifics, like size, shape and angle, come into play.
Generally, for a 3-bedroom house, you’re looking at installing around 10 solar PV panels or 3.5kW. This size solar panel system requires around 10 to 20 square metres of clean roof space.
Some roofs, such as thatched or glass, become a safety hazard due to weight and fire risks.
Roof types and suitability at a glance
| Roof Type | Solar Panel Suitability |
| Asphalt Shingle | ✅ High |
| Metal | ✅ High |
| Flat | ✅ High |
| Tile (Clay and Concrete) | ✅ Moderate |
| Slate | ⚠️ Low |
| Complex Architecture | ⚠️ Low |
| Poor Condition | ❌ Unsuitable |
| Glass | ❌ Unsuitable |
| Thatch | ❌ Unsuitable |
Roof types suitable for solar panels
Most roofs in the UK support solar PV systems. Some may require a little more installation work than others.
Tile roofs
- Clay and concrete tiles are popular for residential properties
- Solar panels are mounted with special tile hooks
- More complex installation compared to asphalt and metal roofs
Asphalt shingle roofs
- Mainly used on garages and outhouses in the UK
- Easy installation using standard mounting brackets
- Durable and cost-effective
Metal roofs
- Used on commercial buildings and modern homes
- Standing seam metal roofs allow for easy installation without drilling
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
Flat roofs
- Common for commercial and some modern residential buildings
- Tilted mounting racks can alter the panel positioning (flat solar panels or tilted)
- No drilling required as ballasted systems can be used
Roof types that may not be suitable for solar panels
Some roofs aren’t suitable, whether that’s due to the material they’re made of or simply because the roof is old and in poor condition.
Slate roofs
- Fragile material that can crack or break during installation
- Requires experienced installers familiar with slate mounting systems
- More expensive type of installation and more time-consuming
- May not accommodate all types of solar racking systems
Glass roofs
- Unable to hold the weight of solar panels
- Limited or impossible installation methods
- No easy way to securely fit the panels
Thatch roofs
- Huge fire risk due to flammable materials and electrical systems
- Not compatible with standard mounting systems
Roofs with complex architecture
- Dormer windows, skylights, chimneys, and roof vents can limit usable space
- Irregularly shaped roofs make it harder to align panels
- Architectural features may cast shadows on panels, preventing solar production
- Complicated mounting means more labour time and costs
Roofs in poor condition
- Weak or damaged roofs can’t support the weight of solar panels and mounting hardware
- Higher risk of complications or further damage to the roof
- Older or worn-out roofs should be repaired or replaced before installing a solar array
What other factors make a roof suitable for solar panels?
Roof material isn’t the only thing that makes your roof a good fit for solar panels. Roof pitch and orientation are key factors in determining how suitable your house is for solar panels and how much electricity they will produce.
While most homes in the UK can support a solar PV system, south-facing roofs are generally preferred because they receive the most direct sunlight throughout the day. Other orientations are still suitable – east-facing roofs get the morning sun, and west-facing roofs get the evening sun.
The pitch of your roof (its angle) is important for how much of this sunlight your solar panels can absorb. Ideally, your solar cells should be angled at 30˚ and 40˚ to absorb as much sunlight as possible. Many UK roofs fall into this category, but those that don’t are still fine with the help of adjustable mounts.
Looking for expert solar panel installation? Get in touch
Reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bills by investing in solar.
Our accredited installers fit solar panels on various properties. We’ll assess your home and whether your roof is suitable and answer any questions you may have about the installation process or how much you could save.
What if your roof isn’t suitable? We’re experts and provide many alternative solutions, including ground-mounted solar panels or standalone solar batteries.
Call Going Green Renewables on 01252 560 587, or build your free quote today.
FAQs about installing solar panels on a roof
Do I need a new roof before installing solar panels?
As long as your roof is in good condition, with a decent lifespan, and is made from suitable materials (asphalt, metal, or tile), it won’t need replacing. Our professional solar installers will assess whether your roof is suitable and how many solar panels it can hold.
Will solar panels damage my roof?
Generally, solar panel installations do not damage a roof when they are done properly, which is why it’s so important to work with experienced, certified installers.
Read more about our background, accreditations and memberships.
How long will my roof last with solar panels installed?
Your roof’s lifespan shouldn’t change drastically once solar panels are installed. It all depends on the roof’s condition and materials before the installation takes place. If your roof is damaged or really old, we recommend getting it fixed or replaced before investing in solar panels.
You may also be interested in: