Can a flat roof be installed with solar panels?
Many homeowners have needlessly overlooked the possibility of installing a solar energy system within their home because their property has a flat roof.
Solar power has moved on considerably since becoming widely available to domestic customers and there are now specialist solar panels suitable for all types of surfaces – including flat roofs.
Part of the misunderstanding stems from the belief that solar panels must be tilted in order to capture more sunlight; this seems somewhat challenging if the surface you are situating them on is completely flat like a flat roof.
Thankfully, modern solar manufacturers have addressed all such issues in their designs, offering a range of products that can either be mounted horizontally on the flat roof or with a slight tilt.
These products can be mounted on a range of surfaces including membrane or concrete and some varieties can even be mounted on flat roofs without any drilling.
Homeowners will obviously be concerned about whether the installation of solar panels will damage their flat roof. There are non-penetrating flat roof mounts available which are designed to avoiding any penetration of the roof cladding – thus eliminating any risk of damage.
Such products will still be secured against wind suction, tilting and sliding.
The main issue for homeowners considering solar power is to ensure their flat roof is in a good condition prior to installation. If your flat roof is traditional felt and long past its sell-by-date, then consider replacement first this goes for a pitched roof too.
Can I have solar panels installed on a flat roof?
Solar panels can reduce some of the deterioration caused by weather exposure on the area which is covered by the solar panels.
But they are not a solution to these problems and where a flat roof is close to its expiry date or warranty or has encountered a number of leaks then replacement should always be undertaken first.
It will be considerably more expensive to go ahead with the solar power installation only to need the panels to be removed again a year down the line while you buy a replacement roof for either a flat roof or a pitched roof.
Similarly, if you’re building an extension and you’re considering installing solar power to the flat roof structure when it’s completed, talk to a flat roof expert to ensure you install a superior quality solution.
Contrary to popular belief, a flat roof is an ideal location for a solar power installation as it delivers an unobstructed space which can be used to maximise sunlight absorption. Occasionally, it can be cheaper because access is easier than on a pitched roof.
If you’re interested in solar energy for your flat roof, why not consult a flat roof expert to undertake a maintenance check first to see whether repairs or replacement are needed prior to going ahead with the project?
We hope our article on ‘Can I have solar panels installed on a flat roof’ has answered any queries you may have had regarding solar panels on a flat roof.
