Solar thermal systems – producing hot water and/or central heating support need panels and these panels are usually fixed to a roof. What follows below are details of the options that you as a consumer will have.
Standard Tiles
There is no such thing as a standard roof tile but here we mean the flat rectangular tiles which can be made from clay or cement. The panel frame can be connected to the supporting roof timbers and usually for an on roof fit this needs no more than lifting the tile, fitting the roof hook or roof fitting, adjusting it for length and putting back the tile. This happens four times which creates the anchor points for the solar panel frame.
For in roof systems the tiles are simply removed the frame fitted leaving a gap above the timbers (so that the metal frame will not cause condensation on the timber frames). The panels are placed in the frame and flashings seal around the frame.
Pan tiles
In some parts of the country Pan Tiles provide a beautiful flowing roof. One tile is fitted concavely with its partner fitted convexly.
Slate roofs
Slates provide a superb natural roofing material which can last for hundreds of years. They are usually pinned to roof timbers and we do not recommend moving slates for on roof systems.
Slates are very thin compared to tiles. This will mean removing slates and replacing the area of slates removed with solar panels.
Zinc and Metal Roofs
These have special fixings so that the roof is not damaged and the fixings meet the approval of all major metal roof manufacturers so that your roof guarantee will not be affected.
Flat roofs
Flat roofs can be ideal for solar because it will usually be possible to position the panels perfectly so that they face due south at the best angle to optimise the collection of energy from light.
