Switching to solar power is an excellent way to reduce your energy bills and lower your
carbon footprint to be more sustainable and planet-friendly, while also future-proofing your
home. But what if your roof is flat?
While it may seem challenging, installing solar panels on flat roofs in the UK is entirely
possible—and can even offer some advantages. Here's everything you need to know to
make your flat-roof solar installation a success.
Why can flat roofs be great for solar panels?
Flat roofs often get a bad reputation for solar installations, and some solar companies tend
to avoid them due to perceived challenges.
The truth is flat roofs are a viable option for solar installations when handled by skilled
professionals. Companies that are equipped to manage the unique challenges of flat roofs
can turn these projects into opportunities, as flat roofs often allow for more flexible designs,
quicker installation, and lower visibility impact.
● Flexibility in panel placement: Unlike sloped roofs, flat roofs can actually allow for
greater flexibility in orienting your panels to capture maximum sunlight.
● Hidden panels: Solar panels on flat roofs can often be less visible from the street,
preserving your home’s aesthetic.
● Faster Installation: Although the design process is more important and more
complicated, the actual installation on flat roofs is generally quicker and easier.
What to consider before installation
Structural Integrity:
Your roof must be able to support the weight of the panels and any mounting systems. We can organise a structural survey to assess load capacity if required.
Make sure that your installer has fully taken into account the location of your building,
the size and height of the roof and even whether you are in the town or countryside. All of these things affect the design of the system. You don’t want your panels to
blow off the roof in high winds.
Sunlight Exposure:
This isn’t unique to flat roofs, but it’s always important to ensure there are no
obstructions, like nearby buildings or trees, that could shade your panels.
You need gaps between the rows of solar panels on a flat roof so that one row of
panels doesn’t shade the other.
Panels on flat roofs often need to be tilted to optimise sunlight capture. We use a
Tilted Mounting System where panels are installed on mounting frames to ensure
they can be positioned at the ideal angle.
Roof Material:
Flat roofs made of materials like felt, asphalt, or EPDM need a careful approach to
avoid damage during installation. Make sure your installers take this into account.
We generally use a Ballasted System, where the panels are secured with weights,
avoiding the need to penetrate the roof.
Water Drainage:
Make sure your installers have confirmed that they have checked that the panels
won’t obstruct your roof’s drainage system, as this could lead to pooling and leaks.
You don’t want your new amazing green energy solution creating issues on your roof.
How to Get Started
1. Choose the Right Installer:
Choosing the right installer is always critical. Unfortunately, there are a lot of cowboy builders
or companies looking to provide less-than-perfect installations or one size fits all installations
that won’t provide you with the solution you really need.
● Look for a company with experience in flat-roof installations.
● Ensure they are accredited by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).
2. Plan Your Layout:
Work with your installer to design a layout that maximises efficiency, loading requirements,
wind uplift and ensures compliance with local regulations.
3. Secure Permissions:
Flat-roof installations may require planning permission, depending on the height of the
mounting system and your location.
Red flags to watch for
When interviewing installers, make sure you look out for those that provide:
● Unrealistic Promises: Avoid installers who guarantee excessively high returns or
claim you won’t need to adjust your lifestyle to maximise savings.
● Lack of Credentials: Always verify that your installer is certified and has relevant
experience.
● Poor Reviews: Research reviews and testimonials to ensure past customers were
satisfied with their installations.
● Cheap Solutions: In this space, you shouldn’t need to overpay but cheap deals are
never great in the long run. You want a solution that is going to last you 15+ years
and that requires a quality installation.
● Loads of Panels: if one installer is promising a lot more panels than other installers,
check they have carried out a proper design and aren’t installing more panels than
the roof can fit or support.
What success looks like
● Optimised Efficiency: Panels facing the right direction and spaced correctly to capture
the most sunlight possible.
● Seamless Integration: A system that does not interfere with roof drainage or
aesthetics.
● Long-Term Savings: Clear reductions in energy bills with a payback period that aligns
with your financial goals.
Solar panels on flat roofs can be an effective and attractive solution, offering flexibility and
efficiency when done correctly. By taking the time to understand your options, choose the
right installer, and plan thoughtfully, you can enjoy the benefits of clean, renewable energy
for years to come.
If you’re ready to start your solar journey or want advice tailored to your unique home,
YEYW is here to help. Our team specialises in providing personalised, high-quality solar
solutions designed to power your life and your future. We’re here to make your home
powerful!
Book a free discovery call here https://www.yourenergyyourway.co.uk/contact-us
Comments