With environmentally-conscious homeowners finding additional ways to increase their property’s energy efficiency, solar panels have become a popular feature on UK roofs. Harnessing the power of the sun to generate energy, they’re an eco-friendly option for many households.
However, when it comes to maintaining or repairing solar panelled roofs, unique challenges can arise. This includes repairing tiles on a roof equipped with solar panels, which can have issues like limited access and having to work around different components.
Here are some of the complexities when undertaking tile repairs on a solar-panelled roof.
Are roof tiles removed to install solar panels?
How solar panels are fixed will depend on the roof design and the recommendations of your roofing contractor. It’s important to get the position of the panels right to harness solar energy while protecting the structural integrity of the roof tiles.
Solar panels are installed on roofs in various ways. In tiled roofs, the brackets of the panels are usually mounted to rafters underneath the tiles, covering the spaces. If any tiles were removed, they’re often refixed once work is undertaken to ensure a flusher finish. Any broken tiles should be repaired or replaced, but you should talk to your solar panel installer to understand the job requirements.
It’s wise to request a roofing inspection before your solar panel installation to ensure there aren’t issues brewing which could cause further problems down the line.
Can damaged solar panels be repaired?
Just like other roof elements, solar panels can be subjected to various weather conditions, roof problems and airborne debris, resulting in damage. If the issue is minor, some solar panels will continue to operate even if they’re not at their maximum potential. However, you may find the broken panels stop working if the elements continue to cause further damage.
Unfortunately, damaged solar panels will need assessing, and you should always check your warranty to see what’s covered. In many cases, solar panel replacement is required.
How are tiles repaired on a solar panelled roof?
Signs of broken tiles can vary between properties. In some cases, you may have noticed gaps or smashed material on the ground around your home. In other situations, the damage is uncovered during a routine roof inspection or after a leak has occurred.
The repair work requirements and costs involved can only be determined once a roofer has assessed what’s happened. It can be very challenging trying to access tiles underneath the solar panels, especially if the weight of them is what’s causing the issues.
It’s important to stay on top of your scheduled roof inspections, as solar panels can hide a multitude of sins, meaning that concerns like rotting timbers, moisture ingress and missing tiles can go unnoticed for some time. You should never undertake a DIY roof inspection and repairs, as you could make things worse while putting yourself and others at risk. You’ll need to contact an experienced roofing company to carry out the checks.
Need a roof repair quote? Contact us
If you need solar panel roof repairs, contact Radlett Roofing today. We operate throughout Hertfordshire, coming out to St Albans, Stevenage and beyond.
For a free roofing quote, call now on 01923 961055 or email info@radlett-roofing.co.uk.
