Sunlight Exposure

One of the fundamental factors influencing the feasibility of solar panels on your roof is the amount of sunlight your property receives. Solar panels generate the most energy when they are in direct sunlight, so homes with unobstructed access to the sky throughout the day are ideal. If your roof is heavily shaded by trees, nearby buildings, or other obstructions, it may impact the efficiency of the solar panels. That said, don’t forget that your roof normally has more than one side – if the back, say, is overshadowed, the front might still be the ideal spot for panel installation.

Roof Orientation

The orientation and slope of your roof play a crucial role in maximising solar energy absorption. South-facing roofs typically receive the most sunlight in the UK, while north-facing roofs don’t usually see sufficient sunlight. East and west-facing spaces can be suitable because they get plenty of sunlight in the morning or evening.

The Slope of Your Roof

The way your roof is pitched can make a difference. The ideal roof is angled between 30-50 degrees, which is a moderate slope, but anything close to this would also be fine. If the pitch is more angular, fitting solar panels becomes more challenging because additional framing is required to position the panels at an optimal angle facing the sun. The same can be said of flat roofs, and this means extra work and a bit more cost.

Roof Condition

Before installing solar panels, it’s essential to ensure that your roof is in good condition. Solar panels have a long lifespan (usually 25 years or more), so it’s practical to have a roof with a similar or longer lifespan. If your roof requires repairs or replacement soon, it’s advisable to address these issues before installing solar panels to avoid complications down the road.

Available Roof Space

The number of solar panels required to power a typical UK home will depend on the home’s energy demands. A single solar panel is around 1.6  to 2 square metres in size and has a power output of between 250 and 400 watts each. To achieve 3 to 4 kW, approximately 20 – 25 square metres of space is needed. Dormer windows and other architectural features will affect the available space. Multiple systems can be linked to provide the output needed, so the panels could be spaced across the roof to work around obstacles.

Roofing Materials

Roof tiles come in various materials, such as slate, clay, concrete and asphalt. Clay and slate are more fragile, so extra care must be taken when installing solar panels and additional framing might also be required. There are very few materials that will prevent the installation of solar panels, but the work involved to fit the equipment will alter accordingly. The weight of the roof must also be taken into consideration; some structures cannot take the additional weight of solar panels without reinforcement.

Listed Buildings

Regular buildings do not usually need planning permission for solar panels. In the case of listed buildings or buildings within a conservation area, however, there are additional rules and restrictions to be aware of. You may have to ask permission, and if it is granted, there may still be additional rules to abide by. For instance, it’s common that the panels must not be visible from nearby roads. To avoid costly errors, it’s advisable to check with the authorities before work commences if you think you live in a sensitive area.

Future Expansion Plans

Consider any future plans for home expansion or renovations. If you anticipate changes to your property, discuss these plans with your solar provider to ensure the solar panel system can be adapted or expanded accordingly. Remember that panels have a lifespan of more than 25 years, so wherever possible, futureproof your investment.

Final Thoughts

When you’re looking into getting solar panels, one of the first steps is to ensure your roof is suitable for them. A careful assessment of various factors is required, from sunlight exposure to local regulations. While not every home may be perfectly positioned for solar energy, advancements in technology and flexible installation options make solar panels a viable option for a growing number of homeowners. 

Is your home ready to bask in the glow of solar power? With the right considerations and expert guidance, you may discover that your home is perfect for a brighter, more sustainable future powered by the sun.