Have Questions About Solar Panels on a Tile Roof?
Recently at Elite Roofing and Solar, we’ve gotten questions from some homeowners about the possibility of installing solar panels on a tile roof. For a time, this was regarded as too risky to be worth it, and many homeowners with tile roofs now continue to believe they can’t go solar. On the other side of the equation, it can be difficult to find a company willing to install solar panels on a tile roof.
However, the truth is more complicated than that. In fact, solar panels can be added to tile roofs, but there are several considerations to keep in mind for these projects regarding the type of tile and the company you choose to complete the installation. So today, we’re taking a closer look at solar and tile and shedding some light on this topic.
Solar Panels Can Be Installed on a Tile Roof
The bottom line is this: solar panels can be installed on a tile roof. However, the risks vary depending on the exact type of tile roof you have. For example, lightweight tiles (less than nine pounds per square foot) are more prone to breakage than heavier tiles. The added pressure from roof mounted solar panels, as well as the walking and drilling required for installing a solar array, can result in lightweight tiles breaking, leaving your roof exposed to the elements.
Because solar installers aren’t roofers, they’re typically less adept at maneuvering on a tile roof without breaking tiles, and many installers will refuse such projects to avoid compromising your roof.
Roofing and Solar Is the Solution
At Elite Roofing, we often talk about the benefits of a partnership between a roofing company and a solar provider. While solar providers are experts in solar installation, roofers can help ensure your roof is solar ready before installing panels—and that your roof wasn’t damaged during installation.
These benefits are magnified when it comes to installing solar panels on a tile roof. Scheduling a roofing inspection before installing your solar array will ensure that your tile roof is in excellent condition beforehand. If you’re due for a tile relay soon, this can be done before installing solar panels to avoid the difficulties of working around a solar array.
Where this relationship really shines is in the post-installation inspection. Our expert roofers can thoroughly inspect your tile roof to replace any broken or damaged tiles, fully restoring your roof to perfect health and providing greater longevity for both your roof and your solar system.
Cost Considerations for Solar Panels on a Tile Roof
Even with this solution, it should still be mentioned that solar installations on tile roofs will typically cost more. This is because tile breakage is inevitable even when working with an expert roofing company.
However, the cost savings from a new solar array will still add up over time, typically repaying the cost of the project and then some. What’s more, an expert roofing company like Elite will be able to warranty any repaired portions of your roof and care for your tile roof throughout the remainder of its lifespan.
Elite Roofing and Solar: Your Tile Roof Solar Provider
At Elite Roofing, we pride ourselves on our roofing expertise covering all materials used throughout the roofing industry. This includes the care and maintenance of tile roofing, one of the most aesthetic and energy efficient materials on the market.
If you have a tile roof and you’re looking to go solar, Elite Roofing can make it happen! Between our roofing expertise and the renowned solar experts at SunPower, you get the best of both worlds when you work with us for your solar installation. Schedule your solar consultation today!
