Solar panels for tile roof

Solar panels for tile roof

Tile roof is a not verdict for your dreams of a solar system. While the installation is slightly more difficult than usual, solar panels will do great on your house and provide it with clean energy for decades. In this section, you can find solar panels for tile roof. 

Can you put solar panels on a tile roof?

Yes, solar panels can be installed on a tile roof. However, the installation process might be slightly more complex compared to other roofing materials due to the fragility of tiles. It's important to work with experienced professionals who are familiar with tile roof installations to ensure proper mounting without damaging the tiles. Mounting systems and flashing techniques designed for tile roofs are available to securely attach the solar panels while maintaining the integrity of the roof. Proper installation and sealing are crucial to prevent leaks and ensure the longevity of both the solar system and the roof.

Do solar panels work well on a tile roof?

Solar panels work amazingly on a tile roof — provided that they are installed correctly. To ensure optimal performance, safety and longevity, you have to consider several factors:

1. Weight and Load Distribution: Tile roofs are heavier than some other roofing materials, so it's important to evaluate the structural integrity of the roof to handle the additional weight of solar panels. Reinforcements might be needed to evenly distribute the load. Don’t forget that the angle and orientation of a tile roof impact the efficiency of the solar panels. To maximize energy generation, panels should be positioned to capture the most sunlight throughout the day.
2. Fragility: Tiles are more fragile than other roofing materials like asphalt shingles or metal. Installing solar panels on a tile roof requires a delicate touch to avoid cracking or damaging the tiles during installation and maintenance. Solar panel mounting systems designed for tile roofs are essential. Proper flashing and sealing techniques must be employed to prevent water leaks.
3. Cost: Installing solar panels on a tile roof is more labor-intensive due to the delicate nature of the tiles. The installation takes longer and the tile roof solar panels costs are going to be higher compared to other roofing materials.

Pros and cons of solar panels for tile roofs

Tile roofs have their benefits and drawbacks when it comes to putting solar panels on top of them. Let’s start with the positives that tile roofs have:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Tile roofs are often considered more visually appealing than other roofing materials. The integration of solar panels with tile roofs can lead to a more seamless and aesthetically pleasing appearance compared to other roofing types.
2. Durability: Tile roofs are known for their durability and longevity. They can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy rain, wind, and hail, which can provide a protective barrier for the solar panels installed underneath.
3. Insulation: Tile roofs have natural insulating properties that can help regulate temperature and reduce energy consumption in your home. This can complement the energy-saving benefits of solar panels.
4. Long Lifespan: When properly maintained, tile roofs can last for decades, often exceeding the lifespan of the solar panels. This means you might not need to worry about roof replacement while the solar panels are still functional.

No matter how you cut it, tile roofs are a difficult case when it comes to installing solar panels. Let’s look at the drawbacks that having a tile roof has for solar enthusiasts:

1. Installation Challenges: Installing solar panels on a tile roof can be more complex and time-consuming compared to other roofing materials. Each tile needs to be carefully removed and replaced to install the mounting hardware, which can increase installation costs.
2. Weight: Tile roofs are heavy, and adding the weight of solar panels, mounting hardware, and other equipment can further stress the structure. Engineering assessment might be required to ensure the roof can support the added weight without compromising its integrity.
3. Fragility: While tile roofs are durable, the tiles themselves can be fragile. Walking on the roof during installation or maintenance can risk damaging the tiles. This could potentially lead to water leakage and other issues if not handled properly.
4. Maintenance Difficulty: Routine maintenance and repairs of solar panels on a tile roof, as well as the roof itself, can be more challenging. Accessing the panels for cleaning or maintenance may require extra care to avoid damaging the tiles.
5. Cost: Tile roof solar panels price can be more higher due to the complexity of the installation process. Specialized mounting hardware and additional labor might be needed, driving up the overall cost compared to installations on simpler roofing materials.

3 Best solar panels for tile roof

Our engineer has picked a few wonderful models that will do great for a residential PV system. You can find a variety of tile roof solar panels for sale at A1 SolarStore. Reach out to our managers for more information about prices, shipping, and warranties.

REC Alpha Pure Black

REC 400W Alpha Pure Black solar panel is ideal for large-scale commercial use or residential rooftops. With an impressive 21.9% efficiency and 20.1 W per square foot power density, it maximizes space utilization. Heterojunction cell technology ensures performance even in high temperatures. Its minimal 0.25% annual output loss and 92% production retention after 25 years are backed by a triple 25 warranty. 

Q Cells Q.PEAK DUO Black ML-G10

Experience superior performance and extended lifespan with Q Cells Q.PEAK DUO Black. Utilizing half-cut cell technology, these smaller cells minimize energy loss and enhance shade tolerance. With an impressive 20.4% efficiency, it optimally harnesses sunlight. Q CELLS ensures durability, guaranteeing a minimum of 86% performance after 25 years. Benefit from their 25-year promise to repair or replace any issues that may arise.

Canadian Solar HiKuBlack

The HikuBlack solar panel from Canadian Solar showcases cutting-edge technology for optimal efficiency and reliability. Utilizing Passivated Emitter Rear Contact (PERC) and half-cut cell tech, it captures 12% more energy with a reflective back layer, enhancing photon absorption. With cells half the size, power loss is minimized, bolstering low-light performance. With 19.7% efficiency, it offers remarkable output for its size. The all-black design adds unmatched aesthetics, making it a great tile roof solar panel. Canadian Solar backs it with a 25-year performance and product warranty.