Is it okay to lay photovoltaic panels on your own roof

Should I replace my flat roof before installing solar panels?

The majority of flat roofs are made of traditional felt, which has a lifespan of approximately 15 years. So if your flat roof is over 10 years old, it would definitely be worth replacing it before installing solar panels. The same applies if you are planning to build an extension on your home and place solar panels on the flat roof.

Is my roof suitable for solar panels?

If the sun sets in front of you, it’s west-facing; if it sets to the left, it’s north-facing; and if it sets on the opposite side of the property, it’s east-facing. Here's how an installer will decide if your roof is suitable for solar panels, including assessing its direction, usable space, and loft.

Can solar panels be mounted on a flat roof?

This means there are a two different mounting systems to help ensure you get the best out of your solar panels on a flat roof. A mounting system is critical for solar panels on a flat roof, as by using a framing system, the panels can be tilted toward the sun, enhancing their efficiency.

Do you need planning permission to install solar panels on a flat roof?

Thanks to recent changes to permitted development rules, most installations on flat roofs won’t need solar panel planning permission. So long as the panels aren’t visible from the street and don’t exceed 200mm above the roof, they should be covered under permitted development rights.

How long do solar panels last on a flat roof?

Most UK roofs are strong enough to hold solar panels for their entire lifespan – which can last 40 years or more. This is because a solar panel system usually weighs about 20kg per square metre, which the great majority of roofs can hold. However, flat roofs may not always be strong enough for solar panels.

How many solar panels can be installed on a roof?

Your roof will need to be large enough to fit a suitable number of solar panels, as there’s rarely much point putting just two or three panels up there. The average solar panel takes up 2m², and your installer should leave around 40cm on each side of the array, as well as 3cm between every panel.