It creates the appearance that the home was designed with solar power in mind, creating a low-profile style that is often used on new home designs when solar energy is predetermined. Many homeowners also choose inset installations because of the overall look. Like other roof replacements that are a part of the solar installation process, the costs associated with solar-necessary upgrades of comp-outs may be eligible for the Solar Investment Tax Credit. What are the benefits of an inset solar panel installation? This creates the aesthetically pleasing appearance of the solar array being built into the roof. Accidental harm to composite shingles that could lead to a compromised roof is unlikely, particularly in comparison to the potential of inadvertent damage to fragile lightweight tiles.Īfter solar installation on the composite shingles is complete, the area around the solar array is filled in with the previously removed tiles. Next, a solar expert installs the solar array on the composite shingle surface. Transitions are reinforced with sheet metal called flashing and sealed to ensure the roof is completely waterproof.
Tile roofs install#
How do you install solar panels on tile roofs?Ī preferred technique utilized to install SunPower’s highly efficient solar panels on a lightweight tile roof is called an inset solar installation, sometimes referred to as a “comp-out.” This process will add additional steps and costs to your solar project but will give you long-term durability and help prevent potential damage to your home.ĭuring this process, a roofing professional removes the existing tile roof from the area where the solar array will be installed and lays new composite shingles in its place. Because lightweight tiles are fragile, vibrations that occur from wind passing between the panels and the racking system sitting on top of the tiles can result in future incidents. If this method of installation is pursued and solar panels are successfully mounted without tile breakage, there is still a possibility of issues down the road. Although this method may work for heavyweight tiles, lightweight tiles that are not removed are still at risk. Some solar installers will choose to remove individual tiles and replace them with special tile replacement mounts. Drilling through these tiles may also result in damage to the base layer of your roof called the underlayment, which is used for extra protection below tiles or shingles. Breaks or cracks can occur during the solar installation process, potentially compromising roof integrity and leading to leaks and other damage to your home. While they may hold up well against harsh weather, these tiles are not designed to withstand the stress of added pressure. Have you ever tried to walk across your tile roof to complete a repair or maintenance? Chances are, you might've damaged a few of these tiles in the process because they are brittle and can break easily.Īttempting to install solar panels directly on top of a lightweight tile roof is inadvisable. Tiles weighing less than nine pounds per square foot are classified as lightweight tiles. The following three shapes are typically associated with this style of tile- “W,” “S” or flat tile. What is unique about solar installations on lightweight tile roofs?Ĭement and clay tile roofs, sometimes known as Spanish tile or terra cotta tile, are commonly found in the west and southwest United States. Here are a few things you need to know before adding solar energy to your tile roof. For example, lightweight tile roofs can present unique challenges and considerations for a solar installer. Various roof types require different installation processes.
When you’re ready to install solar panels on your home, there are many factors that will determine the unique design and cost of your SunPower solar system.
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