fbpx

☀️ Yes, solar panels can be installed on a slate roof, but it requires a different installation technique.

☀️ Due to the different installation required it costs 30% more than an installation on a standard roof.

☀️ The savings on your electricity bill will normally more than make up for this higher price point.

Solar panels are becoming more and more affordable as their prices drop, which is great for anyone who wants to cut down on their electricity costs, especially with the cost-of-living crisis in the UK.

But before you get solar panels, you need to check if your roof can support them.

In this guide, I’ll explain how an MCS Certified Installer will install solar panels on a slate roof, how much it will cost, and what solar choices you have to think about before you proceed with installing solar panels on a slate roof.

Slate roof with dormer window

Can solar panels be installed on a slate roof?

Yes, solar panels are compatible with slate roofs.

You can see many examples of this on slate roofs across the UK, as well as on other kinds of roofs.

But it should be noted that slate roofs require more time, care, and attention for solar panel installation than other roof types.

How are solar panels installed on a slate roof?

This is how an MCS Certified Installer usually installs solar panels onto a slate roof.

To be sure, ask each solar installation company that quotes you if they will follow the proper steps for this kind of solar project.

Don’t try to do it yourself – it’s risky, costly, and may invalidate your warranties and your Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Scheme income for your surplus solar energy.

1. Remove the tiles

On a slate roof, hammering flashing and brackets would ruin or crack the tiles.

So, your installer will take out the required tiles carefully, with a hammer, a slate ripper, and maybe tin snips.

They’ll slide the ripper under each tile and hook around a nail that holds the tile to the roof, then pull it out by striking the ripper’s handle with a hammer.

They might also use this method to detach the tile, then remove the nails with the hammer’s claw.

2. Affix the flashing

Your MCS Certified Installer will fix flashing to your battens – the wood structure of your roof – to prevent water from entering or leaking through your roof.

3. Install the mounting brackets

They’ll then attach the mounting brackets to your roof with standoffs, to lift the mounting brackets from the surface.

4. Reattach the tiles

The MCS Certified Installer will saw the slate tiles they took out to fit them around the mounting brackets and avoid any holes in your roof.

5. Add the solar panels

They’ll finish the normal procedure of putting the solar panels on the mounting brackets, locking them, and linking the solar inverter to the solar panels and your consumer unit (or fuse board or box).

All skilled MCS certified solar panel installers can do these steps easily. Remember always choose a MCS Certified PV Installer.

Does it take longer to put solar panels on a slate roof?

Yes, solar panels on a slate roof take more time to install.

Your MCS certified installer will need about five days to install the complete solar PV system, while most standard roofs take just one or two days.

More time means higher costs, which I’ll discuss in the next section.

How much does it cost to install solar panels on a slate roof?

A standard UK 3-bedroom house with solar panels on a slate roof costs between £10,000 – £13,000 on average depending on the number of solar panels you have installed.

This is 30% higher than the usual UK price of between £7,500 – £10,000 for solar panels on a standard roof of a 3-bedroom property.

The extra cost is due to the labour and tools needed to remove, cut, and put back the slate tiles without breaking them, which is a skill and requires knowledge and experience to do well.

But solar panels on a slate roof are still a good investment. You can save about £500 a year on your electricity bills and pay off the cost in 19.5 years – and then you’ll enjoy free energy from your solar panels for years to come.

Are there other solar panel options for a slate roof?

You may want to explore other methods of installing solar panels on your slate roof. We have all the top options for you.

We’ll explain each of them, below.

1. Integrated solar panels

Integrated solar panels fit on a part of your roof without tiles, so they match your other tiles.

They resist weather, water, and are as durable as normal roof tiles – and they look better than solar panels on brackets.

The installation is easy, and standard panels cost the same as mounted panels.

But they produce 3% less solar energy than regular panels, so they have lower returns for the same price.

2. Solar roof tiles

Solar roof tiles look like normal tiles and make electricity like solar panels.

But you need to change your whole roof to get solar tiles.

Solar tiles cost 85% more than solar panels and are much less efficient than the best solar panels.

3. Replace all your slate tiles

Another option is to change your tile type and redo your roof.

Asphalt shingles or metal roofs are easier for solar panel installation.

Metal roofs with standing seams are handy, because installers can fix solar panels without making holes.

This option may cost the most, but it’s a good idea.

Conclusion

With all the information above , you’re now ready to proceed with your solar installation on your slate roof. But remember to check suitability, weigh the pros and cons, and get professional help.

Feeling motivated and ready to make your slate roof useful? Want to learn more? Your best option is to talk to one of our friendly solar energy experts on 01268 928 690 or click on the ‘Enquire Now’ button below and we will help you find the right fit for your home and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions about Solar Panels on Slate Roofs

Can you put solar panels on slate roofs?

Yes, you can put solar panels on slate roofs. They need more work, time and money than other roofs. But you can still save a lot with solar power every year.

Do I need planning permission for solar panels on my roof?

Solar panels on your roof don’t need planning permission, as they are considered ‘permitted development’, unless your home is a listed building or located in a conservation area. For listed buildings, make sure the solar panels match or enhance your home’s history, and apply for planning permission. For conservation areas, talk to your local authority about your solar PV system installation plan and how it will fit in with the local area.

Which roofs are not suitable for solar?

These roofs are bad for solar: all-wood roofs, north-facing roofs, and low-sunlight roofs. Wood and solar panels can cause fires, but wood roofs are rare. North-facing roofs make less electricity, but solar panel trackers can help. All UK homes get enough sun for solar power. The only trouble is shady roofs, but this can be fixed.

How do inexperienced solar installers install solar on slate roofs?

Slate roofs are tricky to work on. For instance, some inexperienced solar installers make holes in the tiles to mount the equipment. They then seal the holes with silicone, but this will leak sooner or later and you’ll need a skilled MCS certified solar installer to fix it.

What are the disadvantages of a slate roof?

Slate roofs are expensive to install, which is a major drawback. Many houses need extra support for the slate tiles’ weight, which increases the cost. Slate tiles tend to attract homeowners because of their aesthetic look.

Latest Solar Panel Installation Posts

  • How trees affect solar panels and what you can do about it
    The rapid growth of renewable energy has led many homeowners and businesses to invest in solar panels as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional power sources. However, the presence of trees near solar installations can significantly impact their efficiency and output. Understanding the complex relationship between trees and solar panels is crucial for maximizing […]
  • Cost of Solar Panels UK
    Solar panels have emerged as a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution to meet energy needs in the United Kingdom. As the country continues its transition towards renewable energy sources, solar panels have gained significant popularity. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the cost of solar panels in the UK, exploring the various factors that […]
  • BLACK FRIDAY SALE!
    NXTGEN Energy Ltd Announces Black Friday Sale to Help More People Go Solar and Save Money on Their Bills NXTGEN Energy Ltd, a leading provider of renewable energy solutions across Essex, Kent, London and beyond, is excited to announce its Black Friday Sale aimed at promoting sustainable energy practices while allowing customers to save big […]
  • Solar Together Scheme
    Solar Together: A Group-Buying Scheme for Solar Panels Are you interested in installing solar panels on your roof, but worried about the high upfront cost? Do you want to join the green energy revolution and reduce your carbon footprint? If so, you might want to consider Solar Together, a group-buying scheme that helps you get […]
  • Commercial Solar Panels FAQs
    ☀️ Commercial solar panels can significantly reduce energy costs for businesses, and lower your carbon footprint. ☀️ Commercial solar panels cost £16,000-£70,000 for small to medium-sized businesses, depending on the system. ☀️ There are various grants and schemes available for businesses that want to install commercial solar panels. If you’re a business looking for a […]
  • Can Solar Panels Be Installed on a Slate Roof?
    ☀️ Yes, solar panels can be installed on a slate roof, but it requires a different installation technique. ☀️ Due to the different installation required it costs 30% more than an installation on a standard roof. ☀️ The savings on your electricity bill will normally more than make up for this higher price point. Solar […]
  • Is it worth buying solar panels in Essex?
    ☀️ Over 40,000 homes in Essex have a solar panel system installed. ☀️ You’ll normally break even on solar panels in about 10 years. ☀️ A 3.5kW solar panel system will cost about £7,000 on average. Solar panels are becoming more affordable and more common in the UK, with over 1.3 million households already using […]
  • MCS Certification
    What is MCS certification and why is it important? MCS stands for the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, an initiative that was introduced in 2007 to support the fast-growing microgeneration industry in the UK. Microgeneration refers to the small-scale production of heat or electric power from renewable sources, such as solar panels, wind turbines, heat pumps, biomass […]
  • How Are Solar Panels Installed?
    What you can expect from a solar panel installation ☀️ Solar panel installations typically take about a day to complete, depending on the complexity of the system. ☀️ Solar panel installations require scaffolding, fixing brackets, wiring, inverter and interconnection to the grid. ☀️ Solar panel installations need to be done by MCS Certified installers, who […]
  • What’s the Maximum Number of Solar Panels you can install in the UK?
    ☀️ There is currently no maximum number of solar panels you’re allowed to have in the UK ☀️ Any solar PV system installation above 3.68kWp must have permission beforehand (DNO G99) ☀️ Buying an oversized solar PV system is less cost-effective and will produce energy you don’t use Solar panels are becoming more affordable, while […]
  • North vs South Facing Solar Panels: Which is best?
    ☀️ In the UK, south-facing solar panels receive the most exposure to sunlight during the day ☀️ North-facing solar panels receive the least exposure to sunlight during the day ☀️ If your roof isn’t suitable, then ground or shed-mounted solar panels could be a solution If you live in the UK and want to install […]
  • How many Solar Panels do I need for my home?
    ☀️ The average 3-bedroom home in the UK will need 10 solar panels ☀️ Your energy usage will determine how many solar panels you need ☀️ The more efficient your solar panels are, the less of them you’ll need Solar panels are becoming more and more affordable in the UK, which is great news – […]