If you’re thinking about going solar, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“Is my roof suitable for solar panels?”
At SolarTherm UK, we understand that every home is unique — and a one-size-fits-all solution doesn’t work. That’s why our experienced technical team carries out a comprehensive assessment of your property, ensuring your solar system is designed for maximum efficiency and performance.
Whether you have a pitched roof, flat roof, garage, extension, or even a shed — we’ll find the right setup for you. Here’s what we look at when assessing your property:
Roof Size
The available space on your roof determines how many panels can be installed and, in turn, how much energy you can generate. Our specialist design team at SolarTherm UK will evaluate the usable area and tailor your system to match both your property layout and energy usage. It’s obvious that the larger the roof the more panels you can install, but do you need them? The perfect solar PV system is designed for maximum efficiency to cover your power use. The average UK home will need a 4kW solar PV system, installing more may generate more electricity but sometimes the additional costs outweight the benefits. With the SEG rates typically being much lower than the original FiT tariffs, it is usually more economical to install what you need, rather than what you can fit.
Orientation & Roof Angle
For optimal results in the UK, a south-facing roof with a pitch between 30°–40° is ideal.
But don’t worry — east- and west-facing roofs still perform very well, especially when paired with smart system designs. Even flat roofs can accommodate solar panels using specialist mounting solutions to achieve the right tilt and direction.
Shading
Solar panels can still generate electricity in shaded conditions, but consistent shade does reduce overall efficiency. If parts of your roof are shaded by trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings, we’ll explore optimised system designs, such as panel-level inverters or layout adjustments to minimise the impact and maximise your output.
Roof Condition
Your roof must be in good structural condition to support a solar array. Our technicians will inspect for signs of wear, damage, or ageing before installation. If repairs are needed, it’s best to take care of them first — as solar panels can last 25–30 years, you’ll want a solid foundation for decades to come.
Roofing Material
Most UK roofing types are suitable for solar installation, including:
- Asphalt shingles
- Metal roofing
- Flat roofs with gravel or membrane
- Wooden roofs (with additional fire safety measures)
However, some roof types — such as thatched or glass roofs, or those containing asbestos — are not suitable. If asbestos is present, it must be professionally removed before any solar work can begin. If your roof isn’t suitable, the team at SolarTherm UK can discuss other money-saving options such as a ground-mounted installation or battery only installation.
We’ll Design the Right System for You
Even if your roof isn’t “textbook perfect,” that doesn’t mean solar is off the table. Our expert team at SolarTherm UK will explore all available options, from alternative mounting systems to creative layout configurations, to ensure your system works effectively and safely.
Start Your Free Roof Assessment Today
Let us take the guesswork out of your decision. As the longest running solar company in the South East, we’ve helped thousands of UK homeowners find the right solar solution for their property — and we can help you too.
