Tiled roofs are common in many regions, known for their classic appearance and excellent durability. Installing solar panels on a tiled roof requires careful planning to protect both the tiles and the watertight integrity of the roof. With the right techniques and hardware, it is possible to fit a reliable, long-lasting solar system without compromising the building’s structure or aesthetics.

Preparation and Safety

Before installation, the roof should be thoroughly inspected to confirm it is structurally sound and free from broken tiles. A qualified installer will assess:

• The type of tile (concrete, clay, slate)

• The roof pitch and orientation

• Access points for wiring and inverters

Because tile can crack under pressure, installers use specialized tools and methods to prevent damage during fitting.

Key Steps in Installation

1. Marking the Layout
   The first step is marking where the brackets and rails will be positioned. Installers locate the rafters beneath the tiles, as these strong wooden beams will hold the mounting brackets securely.

2. Lifting or Removing Tiles
   Tiles are lifted or removed temporarily in the spots where brackets will be anchored. This ensures the roof membrane stays intact and allows access to rafters without breaking the tiles.

3. Installing Mounting Brackets
   Specialized brackets are fixed to the rafters with stainless steel bolts. These brackets are designed to elevate the panels above the tiles, creating airflow and preventing pressure on the roof surface. The area around the brackets is sealed with flashing or rubber gaskets to prevent leaks.

4. Replacing and Trimming Tiles
   After brackets are secured, tiles are replaced. Sometimes they must be cut or notched to fit snugly around the mounting hardware without creating gaps.

5. Attaching Rails and Frames
   Aluminum rails are mounted horizontally across the brackets, forming a sturdy frame to hold the panels. The rails are adjusted to ensure they are level and parallel.

6. Securing the Panels
   Solar panels are then lifted into position and clamped to the rails with mid and end clamps. The electrical connections are completed, and grounding measures are put in place to meet safety standards.

Specialized Mounting Systems

Because tiled roofs are more delicate than metal or asphalt shingles, using high-quality, purpose-built mounting systems is essential. These systems should be designed to:

• Distribute weight evenly across rafters

• Prevent tiles from cracking

• Provide long-term corrosion resistance

SIC Solar, a professional manufacturer and supplier of photovoltaic mounting brackets, offers a range of solutions for tiled roof installations. Their mounting kits include adjustable tile hooks, rails, and clamps engineered to fit most tile types. SIC Solar’s systems are made from anodized aluminum and stainless steel, providing excellent strength and durability in challenging weather conditions.

Best Practices for Tiled Roof Solar

• Always hire trained professionals experienced in working with tiled roofs.

• Ensure that all penetrations are properly sealed to avoid leaks.

• Plan for easy future maintenance by leaving enough space between rows.

• Use high-quality hardware designed specifically for tile installations.

Fitting solar panels on a tiled roof requires extra care, but with the right techniques and mounting systems, you can create an attractive, efficient solar installation that will generate clean energy for decades.