In-Roof vs On-Roof
Most solar panels in Sheffield are fitted "on-roof" — mounted on rails bolted through the tiles or slates with proprietary hooks. It's quick, cheap, and works, but it creates multiple roof penetrations, the panels sit 80-100mm proud of the roof surface, and the visual effect on a period property is rarely flattering.
In-roof systems replace a section of your roof covering with a weatherproofed panel array. The panels sit flush with the tiles or slates around them, with proprietary flashings at the edges. Visually it looks much more considered — the panels read as a design feature rather than an afterthought. Structurally there are no tile penetrations, just a clean weatherproof framed installation.
For new roofs or full re-roofs where solar is part of the project from the start, in-roof installation is almost always the right choice. For retrofit to existing roofs, on-roof is usually more economical unless the roof is near end-of-life anyway.
Our Role in Solar Installations
We're not MCS-certified electrical installers. What we do is the roofing side of solar projects — working alongside a qualified solar installer on combined projects. That typically involves:
- Specifying and fitting in-roof mounting systems (GSE, Clickfit, Schletter)
- Integrating flashing kits to match existing tile or slate profile
- Structural assessment of rafters for panel weight loading
- Upgrading underlay to breathable membrane behind the panel array
- Working in with felt, batten and flashing details to ensure full weatherproofing
- Ensuring no compromise to the wider roof's performance or warranty
The solar installer handles panel mounting, DC wiring, inverter, and grid connection. We handle everything from the panel frames downwards.
Leak Repair Around Existing Panels
A significant portion of our solar-related work is repairing roofs where on-roof panels were fitted by people who didn't understand roofing. Classic problems: hooks that have split the tile below, missing or inadequate lead weathering, felt that's been cut and not re-sealed, nails driven into rafters where proper hangers should have been used.
Repairing these issues usually means lifting the panel section, replacing or repairing the underlying tiles and fixings, upgrading the underlay where accessible, and refitting the mounting system to proper standard. We coordinate with the original solar installer if they're still trading; if not, we work with your preferred electrical contractor to isolate the system during the repair.
