Installing solar panels on residential roofs has become increasingly popular as homeowners look to harness renewable energy and reduce their carbon footprint. However, when it comes to tile roofs, many people wonder if they’re suitable for solar panel installations.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at solar panel brackets for tile roofs and their role in installing PV panels securely.
What are Solar Panel Brackets for Tiled Roofs?
Brackets for tiled roofs are a solar panel mounting type that offers a strong and reliable solution for those wanting to harness solar energy without harming the integrity of their tile roofs. These brackets are carefully designed to mount securely on top of your tile roof, providing a solid base for your solar panels.
Not only are these roof mounting brackets durable, but they also make the installation process simpler. Their easy-to-use design allows for quick and effortless adjustment of your solar panels to get the most sun exposure, ensuring maximum energy production.
Importance of Solar Panel Brackets for Tile Roofs
With the unique demands of tile roofs for solar panel installations choosing the right mounting bracket critical for both performance and structural integrity.
Safe Installation
Tile roofs are fragile and can easily crack under pressure. High quality solar panel brackets are designed to spread the weight of the solar panels evenly, reducing stress on individual tiles. Moreover, professional installers employ methods that avoid disturbing the underlying waterproof membrane, maintaining the roof’s integrity and preventing leaks.
This careful approach ensures that the solar panel system is not only secure but also maintains the roof’s durability over time.
Flexible Design
Solar panel brackets for tiled roofs are engineered to adapt to various tile profiles, ensuring a secure fit regardless of the specific characteristics of the roof. This adaptability removes the need for extensive modifications to the roof structure, allowing for an installation process that is both quicker and less invasive.
Moreover, the ability to adjust the angle of the solar panels maximises their exposure to sunlight, enhancing the efficiency of the solar energy system.
Nice Appearance
A major advantage of using solar panel brackets specifically designed for tiled roofs is their ability to blend seamlessly with the aesthetic of the roof. Unlike bulky or mismatched mounting systems, these brackets maintain the sleek, elegant look of the tiles while securely holding the solar panels in place.
Manufacturers often offer these brackets in a variety of colours and finishes, enabling homeowners to select an option that complements their roofing material. This consideration for aesthetics ensures that the transition to solar energy does not detract from the home’s visual appeal but rather enhances its overall appearance.
High Corrosion Resistance
One of the marks of top-quality solar panel brackets for tiled roofs is their high corrosion resistance. This is key because these brackets are always out in the elements — especially sun — and can cause corrosion, weakening the structure over time.
By using materials like aluminum and stainless steel, known for their durability and resistance to corrosion, manufacturers make sure the brackets can handle harsh environmental conditions. This toughness prolongs the life of the solar mounting system and cuts down on the need for regular replacements or maintenance, making it a cost-effective and reliable option for homeowners.
Types of Solar Panel Brackets for Tile Roof
When it comes to solar panel installations on tile roofs, using the right type of bracket is essential. There are several types of solar brackets available, each designed to meet different needs and roof characteristics.
Below, we’ll explore the most common bracket types you might consider for your solar panel setup, and how each caters to specific installation requirements, ensuring both efficacy and aesthetics are maintained.
Clay Roof Tile Bracket
The clay roof tile bracket is specially designed for installations on clay-tiled roofs, which are favoured for their aesthetic appeal and durability. Recognising the unique properties and challenges of clay tiles, this bracket for solar panels is engineered to provide a secure and effective mounting solution. It incorporates a subtle design that allows it to sit snugly under the tile, ensuring the solar panel system is mounted without disrupting the roof’s appearance or integrity.
The bracket’s unique shape conforms to the contours of clay tiles, preventing damage during installation and providing a seamless integration. Made of high-quality materials resistant to corrosion and wear, these brackets ensure long-term reliability and performance, making them an ideal choice for homeowners wanting to fit their traditional or modern home with solar power while maintaining their visual appeal.
Harvey Tile Bracket
The Harvey tile bracket is specially designed for homes sporting Harvey tile roofs, a favourite for many homeowners thanks to their durability and good looks. Made from a special mix of minerals, Harvey tiles have a unique shape and properties that can make fitting things to them a bit tricky.
That’s where these clever brackets come in, offering a bespoke solution that keeps solar panels safely in place without mucking up the look or strength of your roof.
How to Install Tiled Roof Using Brackets?
- Remove the existing tiles from the work area
- Locate and mark the rafter
- Slide the hook until you get to the optimal height
- Drill holes appropriately for the tile roof brackets
- Fill the pre-drilled holes with sealant
- Drive the screws to secure the bracket in place
- Fill in the previously removed tiles
- Install the solar array on the tile roof bracket hooks
FAQs
How much do tile roof mounting brackets cost in South Africa?
The price of tile roof mounting brackets in South Africa can vary, depending on what type you go for, what they’re made of, and who makes them. Generally speaking, homeowners might be looking at shelling out anything from 500 to 1500 Rand per bracket. And if you’re eyeing up the premium or specialised options, you might need to dig a bit deeper into your pockets. It’s wise not just to think about the upfront cost, but also how well they’ll stand the test of time and what they’ll cost you in upkeep if you’re fitting them for a solar setup.
At Zephyr Solar, we understand the importance of seamless integration and cost-efficiency when it comes to solar installations on tiled roofs. That’s why, apart from offering individual brackets, we also provide comprehensive solar panel mounting kits. These kits include not only the brackets but also rails and other necessary mounting hardware and detailed instructions to ensure a smooth installation process.
Is my roof good enough for tile roof solar mounting?
Figuring out if your roof is a good match for tile roof solar mounting requires a look at a few important details. First off, you’ve got to check how old your roof is and what condition it’s in because putting solar panels on a roof that needs fixing or will be done soon could end up costing you more. Your roof needs to be sturdy enough to hold the weight of the solar panels and their brackets.
Also, the way your roof faces and its slope play a big part in how well it can collect solar energy. Ideally, roofs that face south or have a slope between 15 and 40 degrees are best. Having a chat with a professional solar installer can give you a thorough check to see if your roof is up to the task for solar panels, making sure it ticks all the boxes for a successful and efficient solar energy setup.
What is the best type of roof for solar tile roof bracket mounting?
The ideal roof for mounting solar tile brackets is a metal one. They’re incredibly durable and built to last. Plus, you don’t need to drill any holes that go through the roof to install them, thanks to their standing seams. What’s more, metal roofs have a smooth surface, making it a breeze to mount solar panels without causing any harm to the roof.
