A solar roof is a great way to do your bit for the environment and lower your energy bills without sacrificing the look of your house. Here, we’ll explore everything to do with hiring solar roof installers near you – from how to find the right one, to how much they typically charge.
Want to get started on finding expert solar roof installers near you?
We have two quick and easy ways to find the best solar roofing companies near you on Checkatrade:
- Request a quote. Just tell us what you need doing and we’ll reach out to solar roofers near you, who come highly rated in your local area. They’ll then contact you directly.
- Search your postcode. Enter your postcode into the search box below to browse a list of top solar roof installers near you on Checkatrade.
Your questions answered about solar roof installation near you
What are solar roofs?
A solar roof is a roof that has the power to convert sunlight into electricity without panels. Instead, they use solar roof tiles.
These look like normal roof tiles, but can generate electricity for your home in the same way as solar panels. So, they’re ideal for those who want to benefit from solar energy without impacting the look of their property.
How efficient is a solar roof?
Sadly, solar roofs are currently not as efficient as their traditional panel counterparts.
A typical solar panel has a 20% efficiency, which means they’re able to convert 20% of the sunlight hitting them into electricity. In fact, the most efficient monocrystalline solar cells can reach up to 27% efficiency.
On the other hand, a solar roof can range between 10% and 20% efficiency. Typically though, photovoltaic (PV) solar roof tiles are around 8-15% less efficient than traditional panel systems.
Are solar roofs a good idea?
We certainly think so! Solar roof tiles are a fantastic option for anyone who would like to benefit from solar energy but is put off by the look of solar panels, which some believe to be unsightly.
Solar panels are especially ideal for listed buildings or those in a conservation area. These properties need planning permission for solar panels, so homeowners may find that choosing a solar roof is the only way to benefit from solar power. Solar roof tiles also open up the possibility of going solar to anybody who is worried their roof wouldn’t support the weight of traditional solar panels, or wouldn’t have room for them.
As if that wasn’t enough, bear in mind that solar roof tiles are extremely durable and tend to come with long guarantees. This means you can expect to get free electricity for up to 40 years, at the same time as enjoying a stronger and more aesthetically pleasing roof.
What are the disadvantages of solar tiles?
The main disadvantage of solar tiles is their cost – solar tiles cost over two times more than traditional solar panels of the same wattage. This is largely because the technology is more compact, but also because they are more labour-intensive to install.
In fact, if you opt for a solar tile system, you’ll need to replace your entire roof, rather than simply fitting solar panels over the top of your roof tiles as you would with traditional solar panels.
Why hire a solar roof installer near me?
Installing a solar roof involves replacing your whole roof with solar tiles. It’s a large undertaking that requires somebody who knows what they’re doing. Here are some of the main benefits of hiring an experienced solar roof installer near you:
- Expertise. A solar roof installer near you will be able to use their in-depth knowledge to help you understand which solar roof tiles are best for your property and preferences.
- Safety. Solar roof tile installation involves working at height. A solar roof installer near you will be best-placed to carry out the job safely and effectively.
- Quality. Installing your solar roof incorrectly could lead to it leaking or being unsafe. When you hire an expert solar roof installer near you, you’ll know the job will be carried out to a high standard that will stand the test of time.
- Guarantee. Many solar roof suppliers and installers will guarantee your solar roof, so you can be confident that it will last for decades to come.
How much do solar roofing companies near me charge?
The cost of solar roof tiles can vary based on several factors, including the system wattage, the size of your roof, and your location.
However, as a ballpark average, you can expect to spend around £12,000 – £16,000 on a 4kW system, along with roughly £2,200 in labour costs.
This is compared to the cost of traditional solar panels, where a 4kW system would usually set you back around £8,000, with labour costs of around £1,200.
Just remember that although installation costs are high, your solar roof tiles will generate free energy, allowing you to save money on your energy bills and giving you the chance to make your money back in the long run. If you make enough electricity, you could even sell some of it back to the national grid to make your money back quicker.
How do I find reputable solar roofers near me?
Ready to go ahead with solar roof installation? Then you probably want to know how to pick the right solar roofing company for the job. Here are our top tips.
- Read reviews. Always check to see what other homeowners are saying about the solar roofing companies near you that you’re considering.
- Ask for recommendations. If any friends or neighbours have had a solar roof installed, ask if they would recommend their solar roofer. Make sure to cross-reference any recommendations with reviews on Checkatrade.
- Check insurance. All reputable tradespeople should have insurance to protect them (and you) in case things don’t quite go to plan. Luckily, insurance is a prerequisite for all companies on Checkatrade.
- Ask when they take payment. Reputable solar roofing companies near you shouldn’t charge the full amount upfront. Instead, at least part of the balance should be payable after the work is complete.
- Use Checkatrade! Our approved tradespeople have to pass up to 12 checks and regularly receive reviews from homeowners. Plus, when you contact a trade on Checkatrade, our guarantee could cover you for up to 12 months. You can claim up to £1,000 (exclusions and T&Cs apply).