When people picture solar panels, they usually imagine panels sitting on top of a roof. But that's just one option. Depending on your property, your plans and how you want it to look, there are a few different ways to install solar, and choosing the right one makes a real difference.
Here's a plain-English guide to the main options we install across Devon, starting with the question we're asked most: in-roof or on-roof?
On-Roof Solar: Tried, Tested and Practical
On-roof solar is the most common type of installation. Brackets are fixed to the roof structure, rails are attached, and the panels sit neatly just above your existing tiles or slates.
Why people choose on-roof:
- It works with your existing roof. There's no need to remove tiles across the whole area, which makes it a practical choice for most homes.
- It's typically quicker and more cost-effective to install than an in-roof system on an existing roof.
- Easier access later on. Because the panels sit above the roof, maintenance and servicing are usually straightforward.
For most existing pitched roofs in good condition, on-roof solar is a sensible, reliable choice.
In-Roof Solar: A Sleek, Integrated Look
With in-roof solar, the panels sit within the roof itself, replacing tiles in that area so the array is flush with the rest of the roof. The result is a cleaner, more streamlined finish.
Why people choose in-roof:
- Looks. It gives a sleek, integrated appearance that many homeowners love, especially on modern or architect-designed homes.
- A natural fit for new builds and re-roofs. If the roof is being built or replaced anyway, integrating the panels from the start can make a lot of sense.
- Weather-tight when fitted properly. Professional installation keeps the roof watertight and performing for years.
In-roof systems need careful planning and experienced roofers, so it's important to choose a team that has done it before.
Flat Roofs: Making Unused Space Work
Got a flat roof on an extension, garage or commercial building? It can still generate electricity. Specialist frames hold the panels at the right angle to the sun, while the design takes care to protect the roof membrane and manage wind loads. Flat roof arrays can be a great way to turn wasted space into a useful energy source.
Ground Mount: When the Roof Isn't Right
If your roof is shaded, too small, facing the wrong way or simply not suitable, a ground-mounted array could be the answer, provided you have some land to spare. Ground mounts can be set at a good tilt and orientation for strong year-round performance, and they're easy to reach for servicing. They're popular with rural homes, farms and businesses across Devon.
How to Decide What's Right for You
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. When we design a system, we look at:
- Your roof: its condition, pitch, direction, covering and any shading.
- Your plans: are you building, extending, re-roofing or keeping things as they are?
- Appearance: how much the look of the panels matters to you.
- Planning considerations: listed buildings, conservation areas and some other properties may have extra rules, and we'll help you understand what applies.
- Your energy use: so the system is sized sensibly, with or without battery storage.
If you're planning a new build or major renovation, it's well worth getting us involved early. We work with architects, structural engineers and planners to design buildings that make the most of solar and battery storage while still looking beautiful. You can read more in our post on renovation, extension and new build electrics in Devon.
Honest Advice, Tailored to Your Property
We fit in-roof, on-roof, flat roof and ground-mounted systems, so we have no reason to push you one way or the other. We'll simply recommend what suits your home, your budget and your goals best. See the full range on our solar panels in Devon page, or look at in-roof, on-roof, flat roof and ground mount in more detail.
Get in Touch
Not sure which option is right for your roof? Let's talk it through.
Swaye Group
- Call: 01752 200496 or 07916 733824
- Email: info@swayegroup.com
- Visit: Unit CF16, Redlake Trading Estate, Ivybridge, PL21 0EZ