With rising energy costs and a growing push for sustainability, more Queensland homeowners are turning to solar energy. And if you’ve got a tiled roof – especially concrete tiles, you’re in a great position to make the switch.
At Storm Call Roofing Projects, we regularly get asked whether tiled roofs are suitable for solar panels. The answer is yes, and in many cases, they’re actually one of the best roof types for solar installation.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through why tiled roofs are ideal for solar panels, what to consider before installation, and how to protect your roof in the process.
1. Tiled Roofs Offer Excellent Support for Solar Panel Mounting
Concrete and terracotta tiles are strong, durable, and built to withstand Queensland’s harsh conditions. This makes them a solid base for mounting solar panels.
Solar installers use special brackets that lift the tiles slightly, secure the mounts to the rafters, then replace or adjust the tiles around the fittings. This method works particularly well on tiled roofs, as tiles can be removed and reinstated without compromising the roof structure when handled properly.
If done right, the end result is a clean, secure fit that won’t interfere with the roof’s waterproofing or appearance.
2. Tiled Roofs Typically Have the Right Pitch and Orientation
One of the benefits of tiled roofing in Queensland is that most are designed with a good pitch for water drainage, which also happens to be ideal for solar panel angles.
Solar panels are most effective when tilted between 15° and 30°, which lines up well with common roof pitches found in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
A well-pitched tiled roof also means:
- Less need for additional framing or tilt kits
- Better solar efficiency without having to alter your roof design
- Easier maintenance as panels naturally shed rain and debris
3. Accessing and Adjusting Tiles Is Straightforward
Unlike metal sheets that often need to be cut or drilled into, tiled roofs allow for individual tiles to be lifted and reinstated during installation. This means:
- Minimal disruption to your existing roof
- No need to pierce through large sheets of material
- Easier post-installation repairs, if ever required
As long as the job is done by experienced solar installers (ideally working alongside your roofer), there’s minimal risk of damaging the roof surface.
4. Concrete Tiles Withstand Queensland’s Climate Better
Solar panels add some extra weight to your roof, but concrete tiles are more than up to the task. They’re built to resist UV, wind, and heavy rainfall, making them an ideal roofing surface for supporting panels long-term.
They also won’t warp or expand dramatically like some other roofing materials might under direct sun, which is important when panels need a stable, consistent surface.
5. A Tiled Roof Helps Future-Proof Your Investment
Installing solar is a long-term decision, and so is maintaining your roof. If your tiled roof is in good condition, you can expect it to outlast your solar system, which typically has a lifespan of 20–25 years.
Some quick tips to future-proof your investment:
- Have your roof inspected or restored before installing solar panels
- Make sure ridge capping and tile bedding is in good condition
- Consider replacing any damaged or brittle tiles prior to installation
- Schedule regular gutter and roof cleaning to keep panels clear of debris
Work With a Roofing Professional Before Installing Solar
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is installing solar panels on an ageing or damaged roof. If repairs or restoration are needed in a few years, the panels will need to be removed, which means extra labour and added costs.
Before installing solar:
- Have your tiled roof professionally inspected
- Fix any issues like cracked tiles, loose ridge capping, or worn pointing
- Ensure the roof structure is ready to support a solar array for the long term
At Storm Call Roofing Projects, we work with homeowners and solar installers to prepare tiled roofs properly before solar goes in. That way, you avoid future surprises and make sure everything performs exactly as it should.
Need Your Tiled Roof Checked Before Solar Goes In?
If you’re considering solar panels and want peace of mind that your tiled roof is up to the task, contact Storm Call Roofing Projects for a professional inspection.
We’ll check for damage, fix any weak spots, and ensure your roof is in top condition, so your solar installation goes smoothly and lasts for decades.
Call us today to book an inspection across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
