If you’ve been told that solar panels can’t be installed on a clay tile roof, you’re not alone. It’s a common concern among homeowners — but in most cases, it’s simply not true.
Clay tiles are widely used across UK homes, and having a clay tile roof does not automatically prevent you from going solar.
Why do some installers say no to clay tiles?
The hesitation usually comes down to installation complexity, not impossibility.
Clay tiles are:
More fragile than concrete tiles
Prone to cracking if handled incorrectly
Sometimes older, which can raise concerns about roof condition
Some companies avoid them because they require more care, time, and experience.
The reality: solar can be installed on clay tiles
With the right approach, solar panels can absolutely be fitted to clay tile roofs.
Installers use specialist mounting systems designed specifically for tiled roofs. This typically involves:
Carefully removing individual tiles
Installing roof hooks or brackets to the rafters beneath
Replacing or adapting tiles so everything remains weatherproof
When done properly, the system is secure, watertight, and long-lasting.
What matters most is the condition of your roof
Before any installation, a professional installer should carry out a full roof survey. This checks:
The condition of the tiles
The strength of the roof structure
The age of the roof
Whether any repairs are needed before installation
If your roof is in good condition, there’s usually no issue.
If it’s older or has damaged tiles, some minor remedial work may be recommended first — which is standard for any roof type.
Are clay tiles more difficult to work with?
Yes — but that’s a matter of installer experience, not feasibility.
Clay tiles require:
Careful handling to avoid breakage
Skilled fitting to maintain weatherproofing
Sometimes replacement tiles to ensure a clean finish
An experienced installer will factor this in from the start.
Why this shouldn’t put you off solar
Many UK homes — including period and character properties — have clay tile roofs. Solar technology and installation methods have evolved to accommodate this.
In most cases:
Clay tiles = completely compatible with solar
The key = proper assessment and experienced installation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can solar panels be installed on clay tile roofs?
Yes, in most cases solar panels can be installed on clay tile roofs. Clay tiles are common on many UK homes and do not automatically prevent a solar installation. The key factors are the condition of the roof, the structure beneath it, and using the right fixing system.
Why do some installers say no to clay tiles?
Clay tiles are more fragile than some other roof coverings, so they require extra care and experience during installation. Some installers choose not to work on them because they can be more labour-intensive, not because solar cannot be fitted.
Will installing solar panels damage my clay tiles?
A professional installer will work carefully to minimise the risk of damage. Because clay tiles can be brittle, some tiles may occasionally need replacing during the installation process, but this is a normal part of working on tiled roofs and should be managed properly.
Do clay tiles need to be removed to install solar panels?
Usually, individual tiles are lifted or temporarily removed so mounting brackets can be fixed securely to the roof structure beneath. The tiles are then refitted or replaced so the roof remains weatherproof and secure.
Are clay tile solar installations more expensive?
They can be slightly more labour-intensive, which may affect the overall installation cost. However, clay tile roofs are still a very common roof type for solar and are often perfectly suitable for a cost-effective installation.
Do I need a roof survey before installing solar?
Yes, a roof survey is recommended before installation. This helps assess the condition of the tiles, the age of the roof, and the strength of the roof structure to make sure the system can be installed safely and effectively.
Does having a clay tile roof mean I cannot have solar?
No. In most cases, a clay tile roof does not stop you from having solar. What matters most is whether the roof is in suitable condition and whether the installer has the right experience and mounting solution for the property.