Making the switch to solar is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make.
Lower energy bills, reduced carbon footprint, and long-term savings all make it an attractive choice. But before installing solar panels, there’s an important first step: making sure your roof is up to the task.
At Sheerwater Solar, we understand that not every roof is immediately suitable for solar. That’s why we provide a complete solar re-roofing service in Surrey, blending expert roofing skills with specialist solar knowledge. By combining these two areas of expertise, we prepare your roof properly so your panels perform at their best for decades to come.
Not every roof type is created equal when it comes to solar. Here are the main requirements:
Pitch
The angle of your roof is important. A pitch between 30 and 50 degrees is considered ideal for capturing sunlight efficiently throughout the year.
Orientation
A south-facing roof will give you the highest output since it captures sunlight for most of the day. East- and west-facing roofs can also work well, producing slightly less energy but still making solar worthwhile. North-facing roofs are generally not recommended.
Strength and stability
Solar panels are designed to last decades, so the roof beneath them needs to be strong enough to support that weight. Any weaknesses or damage should be repaired before installation. A secure, durable roof ensures that your solar system remains safe and efficient in all weather conditions.
Shading
Solar panels work best when they are free from shade. Trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings casting shadows across your roof can reduce efficiency. While we cannot remove every source of shade, careful planning helps optimise placement and reduce its impact.
Roof material
Most common roof materials, such as tiles and shingles, are suitable for solar. However, some materials like thatch, asbestos, or glass are not appropriate because they cannot safely or effectively support panels. If your roof is made from one of these materials, our re-roofing service can replace it with something more durable and solar-friendly.
Available space
Solar requires a clear area of roof space. As a guide, four panels need a minimum of 6.4 square metres. A full system for a typical home will naturally need more. We can help you to understand the best possible layout and prepare your roof to maximise capacity.
If your roof doesn’t currently meet all these requirements, that doesn’t mean solar is out of reach.
This is where Sheerwater Solar’s re-roofing services come in. We don’t just install panels onto an unsuitable surface. Instead, we make sure the roof itself is strong, safe, and ready, before integrating solar technology in one streamlined project.
Most solar providers focus only on the panels.
At Sheerwater Solar, we do things differently.
Our team includes dedicated roofing specialists as well as solar experts. This means every re-roofing project is carried out to the highest standards of durability, then seamlessly followed by professional solar panel installation.
Which means you don’t need to manage two separate projects or hire two sets of contractors, we take care of everything.
Re-roofing is a significant project, but we make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Here’s what you can expect:
Initial assessment
We begin by inspecting your existing roof to check for wear, damage, or weaknesses. This helps us understand what preparation is needed before installing solar.
Choosing materials
We help you select roofing materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and suitable for supporting panels. Whether you prefer tiles, shingles, or other options, we make sure the choice complements your home’s style.
Preparation
Old materials are removed, and the roof deck is repaired where necessary. This ensures a solid foundation for the new covering and the panels to come.
Installation and weatherproofing
We install the new roofing materials to industry standards, applying underlay and weatherproofing measures to protect against leaks and improve insulation.
Solar integration
Once the roof is secure, our solar team installs the panels in an optimal layout for performance and appearance.
Final inspection and cleanup
Before we finish, we carry out a full quality check and leave your property neat and tidy, ready for you to start enjoying the benefits.
Your roof plays a vital role in the success of your solar installation.
If it’s strong, suitable, and well-prepared, your solar panels can generate reliable energy for decades. If it isn’t, Sheerwater Solar’s re-roofing services ensure that it becomes the perfect platform for renewable energy.
With our integrated expertise, you’ll enjoy a home that’s both structurally sound and energy efficient.
Give us a call today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards transforming your roof and supporting a greener future.
At Sheerwater Solar, sustainability isn’t just something we talk about, it is what drives us every single day. Our mission is to help homeowners make the switch to clean, renewable energy, lowering bills while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Every solar panel installed is more than a...
Reaching out to Sheerwater Solar is straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you’re interested in solar panels for your home or business in Woking, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. You can contact us directly by calling 01932 627 555 or by sending an email to info@sheerwatersolar.co.uk.
Alternatively, fill in our online form for a swift response.
What happens next?
In most cases, we’ll need to conduct an on-site survey at your property to assess the feasibility and provide you with a tailored quote. This visit allows us to understand your specific needs and explore the potential for renewable energy solutions. Following the survey, we’ll discuss the best options for integrating solar energy into your property, including detailed costs and the installation process.
We’re excited to assist you on your journey to renewable energy and look forward to hearing from you.