Simon Garbett, Category Manager Roof Systems at Wienerberger, explains how roofers can keep their share of business and gain a competitive edge as demand for solar energy increases.
As the UK homebuilding market responds to the demands of Part L legislation and prepares for the Future Homes Standard (FHS), solar power has emerged as a crucial solution. Not only does solar energy play a pivotal contributing role in reducing carbon emissions of new buildings by 75-80% as required by the legislation, but it’s also in high demand from homeowners.
Solar photovoltaics (PV) are already playing a major role in developing net zero homes, as part of revised specifications to deliver significant carbon savings. The FHS consultation offers two options for debate. The first option is the most cost-effective and “balances higher additional build costs against even lower consumer bills.” These “build costs” refer to the solar PV panels included in this option, which would cover a 40% equivalent of a home’s ground floor area.
The estimated £6,200 average increase in home building costs, however, would quickly be offset by reduced heating and hot water bills – which could be cut by £910 – £2,120 a year according to government estimates. Option two offers a “minimal approach” to achieve net zero carbon homes without any requirement for solar PV installations, but through other carbon saving measures like heat pumps.
The current demand for solar technology in the new build market represents a real opportunity for roofing contractors to master a new space. In-roof solar requires real roofing skills and expertise, which puts roofers in the driver’s seat if they embrace the technology.
Controlling the rooftop ecosystem
The roofing trade’s traditional domain has always been providing homes with protective coverings utilising skilled techniques in waterproofing, flashing, and roof tiling. But as solar energy goes mainstream, roofing contractors risk being relegated to working around solar arrays installed by outside companies who then control the full rooftop ecosystem.
Traditional new build solar projects would typically see roofers lay felt and battens before solar installers add panels, only for the roofer to then be called to return to the job to trowel around the new additions. Finally, a specialist solar installer would connect the inverter to the grid.
In-roof solar changes this picture, placing the emphasis back on the roofer’s craftsmanship. Unlike bolt-on solar panels, in-roof PV is designed for seamless installation along with the roofing materials from the start. The solar cells are integrated into the actual roof coverings, such as specialty photovoltaic shingles or tiles, requiring expert tiling skills and experience to install.
By taking on turnkey in-roof solar installations, roofing contractors can offer homebuilders a unified product and point of contact for their entire rooftop needs, with solar power and protective coverings integrated into one seamless package. This eliminates any jurisdictional squabbles over who controls the rooftop, consolidating all aspects of the job under one roof.
Wienerberger’s Sandtoft in-roof solar panels were purposely designed with roofers in mind, to empower them to own this burgeoning space, particularly for new build projects. Designed to mimic the classic aesthetic of traditional tiled roofs, they seamlessly integrate with both clay and concrete tiles, interlocking seamlessly. Each lightweight panel weighs only 8.95kg and the direct mounting to battens reduces installation costs. They also come equipped with inverters, batteries, roofing tiles, and accessories, uniting fabric, solar, and storage technology into one cohesive system.
Reach for the skies
Making the leap from roofing to in-roof solar may seem daunting but for roofing outfits looking to broaden their skills, suppliers are providing comprehensive training programmes to bring contractors fully up to speed on installing, operating, and maintaining in-roof solar systems. Roofers can leverage their core skills while tapping into the ongoing solar panel installation boom.
Wienerberger collaborates closely with roofing professionals, equipping them with the necessary expertise to seamlessly integrate in-roof solar solutions. A dedicated team of design specialists provides comprehensive guidance on the entire solar system, encompassing panels, inverters, and batteries. Furthermore, Wienerberger offers access to technical experts who are readily available to provide additional support when needed.
Recognising the importance of knowledge-sharing, the company conducts online training courses tailored specifically for roofers. These courses cover the intricate details and best practices of in-roof solar installation, ensuring that roofing professionals are well-versed in this evolving technology.
The Future Homes Standard is only the beginning of a long-term quest for a more sustainable built environment. As further legislation and standards look set to follow, roofers can get ahead of the game and broaden both their skillsets and expertise by taking a lead role in the solar revolution.
For further information on Wienerberger’s Sandtoft in-roof solar panels visit Introducing In-roof Solar | Wienerberger UK.
