ROOFING
SOLAR GAINS
In-roof solar is still relatively new technology, but the market is building rapidly for products which seamlessly blend solar cells into the roofing material itself.
T
he Future Homes Standard (FHS) has led to a major emphasis on building materials, with the mandate that the carbon emissions of new homes must be reduced by 75-80% compared to current Building Regulations. To achieve this ambitious target, the FHS mandates the incorporation of renewable technologies, with solar photovoltaics (PV) playing a pivotal role. It’s no surprise then, to see these systems in demand at merchants nationwide, says Simon Garbett, Category Manager Roof Systems at Wienerberger. “Not only do in-roof solar systems contribute towards this required emissions reduction, they also offer a unique advantage over traditional bolt-on panels: seamless integration with the roof itself. They offer merchant’s customers a unique opportunity to own the roofing space. Rather than being restricted to working around solar arrays installed by outside companies, losing control over the rooftop ecosystem, in-roof solar empowers roofers to command all elements of the roof install, an advantage that is furthering demand.”
Garbett adds that one of the key selling points of in-roof solar systems is their ease of installation compared to traditional bolt-on solar panels. Rather than requiring a separate mounting system involving roof penetrations, in-roof solar panels are integrated directly into the roofing material itself during the initial installation. He says that this streamlined
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approach simplifies the process for roofers and contractors. “As an example, lightweight Sandtoft in-roof solar panels weigh just 8.95kg each and mount directly to roof battens, reducing labour and costs.”
Seamless appeal
The simple, seamless installation of in-roof solar has helped build a strong customer base among contractors and roofing professionals, Garbett says. “Homeowners are drawn to the elegant, low-profile aesthetic that blends into the roofline. Builders appreciate offering a sustainable energy solution without compromising design appeal. And roofers can leverage their existing skills to install an integrated solar system, without needing to subcontract specialist solar installers. This trifecta of benefits has driven demand for in-roof solar among eco-conscious building supply chain partners.”
For builders’ merchants and specialist roofing merchants, the growing popularity of simple-to-install in-roof solar systems presents an opportunity to tap into an exciting market. By stocking these systems and accessories, merchants can position themselves as suppliers of an emerging sustainable technology that appeals to homeowners while enabling roofers to expand their service offerings. Garbett says: “While Wienerberger only launched its Sandtoft in-roof solar solution at the start of 2023, the company has been fast
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net July 2024
to build the market for the solution, working with merchants, installers and specifiers to help them understand the technology. Most recently, we became the first supplier in the UK to partner with a specialist renewable energy training provider. Sandtoft advanced solar training in partnership with GTEC, not only equips tradespeople with the necessary knowledge and skills to properly install these systems but also serves as a valuable credential, demonstrating their competence for in-roof solar PV installation.” He explains that many suppliers are taking a proactive approach to facilitate the adoption of solar systems, not just offering comprehensive training programmes to equip contractors with the necessary skills for proper
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