So, you’re thinking about going solar but unsure if your roof is compatible? Here’s what you need to know about making your roof solar-ready.
One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is:
“Can solar panels be installed on my roof?”
In this article, we’ll walk you through the different types of roof materials and how they affect solar installation, how Solviva assesses the structural integrity of your roof, and other key factors to consider, such as roof slope, orientation, shading, shape, and available space.
Is My Roof Compatible with Solar?
Your roofing material plays a key role in how solar panels are mounted and how well your roof can support them. Some materials are easier to work with than others, and structural compatibility is essential for long-term safety and performance.
Common roof types in the Philippines
Most homes in the Philippines have metal roofs, especially yero or GI sheets. You’ll also see some with tiled roofs, while concrete slabs and asphalt shingles are less common. A few homes use other kinds of roofing materials, but they’re not as typical.
Not sure if your roof material is fit for solar?
For some solar providers, some roof materials can make solar installation more complex, especially if they require special tools or extra steps. But with Solviva, this won’t be an issue.
We work with all types of roof materials. No matter what kind you have, whether it's metal, tile, shingle. Our team uses the appropriate mounting solution for your specific roof type, ensuring a safe, and secure installation.
Other Roof Factors to Consider
Roof Slope and Angle
Solar panels are positioned just a few inches above your roof, and the slope can influence how effectively they capture sunlight. In the Philippines, roof slopes typically range from 10° to 30° while the ideal angle for optimal solar energy absorption is around 15°
No worries if your roof doesn’t meet this angle, our design team can customize your system to maximize solar output based on your specific roof slope.
Orientation
South-facing panels typically offer the best sunlight exposure. But if your roof faces east or west, that’s okay too. At Solviva, we can optimize your system for morning or afternoon usage by adjusting the tilt or adding extra panels.
Shade
Consider how much of your roof is shaded by nearby trees, buildings, or other structures. Think ahead—will future construction (like second floors or new buildings nearby), or even tree growth, create more shade?
During our site visits, we take shading into account when designing each system. This impacts your system’s size, layout, and savings project.
Shape and Size
Take note of your available roof space and watch out for obstructions like vents or skylights. For reference, a common system size of 5.49 kWp typically requires 15 to 23 square meters of clear roof space to fit 8 solar panels.
Ideally, this space should come from a single roof face to ensure a cleaner layout and better performance.
How Solviva Ensures Your Roof is Solar-Ready
Structural Integrity
Before installing a solar power system, it’s crucial to assess whether your roof can safely support the weight of the solar panels, the installers during installation, and external forces like strong winds, especially in typhoon-prone areas.
Structural Analysis
At Solviva, we make sure that solar installations undergo proper structural analysis if necessary. This helps us give homeowners honest guidance—whether the roof is ready for solar or if it may require additional steps like repairs or replacement before installation begins.
What we check during roof structural analysis:
✓ Identify rust spots, cracks, or any visible damage
✓ Check for leaks or water intrusion
✓ Secure anchor points and structural support to resist wind uplift
✓ Ensure adequate capacity to support system weight
Is Your Roof Solar-Ready?
Having a general idea of your roof is a great first step toward going solar. The good news? Many roof types in the Philippines are compatible with solar—with the right system and proper installation.
A quick site visit or online consultation with Solviva can help assess your roof and recommend a solar panel setup that fits your home and energy needs.
