Nowadays, there are many more options for solar energy than just solar panels. With many technical advances made, there are a variety of different solar tiles to choose from, including terracotta tiles and photovoltaic slate tiles, also known as PV slate.
Why Choose PV Slates?
PV slates combine beautifully with traditional slate tiles, meaning that you do not have to compromise on the aesthetic of your home or other buildings. This is particularly helpful in conservation areas where buildings need to uphold stricter building regulations as the character of the buildings need to remain intact.
PV slate tiles bridge the gap there. As the slate solar roof tiles can be easily and seamlessly combined with existing slate tiles, you can carry out vital modernisations to your historic home without compromising its integrity.
PV Slate Installation
PV slates installed next to your existing tiles and depending on your roof, the existing roof structure could be used. However, if your roof is generally in need of repairs, some work might need to be carried out to ensure the slates can be properly and securely installed.
Most PV slate will need a border around all edges, windows and other penetrations in your roof like chimney stacks. It is important to take this into account, not only for colour matching but also to calculate the available area for power generation.
Some manufacturers do offer infills, which means you can use PV slate from edge to edge.
PV Slate Guarantee
PV slates are manufactured to withstand the worst and the best of the UK weather can throw at it! So, you can rest assured that your slates are built to last if you do choose to kit out your roof with PV slates over other tiles or solar panels.
Most of them come with a 25-year guarantee, which will hopefully bring some peace of mind that your investment is worthwhile and is designed to power your home or business for a long time to come.
PV Slate Cost
As with other solar tile options, PV slates do have a higher cost than traditional solar panels do. On average it is about twice as much, although it could be more depending on your requirements and building. The actual number will depend on your property, requirements, and installation.
It is worth checking grants and schemes when looking into your solar options, as there is currently at the time of writing 0% VAT on solar panels, batteries and other renewable energy products. This can save you a lot of money. There is also the option to sell surplus energy back to the grid, and it is also worth taking into account the overall savings per year you will make by having solar tiles installed.
How Do I Get Started on PV Slate for My Home?
Are you interested in PV slate for your home and would like to discuss your options? Get in touch with Smartly Energy to discuss and we will be able to provide you a quote as well. Fill in our contact form on our contact page or give us a call on 03333355965.
