As solar adoption continues to grow across Ireland, one issue is becoming increasingly important — and often overlooked:

👉 installing solar panels on non-felted roofs

For homeowners, farms, and businesses with older buildings, this can present serious risks if not handled correctly. Understanding your roof structure before installation is critical to protecting both your property and your investment.

🏠 What Is a Non-Felted Roof?

A non-felted roof is a roof without a breathable membrane (felt layer) beneath the tiles or slates.

These are commonly found in:

• Older Irish homes
• Farm buildings and sheds
• Extensions or outbuildings

Unlike modern builds, they lack a secondary barrier against water ingress.

⚠️ Why This Matters for Solar Installations

Installing solar involves:

• Fixing brackets into rafters
• Penetrating tiles/slates
• Creating multiple entry points

On modern roofs, felt acts as a backup layer.

👉 On non-felted roofs, there is no safety net

This increases the risk of:

• Water leaks
• Damp and mould
• Long-term structural damage

🔍 What a Proper Installer Should Do

A professional installer should always:

• Carry out a full roof inspection
• Confirm presence (or absence) of felt
• Use proper flashing and sealing
• Flag risks before proceeding

At Irish Wind & Solar, this is part of every install process.
👉 Learn more about how we approach projects: https://irishwind.ie

❗ Already Had an Installation?

If you suspect your system was installed on a non-felted roof:

👉 Contact your installer immediately

Ask:

• Was the roof assessed?
• What waterproofing methods were used?
• Is there a workmanship warranty?

You can also check guidance via the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland:
👉 https://www.seai.ie

⚠️ Do’s and Don’ts

✅ Do:

• Get a full roof assessment
• Ask for written guarantees
• Use experienced installers
• Consider upgrading older roofs

❌ Don’t:

• Assume all roofs are suitable
• Ignore leaks or warning signs
• Go with the cheapest quote
• Skip proper checks

🏗️ What If Your Roof Isn’t Suitable?

If your roof isn’t ideal, there are alternatives worth considering.

👉 For example, ground-mounted systems can remove roof risk entirely and often allow for larger installations:
https://irishwind.ie/free-energy-audit/

🔗 Related Articles (From Irish Wind & Solar)

To help you make the right decision, check out our other guides:

• 👉 Ground-mounted solar systems in Ireland – benefits, costs & when they make sense
• 👉 Upgrading to 3 phase electricity for solar and commercial use
• 👉 How rising energy costs are impacting Irish homes and businesses

You can explore all of our latest insights here:
👉 https://irishwind.ie

🧠 Final Thoughts

Solar is a long-term investment — but only if installed correctly.

Non-felted roofs require:

• Careful assessment
• Proper installation methods
• Honest advice upfront

👉 Cutting corners here can lead to serious issues down the line

📩 Need Advice?

If you’re unsure about your roof or planning a solar installation:

👉 Contact Irish Wind & Solar
📧 sales@irishwind.ie

Or request your free energy audit:
👉 https://irishwind.ie/free-energy-audit/