Solrif FAQs – Questions and Answers

What are Solrif® solar roof tiles?

Solrif® solar roof tiles are an innovative product in the field of photovoltaics. They utilise the technology of frameless standard PV modules and integrate them into solar roof tiles that replace conventional roofing. The result is an aesthetic in-roof photovoltaic solution that blends seamlessly into the building.

Does Solrif® meet the requirements for a hard roofing system?

Solrif® does indeed meet the basic requirements for a hard roofing system. However, it should be noted that the fire behaviour of the PV laminate is crucial. As a rule, the PV laminate must be tested by the module manufacturer or supplier.

What are the key features of Solrif®?

The flexibility of Solrif® is unrivalled. PV modules measuring up to 1.0 m x 1.75 m and 5.2 mm thick can be integrated with ease. Furthermore, with Solrif®, the PV modules are not clamped in place but cleverly inserted. These features, combined with an extremely slim frame profile, maximise the benefits and efficiency of the photovoltaic system.

Is Solrif® certified?

Although Solrif® cannot be certified as a system without modules, manufacturers of PV modules with Solrif® frames generally obtain an extension of their basic certificates through mechanical testing in accordance with IEC.

Are in-roof photovoltaic systems less efficient than rooftop solutions?

In fact, in certain installation scenarios (roof pitch), the yield can be up to 5% lower. However, thanks to the unobstructed lower edge and the self-cleaning properties of the PV modules, the annual yield may actually be higher.

Is Solrif® suitable for use on façades?

Due to the specific requirements for a façade (structural integrity, exposure to hazards, fire safety), its use on façades is not generally recommended and should be assessed by the user on a case-by-case basis.

Do you offer dummy modules?

Yes, we offer dummy modules on request. For a cost-effective and quick solution, we recommend purchasing standard dummy modules from our retail partners and fitting them to the roof.

Are hybrid modules also available?

In principle, that would be possible. However, we are currently not aware of any manufacturers who offer their hybrid modules with the Solrif® in-roof photovoltaic system.

What maintenance is required for Solrif® systems?

We recommend having Solrif® systems inspected by a roofer every two to three years.

How heavy is the Solrif® system?

The weight of the Solrif® system is calculated as the weight of the module plus approximately 2.5 kg per frame, which corresponds to roughly 11 kg/m².

How watertight is Solrif®?

Solrif® is rainproof on a standard roof pitch of 22°. The relevant roofing guidelines, such as SIA 232/1 (CH) and ZVDH (D), must always be followed.

What material is the Solrif® frame made of?

The Solrif® profile frame and edge connection profiles are made from extruded aluminium profiles. The support and sealing profile is made from EPDM rubber. A single-component silicone adhesive is used for framing and sealing. The mounting brackets are made from stainless steel.

Are there any issues with the copper sheet metal cladding supplied by the client?

An electrochemical reaction can occur between aluminium and copper, leading to corrosion of the aluminium. Problems can be avoided by ensuring that no unpainted aluminium parts come into direct contact with the copper sheet. The paint coating ‘insulates’ the aluminium from the copper.

How many components does the Solrif® system consist of?

The Solrif® system consists of the framed solar roof tiles, the edge profiles and the mounting brackets. A cable set for equipotential bonding is also available for each PV module.

Can modules of different sizes be combined structurally?
In principle, this is possible. However, it should be noted that the modules in a row should be of the same height to ensure a rain-proof lateral overlap.

Can I install Solrif® from top to bottom?

In principle, this is possible, but it involves more work as the brackets must be precisely pre-assembled. The modules can then be slid in from below, whilst ensuring that the EPDM seal remains in the correct position.

What are the maximum wind and snow loads?

The Eurocode and SIA 261 form the basis for design. Charts showing wind and snow loads are available on request at solrif@ernstschweizer.ch.

How can a snow guard system be installed?

For partial roof solutions, a snow guard can traditionally be installed in the lowest rows of tiles. For complete roof solutions, the snow guard can be installed on a row of blind modules with a minimum height of 370 mm. The dimensions of the snow guards must be determined on a case-by-case basis depending on the building.

When are multiple snow guards required?

For tall fields, additional snow guards should be installed approximately every 4 metres or after every three to four rows of modules. A special information sheet from Schweizer on this topic is available to registered users on the Schweizer website.

How should the roof underlay be installed?

The roof underlay must be installed in accordance with the technical regulations SIA 232/1 (CH) and ZVDH (D). The higher temperature load (up to 80 °C) of the roofing membranes must be taken into account. Products with the appropriate resistance should be used.

What sizes of roof windows are available?

Roof windows are available in standard widths and in single and double heights.

I have a hipped roof. How can I cover the entire roof with Solrif® solar roof tiles?

On hipped roofs, the PV module array can be approximated to a trapezium by arranging the modules in a staggered pattern. The remaining empty spaces are filled with dummy modules cut to size on site.