What is the difference between an in roof system and an integrated solar tile?
At first glance, an in roof solar system and an integrated solar tile can look similar. Both sit lower than traditional on roof panels and both aim to create a cleaner finish than a standard bolt on array.
But they are not the same thing.
The core difference is role. An in roof system is usually a solar product fitted within the roof build up, while an integrated solar tile is designed to form part of the roof covering itself. That distinction affects design, detailing, certification and long-term roof performance.
MCS's current solar mounting standard, MCS 012, explicitly covers roof integrated installations where the solar panels or mounting system replace some or all of the roof covering.
In simple terms
- An in roof system is generally installed into the roof as a solar assembly
- An integrated solar tile is designed to work as part of the finished roof
That means a true solar tile is not only there to generate electricity. It also needs to play its part in the roof itself.
What makes an integrated solar tile different?
A true integrated solar tile is designed to do more than hold a PV module in place. It must work with the roof as a weathering surface and fit naturally into the layout of the covering.
In practical terms, it needs to contribute to weathering, drainage, fixing and roof layout integration. A product that genuinely forms part of the roof has a different role from a system fitted into a prepared opening or tray.
Where certification comes in
Certification should be discussed carefully. According to current MCS documentation, MCS 012 is the solar mounting standard and covers both above roof and roof integrated installations. It defines a roof integrated installation as one where the solar panels or roof mounting system replace some or all of the roof covering.
MCS also describes MCS 010 as the factory production control requirement used as part of product certification. SolarTyle's website states that its product certificate is certified to MCS 005 and MCS 010 under Tyle Limited, and the published certificate is a Certificate of Factory Production Control covering photovoltaic solar panels.
From a market perspective, the key point is not only the certificate number. It is the product role.
The practical difference on a roof
This is where the distinction becomes clearer. A typical in roof system is often best described as a solar assembly designed to sit within a roof zone. A true integrated solar tile is intended to behave like part of the roofing system itself.
Instead of asking, "How does this solar system fit into the roof?", the better question is, "Is this product actually part of the roof?"
With SolarTyle, that is the whole point. SolarTyle is presented as a fully integrated roofing product that works with the tile system to help create a complete roof while generating electricity, rather than being treated as an add on feature.
Why this matters for real roof design
Many UK roofs are not simple rectangles. They include hips, valleys, dormers, rooflights and interrupted layouts. A true integrated solar tile approach is better aligned with this architecture because it is designed as part of the roof covering, not as a large inserted solar zone.
That can make a meaningful difference in aesthetics, design flexibility, roof detailing and how naturally the solar element sits within the roofscape.
Why SolarTyle positions itself differently
SolarTyle's proposition is not simply a cleaner looking panel. It is a solar roofing product. For architects, developers and homeowners, that shifts the conversation away from adding solar later and towards designing the roof with solar built in from the start.
Final takeaway
The difference between an in roof system and an integrated solar tile is not just visual. It is about what role the product plays on the roof. An in roof system is generally something installed within the roof build up. An integrated solar tile is intended to be part of the roof covering itself.
That is why the distinction matters and why SolarTyle is positioned as a true integrated solar roofing solution rather than simply another in roof solar system.
Suggested next step
If you want to understand whether your project is better suited to a standard in roof system or a fully integrated solar tile solution, SolarTyle can review the roof design and advise on the most appropriate route.
