Tile Profile and Roof Penetration: Why Fit is Crucial
Not every PV roof penetration fits every roof. The variety of tile profiles in Germany is enormous – and this is precisely where the impermeability, installation speed, and long-term quality of a solar installation are decided. Solar installers who regularly work on different roofs need flexible solutions.
The most common tile profiles in Germany
| Tile Profile | Prevalence | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Frankfurter Pfanne | Very High | Flat profile, widely used in new constructions |
| Braas Tegalit | High | Smooth concrete tile, uniform surface |
| Creaton Futura | Medium | Large format tile with wide covering area |
| Biberschwanz (Beaver Tail) | Medium | Flat tile, common in old buildings and listed monuments |
| Harzer Pfanne | High | Similar to Frankfurter Pfanne, slightly curved |
What to consider when choosing
The PV cable penetration must adapt to the curvature and height of the tile profile. Rigid penetrations made of hard plastics reach their limits here: they do not lie flat and create gaps through which water can penetrate.
- Profile Height: High-profile tiles require flexible materials that conform to the shape
- Covering Width: Determines the available space for the penetration
- Overlap: The penetration must not block the overlap zone
- Surface Structure: Rough or glazed surfaces affect the sealing
Flexible TPU Penetrations as a Universal Solution
NEXCAPE roof penetrations are made of TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) and are produced in Germany using 3D printing. The flexible material adapts to various tile profiles and adheres tightly even to uneven surfaces. Tool-free installation also saves time on the roof.
Available Variants
Depending on string planning and system design, various variants are available:
- 2 PV / 2 PV+PE – for small systems or individual strings
- 4 PV / 4 PV+PE – standard solution for most single-family homes
- 6 PV / 6 PV+PE – for larger systems with multiple strings
All variants are available in lengths of 105 mm, 125 mm, and 150 mm to cover different roof structures.
Practical Tip: Check Before Ordering
Experienced solar installers identify the tile profile during the on-site visit. A photo of the tile is often enough to determine the appropriate penetration size. In case of uncertainty, direct contact with the manufacturer helps.
Discover flexible roof penetrations for all common tile profiles: to TPU roof penetrations for solar cables
Further Reading: Which penetration for which tile? – Sizes & variants at a glance
