An integrated photovoltaic covering is not a terrace or a universal route to the chimney. The permissible way of moving across it depends on the specific product, its supports and the manufacturer's instructions. Even a component that withstands a defined load in a test may not be intended for casually standing on its surface. Access for inspection and repairs must be planned before installation, together with fall protection. A load distributed over a sample and the pressure of a boot are two different situations. The position of the support, the way the force is applied and the shape of the component all matter. A general strength declaration therefore does not mean you may stand at any point. Two systems that look alike do not necessarily have identical access rules.

Strong sunlight is not the only factor determining the instantaneous output of a photovoltaic system. Cell temperature also matters. In typical silicon modules, cooler operation favours output at the same amount of light. This does not mean, however, that winter will deliver greater annual production than summer. Shorter days, the sun's angle, snow and weather can outweigh the benefit of lower temperature. Air temperature in the shade is not the temperature of the active roof surface. Cells absorb radiation and heat up during operation. Their conditions also depend on wind and heat dissipation through the covering. A summer ambient temperature reading alone therefore does not allow you to determine how the photovoltaic layer is performing.