Can Your Roof Support Solar Panels? A Guide to Solar Panel Weight

Solar panel installation has increased an average of 32% every year since 2005. By the end of 2020, there were around 2.7 million solar panels installed on residential properties.

It’s normal to have questions before you have solar panels installed. While information about solar energy is becoming more accessible, it can be challenging, as a homeowner, to find all the information you need.

As you probably know, solar panels are typically installed on the roof of your home. A common question many people have is “how heavy are solar panels”.

Knowing the answer will help you know if it’s safe to install panels on your roof. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t always as straightforward as you may think.

Continue reading our guide for all the information you need about solar panel size and the best options for you.

Weight

There are several different types of solar panels, and the weight of each one can vary slightly. The average weight is between 40 and 50 pounds.

A typical residence will need around 20 to 40 panels to power the entire home. On the lower end, the panels will weigh 800 pounds. On the high end, it could be 2,000 pounds.

Solar panels made for residential use are around 5.5 feet long and three feet wide, so keep that in mind. Your roof will not only need to hold the weight, but it has to be big enough for the panels.

When you’re answering the question “how heavy are solar panels”, you’ll need to make a note that the solar panel weight isn’t the only factor to consider. The mounting equipment, wires, and racking also contribute to the total amount of weight. While it may not be a significant amount, every bit adds up.

Why They are Heavy

The solar cells that produce electricity are very lightweight. You may be wondering why they are so heavy.

The majority of the weight comes from the glass that is used to make the panels as well as the aluminum framing and backing. The glass that is used is tempered glass, which is heavier than the standard glass that you’re used to.

The reason the panels are made with tempered glass is that it’s thicker and it can withstand a lot of wear and tear. If it hails or if a storm throws debris onto your panels, you don’t have to worry about them breaking.

Determining Factors

Once you’ve decided that you want to have solar panels installed, you’ll need to look at the factors that determine if your roof can hold the weight of the panels. While the majority of roofs are built to hold extra weight, like fallen tree branches and snow, it’s important to confirm.

Roof Age and Type

Older roofs may be more susceptible to damage and may not be able to hold the weight of the panels. If you haven’t had a roof inspection in the last few years, you should schedule one.

Pooling water, missing shingles, leaks, and other issues may not be noticeable to you, but they could become a bigger issue and could affect your panels, so be sure to have your roof checked out.

Different roofing materials can also hold different weights. Tiles, metal roofing, and asphalt shingles may have different weight capacities. Just because your neighbor was able to install panels doesn’t mean you will be able to.

Local Building Codes

Local building codes are another factor that could help you determine if your roof can hold the weight of a residential solar panel system. There may be maximum weight requirements set by the government, which could be useful. If you have this information, you won’t have to worry about the weight.

Roof Slope

The shape of your roof may not seem significant, but it is. Roofs that are tilted or sloped are able to hold more weight than flat ones.

Get Confirmation

If you aren’t a structural engineer, you may not know how much weight your roof can hold. It’s crucial to have a professional check your roof if you live in an older home. They will be able to determine the weight-bearing capacity and ensure your roof can hold the weight of the panels.

If you live in a newer home that’s been built in the last ten years, you may not need to get confirmation. However, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Contact solar panel installers here to get the weight-bearing capacity confirmed.

Modifications

If your roof isn’t structurally sound, then you’ll need to make some changes if you want to have panels installed. A roof replacement isn’t ideal, but if your roof is between 30 and 50 years old, it may be time.

A roof replacement may not be necessary, you may only need to invest in a few repairs. Having an expert come out and patch your roof before the panel installation is a good idea. It will give you peace of mind knowing your roof isn’t going to be compromised under the weight of the panels.

How Heavy Sre Solar Panels?

Solar panels have countless benefits that you’ll be able to take advantage of as soon as they have been installed. As information about solar systems becomes available to homeowners, more and more residents are starting to invest in them.

Now that you know the answer to “how heavy are solar panels”, it’s time to contact a professional. If you still have questions about the solar panel dimensions or if you have concerns about your roof’s weight-bearing limit, don’t hesitate to reach out to a solar panel installer.

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