Can You Install Solar Panels on a Flat Roof?
Solar panels can’t be laid down flat, but that doesn’t mean you can’t install them on a flat roof. With the right mounting system and installation team, you can put solar panels on just about any type of roof, including a flat one.
At SouthFace Solar & Electric, we’ve installed solar panels on hundreds of houses and commercial buildings with flat and low-pitch roofs in Arizona. Here’s a closer look at what it takes.
How Solar Panels are Installed on a Flat Roof
There are a few ways to install solar panels on a flat roof, including:
Tilt Racks
Tilt racks are exactly what they sound like—a racking system that tilts the panels so they sit at an angle. Tilt racks are ideal for installing solar panels on flat roofs because they allow us to position your panels at an optimal angle, maximizing the amount of sunlight they can capture throughout the day.
Ballast Mounts
Ballast mounts use heavy weights to secure the panels in place instead of screwing the racking system directly into the roof. Since ballast mounts need to be held down by weights, they can’t be installed on a pitched roof, but are ideal for flat roofs.
Challenges to Consider Before Installing Solar on a Flat Roof
There are plenty of solutions for installing solar panels on a flat roof or one with a low slope. But there are also challenges to be aware of, including:
1. Obstacles Take Up Roof Space
Flat roofs tend to have obstacles like vents, skylights, and even HVAC equipment that you have to work around when installing solar panels. This reduces the amount of space available for solar panels, which limits the number of panels you can install.
The key to dealing with obstacles is to identify them early on. At SouthFace Solar & Electric, we start with a detailed evaluation of your roof so we can design around obstacles from the start. We love a challenge and will find creative solutions to fit the optimal number of panels on your roof.
2. Installer Availability
Installing solar panels on a flat roof takes specialized knowledge and equipment that a lot of solar companies don’t have. That can make it difficult to find a reputable installer for the job.
At SouthFace Solar & Electric, we specialize in custom solar power solutions for any roof. We’re experienced in flat roof solar panel installations and will find a solution that works for your home or building.
3. Structural Support
As with any rooftop solar installation, putting panels on a flat roof will add weight. In a ballast-mounted system, the extra weight may be greater due to the heavy blocks used to hold the system in place.
In most cases, this isn’t an issue. We rarely encounter a roof that isn’t strong enough to support the additional weight. But we always conduct a structural analysis to make sure.
Are Solar Panels Worth It on a Flat Roof?
Yes, solar panels are worth it for flat roofs. The installation costs are similar to installing solar on a pitched roof, and the benefits are the same, if not greater. Since we can control the angle of your panels when installing tilt racks on a flat roof, we can position them for maximum sunlight access. That means your production will be higher, and your electric bill savings will be greater.
Of course, every house and building is different. At SouthFace Solar & Electric, we help our customers make the best decisions for their specific situations. Give us a call today to learn more about your options and what flat roof solar could look like for your home or building.
