What a weight of solar panels can support my roof

The number of solar panels varies mainly depending on the consumption of your home.

Optimization Weight of Solar Panel for a successful installation

The weight of photovoltaic solar panels impacts both the roof and the operation of the solar system. Find out how to effectively calculate and manage the load of a panel for a successful and secure installation.

• A solar panel with equipment related to over -souposition weighs on average 15 kg/m².
• THE number and power of the solar panels required for your home depend on several factors such as Electric consumption of your home, THE sunshine (Cadastre), the housing surface, As well as if you are considering total self -consumption or the sale of solar electricity (EDF OA). All of these elements are determined during a feasibility study specific to your case.
• Before realizing your solar project, it is essential to carry out an in -depth study of your framework and your roof For guarantee their robustness Throughout the lifespan of your solar panels.
• THE Tile and slate coatings are more Appreciated for solar panel equipment because of their Ability to support high loads.

Calculation of the weight of a solar installation

THE weight calculation a solar installation involves‘Estimate the total load of the system components. For this, certain elements must be taken into account to calculate the total weight:

• THE type of panel;
• THE installation system (frames and support structures);
• THE cables and connectors;
• L’ inverter.

The SOLAR PANEL Weight

1. solar panel monofacial or bifacial (polycrystalline or monocrystalline);
2. thermal panel;
3. signhybrid (aerovoltaics).

Find the best solar panels !

Photovoltaics and you are two ? Our solar experts accompany you to find the best installation possible, depending on your budget.

THE Weight of a photovoltaic module differs according to the models, but as a rule, it is between 12 kg and 18 kg. If we bring this weight to the m² of roof, we get between 11 kg/m² and 12 kg/m².

Approximately 95 % of the components of a solar panel, such as glass, aluminum, silicon, copper and silver, are recyclable . Which allows them to benefit from a second life. Only approximately 5 % of solar panel components are not recyclable and end up being eliminated as waste.

The installation system

The pose will influence the final weight of the equipment. There are two installation solutions for panels:

1. Surimition integration (ISB):
   • Fixing with hooks or a deck puller: 2 to 3 kg/m² additional;
   • Lesting: Until 40 kg/m² additional;
2. Building integration (IAB): More 10 kg/m² approximately.

The particularity of a flat roof

The installation with Lesstage (concrete weighted tray, gravel, etc.) is mainly used for the roof terrace (flat roof) for waterproofing reasons. However, as we have seen, this installation adds a very important charge.

The weight of complete solar equipment

For Calculate the total load of the solar installation, you have to multiply the weight of an individual panel of each module (with other components) by the corresponding number.

To summarize, here is the average weight of a solar device:

• in superimposure (Fixing with hooks or a deception): 15 to 18 kg/m²;
• in Surimposition with weighted support:50 to 60 kg/m²;
• in Building integration: 20 to 25 kg/m².

How to calculate the number of solar panels ?

The number of solar panels varies mainly depending on the consumption of your home.

Number of panels

It is common to install equipment of a crest power of 3 kWc For a house with a Surface of 100 m². Thus, for larger houses, such as 150 m² or 200 m², it is more common to reach powers between 6 and 9 kWc.

Management of the weight of a solar installation: good practices

Carry out a study of the roof and the frame

Make sure your roof May support the load of a solar installation, And this, ideally on the lifespan of a sign (30 years on average). This preventive action can avoid you paying the high price for unexpected repairs.

To do this, we recommend that you call a professional installer who can Carry out a complete study of your roof.

The expert in charge of your solar project will have the responsibility to verify the solidity of the structures of your home in order to determine if they are able to support A solar equipment Suitable for your energy needs.

This evaluation will allow guarantee a safe and reliable solar installation by taking into account the essential information concerning the precise weight of the solar project.

Carry out a feasibility study !

Before investing in a solar project, Make a shipping . This study will allow you to read the viability of such a project. At the end of this, you can undertake the work if necessary.

Calculate your yields

Estimate the production of your photovoltaic installation according to your roof and its exposure.

Depending on the type of roof

The overall load of a photovoltaic device can be quite important. In addition, all roofs cannot bear the same charge. Indeed, the resistance of each varies according to their respective qualities.

You will find below a table detailing the load that each type of roof can withstand per m²:

Cover type

As you can see, a Coating with tiles, slates or fibro can generally bear the additional weight caused by panels. However, it is important to note that in the case of a metal frame covered with sheet metal, it is often unlikely that it will be able to effectively support solar equipment.

The consequences of an excessive or insufficient weight

Excessive weight

A excessive or insufficient load solar panels may have harmful consequences on the roof and structure of a building. Too much load on your roof can:

1. Create damage to the structure: If the mass of solar panels exceeds the maximum roofing load capacity, this may cause structural damage such as sags, cracks or even a partial or total collapse of the roof. This can result in considerable repair costs and risks for the safety of occupants;
2. have an impact on waterproofing: excessive weight can cause deformations and sags of the roof, which can compromisetightness. This can lead to water infiltrations, leaks and damage inside the building, including the deterioration of building materials, mold and degradation of insulation;
3. deteriorate the structure of the building: an excessive charge on the roof can exercise Additional constraints on the building structure, including the carriers and beams. It may weaken the global structure building and leading long -term stability problems.

The ten -year warranty

After receiving the work carried out by a RGE professional, you Take advantage of a 10 -year warranty covering any damage affecting the solidity of your roof. But also constructions defects, which compromise the solidity of essential elements such as infrastructure, foundations, structure, envelope and roof.

Insufficient weight

Regarding a Installation with insufficient load, Here are the risks that can arise:

1. instability and damage caused by the wind: insufficient mass of solar panels can make the more vulnerable panels to strong winds. THE panels can detach, fly away or be damaged, which can cause additional damage to the roof and other parts of the building;
2. ineffectiveness of the solar system: Insufficient weight can cause movements or deformations of the panels, what can affect themorientationand theirtilt. Thus, this can reduce the overall efficiency of solar equipment and have a lower efficiency.

It is therefore essential to ensure that the mass of solar panels is adapted to the load capacity of the roof and the frame.

To guarantee a sustainable and reliable solar installation, we recommend that you call on qualified professionals in this area.

In addition, we draw your attention to regular maintenance of your photovoltaic panels, especially By performing cleaning periodical, as well as a Maintenance approximately every 2 years. These measures will promote the protection and prevention of potential incidents and claims.

During maintenance, it is important to check the condition of the cables, the inverter and other components to ensure the proper functioning of your photovoltaic solar panels.

Be careful to check the buildings of the buildings !

It is not excluded for more important structures such as agricultural buildings or hangars to carry out a study of the roof and the frame.

What alternatives if my roof does not support the installation ?

If your roof lacks robustness to support a solar installation, know that other solutions are available to you to benefit from solar energy.

Installing a solar system on the ground

If you have sufficient space on your property, you can opt for the development of a Solar equipment on the ground . Solar panels will be mounted on floor supports. That offers maximum flexibility in terms of the size of the device, the Orientation and inclination of the panels for better yield and therefore the most optimal electricity production as possible.

However, with an installation on the ground, you will be unable to perceive state aid.

What is the yield of a solar panel ?

THE yield of a panel represents the Proportion of light energy converted into electricity Compared to the total energy received by the system (measured as a percentage). Therefore, the higher the yield, the more profitable your solar equipment will produce a large amount of solar energy.

Solar tiles

The solar tile is an ideal alternative to photovoltaic panels. She guarantees both electricity production and the house cover. In addition, she is more resistant and insulating than a classic tile and has a lifespan equivalent to that of a photovoltaic module.

Note all the same that the price remains higher than that of solar panels.

Car, garden or solar pergola shed

If your roof cannot bear the solar panels, you can considerInstall solar supports on other structures in your property, such as:

Roof rental

In some cases, you may consider Rent your roof to a business specialized in the installation of solar panels. She will support the installation and maintenance costs of solar panels, and you will benefit from a reduction on your electricity bill in exchange for the rental of your roof.

Questions frequently asked about the weight of a solar installation

What roofing coating is best with weight ?

THE roof coverings which generally offer the Better resistance to weight are the covers in tiles or slates. These materials are renowned for their ability to endure significant charges without deforming or sagging.

It is important to note that the weight resistance of a coating roofing also depends on the underlying structure.

It is therefore advisable to consult a professional to assess the specific characteristics of your roof and determine the coating best suited to your needs.

What a weight to descend a solar panel ?

For Lester a solar panel, We will have to count a load of 40 kg/m² In addition to that of the solar panel. Which will make a total of 50 to 60 kg/m².

How to redo your roof for free to place solar panels ?

In this case, you can Contact specialized companies private sector. Some of them offer renovate your roof for free, has Condition that you agree to lay solar panels.

What a weight of solar panels can support my roof ?

The total weight of a solar installation is not negligible. Before you get into any project, it is therefore imperative to check if your roof is capable of resisting such a load. Here we reveal the average weight of an installation and the way you can control its resistance. We will also give you the solutions to be implemented if your frame cannot bear such a weight.

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The average weight of a solar installation

A solar installation includes photovoltaic panels, but also supports to fix them.

Average weight of a solar panel

The weight of a photovoltaic module differs depending on the models, but as a rule, it is between 12 kg and 18 kg . If we bring this weight to the M2 of roof, we get between 11 kg/m2 and 12 kg/m2.

The weight of the supports

• In superimposure: 15 to 18 kg/m2;
• In integration into the building: 20 to 25 kg/m2;
• In installation on weighted support: 50 to 60 kg/m2.

Make sure your roof resists this weight

Before you start installing solar panels on your roof, you must therefore make sure that it will resist the load.

The only way to have a reliable recommendation on the issue is to ask for the advice of a professional . This can both inform you about the feasibility of your project, but also about the general condition of your frame.

Solar panels have a lifespan between 30 and 40 years. Even if your roof is able to endure their weight, it would be a shame to make the pose while your frame will need to be redone in ten years. In this case, it is better to carry out the renovation work before installing your solar panels.

What if the roof does not support the installation ?

If your roof is too fragile to support the weight of solar panels, know that other solutions exist to take advantage of the advantages of solar energy:

• Install panels on the ground. If you have enough space on your land, you can consider this solution. The advantage is that they are relatively simple to install. However, they do not allow you to take advantage of a number of financial aid from the State.
• Install a solar carport or opt for a solar pergola. You can consider one or the other of these structures, independent of the roof of your home. They perform different functions that can be useful to you: shelter for your car or roof for your terrace for example.
• Solar tiles . Depending on the weight that your roof can withstand, you may consider installing solar tiles. These are more expensive than the panels, but are very discreet and very appreciated by people who do not wish to change the aesthetics of their roof.

You now know the average weight of solar panels and their structure . Remember to check that your roof can withstand this weight before making an installation on it. Good news: if your frame is not solid enough, other solutions exist to enjoy solar energy.

What type of roof is the most with the weight of solar panels ?

As a rule, the roofs covered with terracotta tiles are the most resistant, followed by synthetic tiles, slate and sheet metal.

Are there lighter solar panels than the average ?

New solar panels, still under study, could be created soon. Composed of a much thinner glass and a thin monocrystalline layer, it would weigh almost twice lighter than most traditional solar panels, or about 6 kg/m2 . It was the National Solar Energy Institute that made this announcement. Business to follow ..

Can we put solar panels yourself ?

There are indeed solar kits, allowing you to carry out an installation by yourself. Please note: it is necessary to have significant knowledge of electricity and DIY in order to carry out this type of installation. We strongly advise to go through a qualified professional RGE Qualipv to execute this type of project safely.

Weight of a solar panel

All know about solar thermal with sensor plan or under-live tubes.

The principle of operating solar thermal

It consists of one transfer solar energy absorbed by sensors to a storage system (balloon).
This transfer is executed by means of a heat transfer liquid very little corrosive antifreeze health with regard to the installation and without any danger for humans.

As soon as the Differential regulation Thanks to its temperature probes, detects more heat in the solar collectors than in the ball, it immediately gives order to the traffic pump, centerpiece of the transfer group, to set out and thus circulate the antifreeze warmed from sensors to the ball exchanger.

The calories are therefore exchanged between the antifreeze and the sanitary water thus warmed up.
The cooled antifreeze thus returns to the sensor where again it will be warmed by solar radiation.

For the Combined heating systems (SSC), These calories are stored in the buffer ball before being directed to the boiler during heating requests, via a Motorized three -way valve controlled by regulation.

If the buffer ball water is at a sufficient temperature, the boiler will not need to start; Otherwise, the boiler will make the extra in order to obtain the desired temperature.

The production of domestic hot water is ensured thanks to a specific ball submerged in the volume of the buffer ball, operating in “Bain Marie”.

Your questions about solar thermal

• Would we have hot water even if there is no sun for several days and if the temperature is 0 ° C ?

Yes, you will have hot water thanks to your electric extra or your succession by a boiler.

• What volume of domestic hot water should be provided for 4 people ?

With an average use of hot water per person, a 200l ball is enough for 4 people.

• important plumbing work is necessary for installation ?

No. A connection to the hot water network is sufficient.

• Is a special or reinforced power outlet required ?

No. But you must have a specific line, as it was a heating system type gas boiler.

• Should the panels be installed on the roof ?

Not necessarily. They can be installed on the front or on any external wall.

• Should the panels be placed in a specific orientation ?

Yes, an orientation between 70 ° East and 70 ° west and with an inclination of 30 ° to 60 ° depending on the application.

• The roof should be reinforced ?

A reinforcement is not necessary. The weight of a panel is around 40 kilos and its average dimensions of 2 m2.

• Can we heat both heating water, a swimming pool and large volumes of sanitary water ?

Yes. We have equipment that can include between 1 and 10 panels see more, in particular to heat both, radiant floors, fan-convectors, aluminum radiators, etc., swimming pools (covered or outdoor) and sanitary water (200 there 6000 l). One of our projects in 2014 was 9 solar thermal panels.

• The solar thermal panel produces electrical energy ?

No, it is only used to heat the water and the electric consumption of the circulator is very low.

• Is electrical consumption high ?

No. There is only the consumption of the circulator of the transfer group which consumes approximately 50W (excluding electrical boost).

• Does the system contain a device for the treatment of certain bacteria such as the Legionelle ?

Yes. According to the standards in force, it includes a circuit that can raise the temperature at more than 60 °. Its operating mode is manual or automatic.

• The roof should it be reinforced ?

A reinforcement is not necessary on the roof, the weight of a panel is on average 40kg and its size is reduced. No masonry project is necessary.

• At what distance should we install the thermal accumulator panels ?

A maximum distance of 20 m is recommended, at the? You should choose a more powerful circulator.

• Can we paint the panel of another color ?

It is not recommended because the efficiency is optimal with the original color which is black matt. It is however possible to paint it in a “tile” color in geographic areas or? the climate is hot.

• Approval ?

Yes, Solar Kemark and CSTB.

• Is an interview required compulsory ?

No. Apart from the replacement of glycol after 10 years. But most manufacturers recommend maintenance to keep the warranty.

• What are the equipment guarantees ?

Certified by independent technical laboratories and chosen for their reliability and their performance:
– Our solar thermal sensors Plan benefit from a manufacturer’s warranty up to 12 years.

• Are there aid in France ?

Yes, in 2022: – The solar water heater benefits from a maximum renovation premium of 4000 €;
– The solar thermal heating benefits from a maximum renovation premium bonus of € 10,000.

• Can we have my Rénov ‘premium for a solar thermal installation ?

Yes, for panels that have a Solar Keymark or CSTB certification if their performance is eligible and the company that performs the installation is RGE.