How Much Do Solar Panels Weigh?
When you have solar panels installed on your roof, you don’t want it to remind you of the classic Goldilocks tale. Is the roof strength too weak, too strong, or just right? That’s where Solar Bear Tampa comes in with the hot take on solar panel installation.
In most cases, the weight and size of an individual solar panel is universal and doesn’t offer much variation between brands. The more critical part is the combined weight of the installation and how it will affect your rooftop. Much of the weight attributed to solar panels is actually in the aluminum framing and tempered glass that is used to create the solar panel. Tempered glass is used rather than normal glass as an industry standard to ensure that the panel can combat harsh weather conditions. The panel must withstand the impact of a 1” diameter hailstone traveling at 50 mph.
Before any solar panel installation takes place, the Solar Bear Tampa team will audit your roof through our free estimate to check its condition and if it can take the weight of the installation. Generally, every roof is able to withstand the additional weight of an average size solar panel installation. In most cases, the weight of a solar system includes panels, mounting equipment, racking, wiring and junction boxes that will total around 3-4 pounds per square foot. A roof is designed to accommodate up to 20 pounds per square foot before it becomes stressed, per the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). Though if you own an older home and there is a concern that your roof cannot handle the extra weight, an inspection can be done by a structural engineer. This will not only affirm your roof’s strength but also ensure that your warranty will not be voided if panel damage occurs.
Let us design a fairy tale ending that is just right! Solar Bear Tampa is ready to create a thriving quality of life through solar energy for Florida families just like yours. Sign up for a free estimate today or give us a call at (813) 993-4252 for more information.