The sun over Kyiv Demonstration project for a portfolio
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Commercial and residential buildings

Solar panels on a flat roof

On a flat roof the frame sets the tilt angle, and we space the rows so that they do not shade one another. Often the station can be installed without piercing the roofing at all.

Rows of solar panels on the flat roof of an industrial building, seen from above
Layout

South or east–west

Two main ways to arrange the rows. The choice depends on the roof area, your consumption pattern and wind load.

south · 10–15°

More energy per panel

Every panel faces south and gives maximum generation, but the rows need spacing to avoid shade.

east–west · ~10°

More panels on the roof

The rows stand in a “roof” pattern with almost no gaps. Generation is more even in the morning and evening, and the structure catches less wind.

ballast or anchor

No piercing, or rigid

Ballasted frames hold by their own weight and do not pierce the roofing. Anchoring is for roofs with a weight limit.

Roofing and mounting

How we mount on different flat roofs

We make the final decision after inspecting the roofing and assessing the load-bearing capacity of the slab.

RoofingHow we fix itFeature
PVC or TPO membraneBallasted frames on protective pads that do not damage the membrane.no piercing
Torch-applied bitumen roofingBallast or anchors with joints sealed using a material compatible with the roofing.your choice
Concrete slabFrames anchored to the slab, or ballast blocks.rigid fixing
Low-slope profiled sheetFixing to the sheet and purlins, with panels parallel to the roof or on low frames.minimal weight
Installers fitting solar panels on a flat roof
Before installation

What we check on a flat roof

  • Load-bearing capacity of the slabBallast adds weight, so it has to be taken into account together with the snow load.
  • Waterproofing and drainageThe frames must not block the slopes towards the drainage outlets.
  • Wind zonesThe wind is stronger near the edges and corners of the roof — there we use more ballast or a setback.
  • Parapets and equipmentWe account for shade from parapets, ventilation and air-conditioning units in the layout.
  • Maintenance walkwaysWe leave access to the panels and roofing for inspection and cleaning.

Compare layouts for your roof

The calculator shows how many panels fit with the “south” and “east–west” layouts.

To the calculator