Structural calculationPrice on requestWhat is assessed?
With solar panels, not only the panels are relevant. Ballast, mounting rails, supporting structures and the distribution over the roof also count. On a flat roof, ballast can form a significant part of the extra weight.
The installer supplies the panel layout and ballast plan. The structural engineer assesses the building using this information and details of the existing roof structure.
What data is needed?
The following information can be used to prepare the assessment. The structural engineer determines whether additional research is necessary.
- Laying plan and ballast plan from the installer
- Weights of panels and mounting system
- Roof structure and construction drawings
- Information about previous roof modifications
What do you receive?
Record the exact delivery in the quotation. Depending on your project and assignment, this involves:
- Assessment of the existing roof construction
- Assessment of the proposed load
- Advice on possible adjustments
Discuss who will take care of the architectural development, supplier details and any temporary support. In this way, the components involved are coordinated.
Materials and drawings
The choice of materials and connections follow from the design. Read more about Steel and the difference between a architectural drawing and a construction drawing.
How does the process proceed?
You describe your project and share the available data. The assignment, any additional information and planning are then coordinated. Check it out complete step-by-step plan for all phases.
What does your assignment cover?
For solar panels, the layout matters as much as total weight. Provide panel positions, the mounting system and ballast distribution. Define whether the assessment covers only the roof structure or also fixings and mounting-system information.
Can I already order material?
Order structural parts based on the coordinated and current design data. A preliminary estimate is not a complete basis for this.
Is a site visit necessary?
That depends on the project and the available information. Sometimes drawings and photos are sufficient for the inventory; sometimes an admission or additional examination is necessary.
What happens if my plan changes?
Report changes before they are implemented. The structural engineer assesses whether calculations and drawings need to be adjusted.
From data to a detailed plan
Checklist for your application
| Given | What you prepare |
|---|---|
| Laying plan and ballast plan from the installer | Gather the most recent available data and identify what is missing. |
| Weights of panels and mounting system | Gather the most recent available data and identify what is missing. |
| Roof structure and construction drawings | Gather the most recent available data and identify what is missing. |
| Information about previous roof modifications | Gather the most recent available data and identify what is missing. |
- Describe your complete construction plan.
Visualize the extra weight, mounting and the influence of wind on your roof.
- Discuss missing data.
The structural engineer determines which site survey or additional information is required for the agreed assessment.
- Record order and delivery.
Agree on the calculated parts, drawings, price and planning.
- Coordinate the design with the construction work.
Use the current documents and have relevant changes reviewed before they are implemented.
Frequently asked questions about solar panels
What information is required for solar panels on a flat roof?
In addition to roof and construction drawings, the installation plan, ballast distribution and weights of panels and mounting system are relevant. Have the installer supply the proposed setup. Also report existing installations and planned changes to the roof structure.
Is the weight of the solar panels alone sufficient?
No. Fastening, ballast, distribution and the influence of wind are also relevant. The structural engineer must be able to assess the existing building construction for the proposed situation. A change to the mounting system or ballast plan may require new coordination.
Related structural topics
Your project location
Provide the building address and share available drawings and photographs. Discuss whether a site survey is needed and which travel or investigation costs form part of the commission.