Adding solar panels to warehouse roofs

Solar panels have become a familiar sight on residential homes, neatly fixed to roofs where they’ll catch most sun. But the opportunity for clean energy is just as big for businesses, particularly the vast roofs of warehouses and other industrial buildings. DSA have helped lots of these businesses take advantage of solar energy, so we wanted to share the key things to think before putting solar panels on a warehouse roof.

Why warehouse roofs are perfect for solar energy

Solar energy for warehouses is fast catching on because they combine vast, unobstructed surface area with the demand for high daytime energy usage. Large-scale commercial solar installations take advantage of the flat or gently sloping roofs to create areas of rooftop solar panels, optimised for maximum sunlight exposure.

But the real benefit is that these unused spaces suddenly start saving businesses money and generating a significant volume of clean, renewable power on-site, reducing electricity costs and carbon emissions. Very quickly it becomes clear why solar power for warehouse roofs is a smart, sustainable investment for companies seeking long-term operational efficiency.

Considerations of warehouse solar installations

Solar panels are heavy so before installation the roof’s integrity needs to be checked – that’s where we come in. We can carry out a structural survey to assess roof condition and structural load capacity. If the survey confirms adding solar panels is feasible, then you can get quotes for installation costs and research if there are any local incentives-it’s quite common for there to be grants for solar panels on commercial buildings in the UK. Making these investigations at the start will help ensure that a commercial solar system is cost-effective, safe and long-lasting.

Steps to take before installing solar panels

A move to solar energy isn’t cheap so it’s good to understand the solar energy return on investment. Here’s our advice on the practical steps to follow before installing solar panels on commercial buildings:

• Hire a qualified structural engineer or surveyor: The team at DSA will make a professional assessment of the roof to confirm if it can safely support your design of commercial solar panels and mounting equipment.
• Evaluating roof reinforcement options if needed: If the survey reveals that extra support is needed, we can help design a solution to strengthen the roof before installation, avoiding delays and ensuring compliance with guarantees and safety standards.
• Collaborating with solar installers for design optimisation: There are many types of solar panels for commercial use so spend the time researching and speaking with various suppliers before making a final decision.
• Regular monitoring and maintenance after installation: We’re big advocates of ongoing maintenance in all scenarios including solar panels, so that your roof and the commercial rooftop installation enjoys a long lifespan.

Common structural risks in warehouses

These are the most common risks we identify when working with a client considering solar for warehouses:

• Weak or aging roof trusses and beams, which may not be up to taking the added weight of solar power panels.
• Water damage, corrosion or rot in steel or wooden structures, again reducing load-bearing capacity.
• Excessive roof load from existing equipment. Fitting solar panels could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back-or the warehouse roof!
• Potential impact of large solar panels for warehouses on roof dynamics, such as wind uplift or snow build up.

Types of structural surveys for warehouse solar projects

A structural survey is vital before a commercial solar panel installation, particularly before any investment is made in solar panels for commercial buildings. A typical survey will assess:

• Load-bearing capacity: To make sure the roof can hold the best commercial solar panels design and mounting systems.
• Roof condition: Identifying any weaknesses that could lead to failure.
• Age and materials: An older warehouse may need reinforcement or repair before installing commercial solar panels.
• Previous modifications: Any work done previously may need changing or replacing to ensure suitability of new commercial solar panel systems.

Whilst a structural survey does carry a cost it is essential to mitigate risks, optimise costs, and importantly, to ensure a high solar energy return on investment.

Insurance and liability considerations

It’s important that commercial solar panels are installed in a compliant way to avoid any problems further down the line:

• Local building codes and planning permission: Make sure your commercial solar installation meets legal standards-it might even qualify for a commercial solar panel grant.
• Health & safety considerations: As in all general construction projects, roof and electrical work must follow proper safety protocols to prevent accidents.
• Insurance and liability: Make sure you’re covered against potential structural or electrical issues related to solar power for warehouse systems.

Key benefits of pre-installation structural assessments

• The cost of fitting solar panels is all you want to pay for so by carrying out a detailed structural survey you can prevent costly repairs or structural failures in the future.
• You can be sure you purchase the best solar panels for commercial use for your roof and location for maximum efficiency-take your time to research the most reputable commercial solar companies.
• A well investigated and planned commercial solar system is more likely to achieve funding investment if needed.
• A robust survey helps facilitate planning approvals and insurance coverage for commercial solar installations.

Interest in solar panels for warehouses is fast growing, and it’s no surprise why. Businesses can achieve significant energy savings, environmental benefits and a reliable solar energy return on investment. It’s clear that investing in commercial solar panel installation is not only smart for the environment but also smart for operational efficiency and cost management.

Get DSA involved early and we’ll carry out a detailed structural survey of your warehouse roof, giving you the clarity and evidence you need before moving ahead with your project.