Are solar panels suitable for old roofs?

You bought an old barn, a countryside house, or you live in a family home that has already seen a few generations. The charm is undeniable, but the question remains: Can my roof carry solar panels safely? It’s a common concern, but the good news is that in most cases, solar is possible even on roofs that are several decades old.

How heavy are solar panels really?

A typical solar panel weighs between 18 and 25 kilograms and covers around two square meters. The average weight for conventional residential panels therefore is around 11–12 kg/m², while heavier double-glass versions can reach 12–15 kg/m. For comparison, a layer of fresh snow can add far more weight to your roof in winter. Most pitched roofs in good condition can easily carry this additional load.

What can older roofs handle?

Most pitched residential roofs in Europe were built to carry permanent loads well beyond the weight of solar modules. A typical timber roof in good condition can often handle an additional 10–15 kg/m² without reinforcement. On top of the module weight, installers add around 1–3 kg/m² for mounting hardware. Flat roofs with ballast may require more careful planning, as the additional weight can be higher.

However, no two roofs are the same. The actual carrying capacity depends on rafter spacing, the age and condition of the roof deck, local snow and wind loads, and national building standards. That’s why a site inspection by a professional installer is always essential before installation.

Options for limited roof capacity: more power per panel is crucial

If your roof is older or has limited load reserves, EcoLife offers practical solutions. The single-glass panel is lighter and puts less strain on the structure. At 21.6 kg and measuring 1.80 × 1.13 meters, it translates to just 10.6 kg/m², which is below many double-glass designs. At the same time, EcoLife single-glass panel reaches up to 24.5% efficiency, producing up to 20% more energy per square meter than conventional modules. For older or smaller roofs, this means fewer panels are needed to achieve the same power output - and ultimately less overall weight on the building. That makes the single-glass EcoLife option especially attractive where weight is a limiting factor.

Only a professional assessment can confirm the load-bearing capacity of your roof. Speak with your local installer to find out what’s possible.