SUNBEAM INNOVATIONS
Flat roofs are common on modern homes and townhouses, particularly in the Chicagoland area. Installing solar on a flat roof (often covered in TPO, EPDM, or modified bitumen) requires a completely different engineering approach than a pitched roof, primarily because standing water and heavy snow loads pool on flat surfaces.
For most flat roof installations in Illinois, SunBeam Innovations utilizes a ballasted mounting system. Instead of drilling into the roof membrane and risking a major leak during the spring thaw, the solar panels are attached to heavy, aerodynamic racking trays. These trays are weighted down with concrete blocks. The sheer weight keeps the system securely locked in place, even during severe winter winds, without a single hole being drilled.
Because flat roofs lack a natural pitch, panels laid completely flat will lose efficiency and accumulate heavy snow. Our ballasted racking systems are engineered to tilt the panels at an optimal 10-degree to 15-degree angle. This captures the Midwestern sun perfectly while allowing snow and rain to slide off naturally.
To protect your flat roof's membrane from the weight of the concrete blocks and racking, we place thick, protective rubber slip sheets underneath the entire ballasted system. This ensures the solar array rests safely on the roof without causing any friction damage.
Our engineers will build a custom solar blueprint engineered for your operation — backed by 30-year linear warranties and Tier-1 equipment.
