SUNBEAM INNOVATIONS
Flat roofs are incredibly common on historic Boston brownstones, triple-deckers, and modern townhouses across Massachusetts. Installing solar on a flat or low-slope roof (often covered in TPO, EPDM, or rubber membrane) 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 Massachusetts, 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 coastal wind events, without a single hole being drilled.
Because flat roofs lack a natural pitch, panels laid completely flat will lose efficiency and accumulate heavy New England snow. Our ballasted racking systems are engineered to tilt the panels at an optimal 10-degree to 15-degree angle. This captures the 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, 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 over its 25-year lifespan.
Our engineers will build a custom solar blueprint engineered for your operation — backed by 30-year linear warranties and Tier-1 equipment.
