Solar Panel Prep/Integration

Structural Solar Preparation

Solar panels add dead loads from equipment weight, live loads during installation, and dynamic loads from wind and snow accumulation. Before any panels go up, your roof structure must be evaluated for these additional forces. Many Chicago buildings—especially older construction—require structural reinforcement before they can safely support a rooftop solar array. Planning this work now prevents costly surprises when you are ready to install.

Solar-ready preparation includes verifying roof framing capacity, adding structural reinforcement where needed, and pre-installing mounting points at optimal locations. We coordinate conduit routing from the array location to your electrical panel, keeping runs hidden in walls or chases rather than surface-mounted across your deck or living space. For buildings with both solar and roof deck plans, we integrate both systems so panels and deck areas coexist without compromising either.

Building codes require specific setbacks from roof edges and ridges for fire safety access, grounding of all metal components, and proper electrical integration with your existing service. We work with solar installers or coordinate the entire project ourselves—from structural engineering and permit applications through final inspection. The result is a solar-ready building that passes code review the first time.