A 19th Century Barn with a 21st Century Addition

This homeowner had an old barn that was well oriented to collect energy from the sun. This system was designed to produce all this homeowner's annual electrical needs.

The post and beam section of the barn was built to last and could easily handle the extra weight of this solar electric system. In fact, solar electric systems add very little weight to a structure. At most they add about 4 pounds per square foot. This is considerably less than a heavy snowfall or the weight of anyone who might be standing on the roof. It is of course important to be confident that a roof can handle the extra load. Most structures, both new and old, are built with sufficient strength to handle the weight. If in doubt, an engineering analysis of the roof can be conducted to ensure structural integrity.

Addtionally the installation of the panels protects the underlying roofing material. Whether it is metal or asphalt shingle, the existing roof will experience less heat and wind after the panels are installed.