PV Ballasts
ULAMEX supplies ballast mounting systems designed for flat roof photovoltaic installations where roof membrane integrity is critical. Our ballast holders — available in aluminium and hot-dip galvanized steel variants — allow secure module positioning without drilling, screwing or otherwise penetrating the roofing surface. Ideal for commercial and industrial buildings with EPDM, TPO, PVC or bituminous membranes.
Flat Roof Solar Mounting Without Roof Penetration
A ballasted solar mounting system uses dead weight — concrete blocks or gravel — to hold PV modules in position, eliminating the need for mechanical fasteners that pierce the roof membrane. This approach preserves the waterproofing layer, avoids warranty issues with roofing manufacturers, and significantly reduces installation time compared to anchored systems.
ULAMEX offers four ballast holder types tailored to different project requirements. Our aluminium ballast trays (including the "Z" variant for east-west dual-orientation layouts) are lightweight, corrosion-resistant and designed for pre-set tilt angles of 10 to 15 degrees. For projects requiring maximum structural rigidity, our hot-dip galvanized steel ballast holders — available with Magnelis coating for enhanced corrosion protection — provide a robust, long-lasting alternative.
All ballast trays are engineered to work with standard concrete blocks or gravel fill, distributing load evenly across the roof surface. The systems are compatible with PV aluminium mounting profiles in 40x40 mm and 45x40 mm cross-sections, enabling rapid assembly with standard T-bolt fasteners.
Commercial and Industrial Flat Roofs
Warehouses, logistics centres, office buildings and retail parks with flat or low-slope roofing. No structural modifications required — ballast systems sit directly on the existing membrane with protective EPDM pads.
Sensitive Membrane Roofing
Where roof penetrations would void the membrane manufacturer's warranty. EPDM, TPO and PVC roofs benefit from fully non-penetrating installation.
East-West Configurations
The aluminium "Z" ballast holder supports dual-orientation layouts that maximise roof coverage and deliver more consistent energy yield throughout the day.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Materials | Aluminium EN AW-6060 T6; Hot-dip galvanized steel (Magnelis) |
| Tilt angle | 10 - 15 degrees (fixed) |
| Orientation | South-facing or East-West dual layout |
| Compatible membranes | EPDM, TPO, PVC, bituminous |
| Ballast type | Concrete blocks, gravel |
| Compatible profiles | 40x40 mm, 45x40 mm PV profiles |
| Module compatibility | Portrait and landscape, up to 2200 mm |
| Standards | Eurocode wind/snow load calculations, EN 1090 |
As an EN 1090 certified supplier with over 38 years of experience in metal wholesale, ULAMEX delivers ballast mounting systems that meet the structural and material demands of professional PV installers. We supply components individually or as complete flat roof mounting kits — with Europe-wide delivery, mill test certificates and technical consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ballast weight is needed per solar panel?
Ballast requirements depend on wind zone, building height, roof edge proximity and module orientation. Typical values range from 8 to 25 kg per module. A structural engineer should validate the ballast calculation based on Eurocode EN 1991 wind and snow load parameters for the specific site.
Will ballast systems damage my flat roof membrane?
No. Ballast systems are specifically designed for non-penetrating installation. EPDM protective pads placed beneath the trays prevent membrane abrasion. The distributed load from concrete ballast blocks typically remains within the structural limits of commercial flat roofs (1.0-5.0 kN/m2).
What is the difference between aluminium and galvanized ballast holders?
Aluminium holders are lighter (easier handling, lower roof load), fully corrosion-resistant and ideal for standard installations. Galvanized steel holders — especially with Magnelis coating — offer greater structural rigidity and are preferred for high-wind zones or heavy-module configurations.
What tilt angle do ballast systems provide?
ULAMEX ballast trays are designed for fixed tilt angles of 10 to 15 degrees. This range is optimal for flat roof installations in Central and Northern Europe, providing good energy yield while minimising wind uplift forces and inter-row shading.
Can ballast systems be used on gravel roofs?
Yes. On gravel roofs, the existing gravel can partially serve as ballast. The trays are placed directly on the gravel layer, with additional concrete blocks added as needed to meet the calculated ballast requirement.
Are ULAMEX ballast systems compatible with large 400W+ modules?
Yes. Our ballast holders accommodate modules up to 2200 mm in length, in both portrait and landscape orientation. For specific module dimensions, contact our team for compatibility confirmation.
Does ULAMEX supply ballast systems wholesale?
Yes. ULAMEX is a B2B wholesaler supplying PV installers, solar distributors and EPC contractors across Europe. We offer volume-based pricing, pallet delivery and complete PV mounting component packages including profiles, clamps and fasteners.
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