Built for the Storm: How BC Solar Designs Carports & Ground Mounts for Ohio’s Heavy Snow

If you live in Columbus or anywhere across central Ohio, you know snow isn’t just a light dusting; it’s a force to be reckoned with. At BC Solar, we design solar systems that stand up to everything winter throws at them.

Whether it’s a sleek solar carport or a rugged ground-mounted system, we engineer for real-world weather, not just ideal conditions.

Why Snow Load Ratings Matter

Every solar array has to carry the weight of whatever lands on it, and in Ohio, that means snow. A foot of fresh snow can weigh up to 20 pounds per square foot. Wet snow? Even more. If your system isn’t designed with this in mind, you risk:

• Sagging panels

• Structural damage

• Electrical faults

• Performance loss

We don’t take that chance. Every carport and ground mount we install is structurally rated to handle your location’s snow load and then some.

How BC Solar Builds Smarter

Here’s how we make sure your system is ready for winter:

🧱 Ground Mounts

• Tilted for snow shed – Panels are angled to help snow naturally slide off.

• Heavy-duty footings – Deep concrete piers prevent frost heave and keep your array steady.

• Wider row spacing – Allows airflow and maintenance access, even in snow buildup.

🏗️ Solar Carports

• Steel-framed strength – Designed like a building, not a tent.

• Integrated water management – Melted snow is diverted safely.

• Dual-purpose – Provides vehicle cover while generating energy.

Built to Code and Beyond

We follow the 2021 International Building Code and local Ohio regulations. That includes:

• Structural load analysis

• Wind and snow load compliance

• Engineer-stamped permit sets

When you work with BC Solar, you’re not getting a generic setup; you’re getting a system designed specifically for your site, your goals, and your environment.

FAQs About Snow and Solar

Does snow reduce solar output?
Yes, temporarily. But snow slides off faster than you'd think on a well-tilted array. Plus, solar panels can absorb some heat and start melting snow on their own.

Do I need to clear snow off my panels?
Usually not. In most cases, it’s safer to let it melt naturally. We can design the tilt and spacing to support that.

Can carports collapse under snow?
Not ours. Our carports are overbuilt to exceed snow load requirements and provide long-term safety.

Done Right. Done Once.

Solar in Ohio isn’t just a summer thing. Your system should deliver energy and peace of mind year-round. BC Solar designs carports and ground-mounted solar with resilience in mind, so your investment keeps paying off, no matter the season.

Want to see if your site is solar-ready for winter? Call us at (614) 442-9700 or visit bc.solar to schedule a site assessment.