How to Get Solar Panels on Your Roof: Safe and Efficient Methods

How to Get Solar Panels on Your Roof: Safe and Efficient Methods

Installing solar panels on your roof isn't just about securing them in place—it’s also about getting them up there without breaking your back (or the panels). If you're planning to DIY your solar project, make sure you consider this part of the process. 

 

Below, we outline the safest and most efficient methods to transport solar panels onto your roof while keeping both the panels and yourself intact. Safety comes first--always.
 

1. Two-Person Lift Method 

This is the good old-fashioned teamwork approach—one person lifts while the other grabs. The two-person lift method is best for single-story homes, and doesn't require too much equipment. 

 

As system size increases, this method becomes more difficult. Installing a smaller sized system means less panels;  a 6kW system, for example, only includes about 15 panels.

Steps:
  • One person stands on the roof while the other lifts the panel from the ground, using their shoulder for support (pro tip: using some padding can help prevent a sore shoulder later on).
  • The person on the roof grabs the top edge and carefully pulls it up.
  • Make sure to use gloves and proper lifting techniques to avoid straining your back or damaging the equipment.

Pros:

Simple & cost effective

Minimal equipment required

Cons:

Risk of dropping the panels if not handled correctly

Difficult for taller roofs or installations with a lot of panels

2. Ladder Slide Method

If you’ve ever slid a mattress up a flight of stairs, you already understand the principle here. By using a secured, padded ladder as a ramp, you can slide the panel up with a little less heavy lifting.

The most important part of this method is making sure your ladder is accurately padded with no gaps. This will help prevent any scratching on the panels' glass surface. 
 

Steps:
  • Secure a sturdy extension ladder against the roofline.
  • Place soft padding (such as foam, towels, etc) on the ladder rungs to prevent scratching. 
  • Lift the panel flat onto the ladder and carefully push it up. 
  • If a friend is helping, one of you can push from below while the other pulls from above. If you're working by yourself, you can carefully walk the panel up until you can rest it on the rooftop. 

Pros:

Reduces excessive lifting

Works well for individual installers

Cons:

Requires a sturdy ladder

Improper padding could lead to scratching

3. Rope and Pulley System 

Have a tall, multi-story house? Work smarter, not harder. This method significantly reduces the effort needed to lift panels onto higher roofs.

Affordable pulley systems can be purchased online or at your local hardware store. However, be sure to follow the directions and advisories when setting up and using one--you'll need a strong anchor point and soft ropes or straps to secure your panels without scratching them. 
 

Steps:
  • Secure a strong pulley to a stable point on the roof (like a secure beam or heavy-duty anchor point).
  • Attach ropes with soft straps or harnesses to the panel’s frame.
  • One person on the ground pulls the rope while another person on the roof guides and secures the panel.

Pros:

Reduces strain and risk of dropping

Ideal for lifting multiple panels efficiently without expensive machinery

Cons:

Requires additional equipment that you may not already have on hand

Needs at least two people to operate safely

5. Boom Lift or Crane 

If you’re moving a lot of panels, have awkward roof access, or are working on a large project, sometimes you just need to bring in the big guns. For many commercial installations, a boom lift or crane is used. 

 

This is not a common method for DIY installers, since it requires expensive equipment with licensed operators. 

Steps:
  • Hire a professional crane or boom lift operator (unless you’ve got a hidden talent/certification for operating heavy machinery—then, by all means, go for it).
  • Secure panels in a lifting harness, pallet, or platform.
  • Guide panels onto the roof so they can be unloaded and installed. 

Pros:

Best for high-volume lifting

Safest option for high buildings

Very safe and efficient 

Cons:

Highest cost

Requires professional operation

The Bottom Line: What's the Best Way to Get Solar Panels on Your Roof?

The best method for getting solar panels on your roof depends on your home’s height, how many panels you're installing, and your available equipment:
 

  • For small residential installations: A two-person lift or ladder slide is usually the simplest and most cost-effective option.
  • For multi-story homes and/or larger residential projects: A rope and pulley system can make the process safer and easier, with only a little extra equipment required. 
  • For large-scale and/or commercial projects: Hiring a crane or boom lift is the most efficient and safest choice. However, DIY installations of this scale are uncommon, and this method is not cost-effective for the vast majority of homeowners. 
      

No matter which method you choose, always prioritize your own safety. Use proper lifting techniques, secure your equipment, and work with a team when necessary. 

And remember—no solar panel is worth a trip to the emergency room, so take your time and plan ahead. 

 

If you’re planning a DIY solar installation, choosing the right panels and equipment is just as important as getting them onto the roof safely. Check out our article on the Best DIY Solar Panel Kits to find the perfect kit for your project. With the right tools and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to generating your own clean energy in no time!