FAQ – at a glance
all questions and answers

All module types offered are high-quality glass-glass modules. The solar cells and conductor tracks are embedded between two panes of heat-strengthened glass (TVG) embedded.

Technical differences at a glance

The main differences lie in the construction and details of the individual manufacturers:

GridParity modules (GP)

• Module thickness: approx. 5 mm

• Weight: approx. 20–23 kg

• Appearance: depending on the light, the solar cells may appear in slightly different shades of blue

• Transparency and cell pattern vary depending on the model

Kioto modules

• Module thickness: approx. 7 mm

• Weight: approx. 27–30 kg

• Appearance: more homogeneous, more uniform cell colour on the rear side

• Very calm and uniform appearance

Other differences

Depending on the manufacturer, there are also differences in:

• Cell size and number of cells

• Cell arrangement

• Degree of transparency

• Country of manufacture

• Warranty conditions

Quality & experience

We have had very good practical experience with all the modules we offer.
You can find the technical details and specifications at any time in the respective datasheets.

Conclusion:
All modules are technically high-quality and suitable for use – the main differences are in appearance, weight and design details, allowing the right system to be selected for each project.

pvDach e.K. owns the exclusive trademark rights and has the solar modules manufactured according to its own quality and production specifications.

GridParity modules are distributed and sold exclusively through pvDach.

GridParity modules will remain permanently available from us.

Large PV modules offer maximum area and efficiency – but require professional installation:

• No unsupported installation over large spans

• Installation in accordance with the installation instructions is mandatory

• Additional substructure reliably protects against damage from snow loads

Our proven standard sizes (e.g. 1134 × 1723 mm) are optimally matched to our mounting system and ensure high stability and durability.

Our modules are made of TVG (heat-strengthened glass). This glass is strengthened and specially designed for use in photovoltaic systems.

Can the modules be cut to size?

No – cutting or subsequently adapting the modules is not possible.

The modules are a technical and electrical component (power generator / generator). Any alteration to the structure would completely compromise functionality, safety and approval.

Module construction

The modules consist of:

• two panes of heat-strengthened safety glass (TVG)

• with the solar cells and conductor tracks

• between them, bonded by a special laminating film (lamination)

Material properties

• The glass of the GP modules is matt-finished and can visually resemble plastic or acrylic glass

• The low weight and feel often create this impression

• In fact, however, it is clearly high-quality safety glass

Important:
The difference becomes obvious at the latest if the glass is damaged – the typical fracture pattern of glass then becomes visible.

Conclusion

The modules are a precisely engineered glass-glass system and must not be cut or modified.
Various module sizes are available for your project and are already optimally matched to our mounting system.

The 3 m² limit applies to conventional roof installations (e.g. tiled or trapezoidal-sheet roofs with an inclination of less than 75°).

For your project, we assess the appropriate solutions individually – naturally taking all current regulations into account.

Our bifacial, frameless modules feature a modern, high-quality design.

• The rear side is black, while the glass used is transparent.

• The solar cells themselves are black and provide an elegant appearance.

• Depending on the incident light, the cells may have a slight bluish shimmer – a typical effect with bifacial modules.

There is also a small type label on the rear side for product identification.

Our double-glass modules are already ready for connection and have integrated cables with connectors on the underside.

Wiring the modules together

• Each module has MC4 connectors (male/female)

• The cables are long enough to connect to the neighbouring module

• The connectors are simply plugged male into female, until a distinct “click” can be heard

👉 Only then is the connection watertight and permanently electrically safe.

String formation (series connection)

Connecting the modules creates what is known as a String (DC circuit):

• The modules generate direct voltage (DC)

• The current flows within the closed string

• The inverter later converts this into alternating current (AC) 

Connection to the inverter

To complete the circuit, two additional connection cables are required:

• one cable from the inverter to the first module

• one cable from the last module back to the inverter

This securely completes the entire PV circuit.

Installation note

• The plug connections can be installed without tools

• Depending on the connector type, cables are cut to length, stripped and screwed into the connector

• Each connector comes with clear instructions included

Safety note:
With professional installation and a fully assembled system, there is no risk of electric shock.

Conclusion:
The wiring is designed as a simple plug-and-play system, enabling quick, safe and straightforward installation of the module rows.

There is one clear rule during installation: The connection side of the modules must face downwards.

How the modules are constructed

Each module has at least two junction boxes, which are permanently attached to the module.

• The junction boxes are bonded to the module

• The PV cables are sealed watertight with resin inside the box

• The cables are fitted with the appropriate connectors (MC4)

Important installation requirement

The side with the junction boxes and cables must always face downwards.

This ensures:

• safe water drainage

• protection of the connections

• reliable long-term operation of the system

Conclusion:
The connection side is clearly defined and must face downwards during installation in order to ensure technical safety and durability.

No – no additional connector is required.

Our modules are already ready for connection and have integrated cables with MC4 connectors.

This means they are ready for installation and connection – without additional adapters or special connectors.

Important:
The electrical connection to the building's mains supply must nevertheless be carried out by a qualified electrician .

Our frameless modules are very stable across their surface and are structurally designed for use in patio-roof or carport applications.

• The surface stability is very high and suitable for the intended use.

• Particular attention must, however, be paid to the sensitive glass edges, which must be protected during transport, storage and installation.

Installation & walkability

After professional installation, the modules can generally be walked on carefully.
For additional protection, we recommend using Styrodur or similar load-distributing boards .

Important notes

• During loading and storage particular care is required to prevent damage to the edges.

• Even minor damage to the edges can impair the stability of the entire module.

Conclusion:
Very robust modules across the surface – with sensitive edges that must be handled with appropriate care.

The modules can withstand high loads across their surface. Critical situations include:

• Impacts on edges or corners (e.g. concrete, paving, gravel, steel)

• improper transport or storage

• vehicles that are too small or unsuitable for collection

Even a small impact on the glass edge can cause breakage – just like with any other pane of glass.

Important note for collection

If collecting the goods yourself, please make sure you have:

• a sufficiently large loading area

• no metal eyelets or sharp edges in the load compartment

• secure fixing to prevent slipping during braking

Conclusion:
The modules are very robust across their surface and can be walked on – what matters most is careful handling of the sensitive glass edges.

Yes – the modules can generally be walked on.

Our glass-glass modules are very stable across their surface and can be carefully walked on by a person of normal weight (up to approx. 100 kg) without breaking.

Important notes on walking on the modules

• Ideally, the modules should be fully supported along all four edges

• Support only along the long sides is possible, but results in greater deflection

• With invisible microcracks breakage may nevertheless occur in individual cases

Our recommendation

To protect the surface and structure as effectively as possible, we recommend using the following when walking on the modules:

• 🧱 Styrodur boards (XPS rigid foam) or

• 🪵 thin OSB boards

These distribute the load evenly and also protect against scratches caused by dirt particles on shoes.

Unfortunately, for data protection reasons, we are not permitted to disclose the private addresses of our customers.

However, we are happy to offer you the opportunity to view a sample canopy including modules, as well as additional modules, at our warehouse.

Address of our warehouse:
Holz Guggenberger
Haimelkofen 5
84082 Laberweinting

Please let us know briefly by email before your visit at info@pvdach.com, so that we can schedule our warehouse staff accordingly.

We have also recently put a sample canopy on display at “Gartenmöbel Thomas” in 84544 Aschau am Inn. It is fitted with KIOTO modules and can be viewed during regular opening hours:
https://www.gartenmoebel-thomas.de/oeffnungszeiten/

If you have any further questions, we are always happy to help. Our office can be reached on working days from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

No – we do not offer an on-site inspection at your home.

We are not a conventional trade or construction contractor and therefore cannot carry out site visits throughout the entire German-speaking region.

Yes – individual adaptations are possible.

Our standard substructures are based on proven systems, but can be adapted to your project in many respects.

Typical adaptations include, for example:

• Position and number of supports

• height of the structure

• roof pitch

This allows the system to be optimally adapted to your structural conditions and requirements.

Important:
Larger changes or special dimensions are coordinated with you during the planning process to ensure structural integrity and functionality at all times.

For pitched roofs, we recommend a custom-made ridge seal installed by a sheet-metal specialist.
This gives you a permanently secure and visually clean solution that is perfectly matched to your roof.

Complete your patio roof or carport with a perfectly matched gutter – for clean and reliable drainage.

You can choose from various high-quality options:

• semicircular or modern rectangular design (box gutter)

• durable titanium zinc or colour-matched finishes

The selection is individually tailored to your requirements during the planning process for your PV roof.
Complete drainage systems including accessories are also available separately on request.

Our well-designed system ensures effective water drainage:

• Approx. 95% of rainwater is drained directly over the module surface

• Residual water is channelled away specifically through the H-rails

For optimum results, we use high-quality modules and precise workmanship – especially at the transitions.

Important: In extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, complete watertightness cannot be guaranteed due to the design.

For patio roofs, we recommend modules with approx. 40% transparency.

The reason is simple:
With lower transparency, not only does the patio area become significantly darker – the living spaces behind it are also heavily shaded, especially in summer.

With greater transparency you benefit from an optimum balance:

• Pleasantly bright patio area

• Significantly more daylight in adjacent interior rooms

• Reduced but still effective shading

• High level of living comfort – indoors and outdoors

In practice, this option has proven to be the best solution for most applications .

For carport roofs, we recommend modules with lower transparency. (0–20%)
Here, function takes priority over light:

• Better heat protection for the vehicle

• UV protection (paintwork, interior)

• The brightness underneath is less relevant

• Higher output

Our standard carports are designed for snow load zone 1 .

Important structural note

If your construction project is located in a different snow load zone, the structural calculation must be recalculated individually and the structure adapted accordingly.

This particularly affects:

• Load-bearing capacity of the substructure

• Sizing of the components

• possible adaptation of the entire system

Conclusion

Our standard solutions are structurally designed for snow load zone 1.
For higher snow loads, project-specific planning is essential in order to ensure long-term safety.

The snow and wind loads of our modules are specified precisely in the respective technical datasheets .

As a guideline:

• 5400 Pa corresponds to approx. 530 kg/m²

What does this mean in practical terms?

“Pascal (Pa)” is a unit of pressure. For practical purposes, it can be converted as follows:

• 5400 Pa = 5400 newtons per square metre

• This corresponds to approximately 530 kg load per square metre of module surface for the snow load

• 2400 Pa wind load, corresponding to a wind speed of approx. 120–160 km/h  

👉 Put simply:
One square metre of module can theoretically support a weight of around 530 kg of evenly distributed load .

Important in practice

These values apply under laboratory or standardised conditions and mean:

• evenly distributed load (no point loads)

• professional installation in accordance with the installation instructions

• correct support of the system

Conclusion

Our modules are designed for high snow and wind loads and therefore offer very high mechanical load capacity.
You can always find the specific values for each module in the corresponding datasheet.

Yes – a foundation is absolutely required.

Due to its large roof area, a patio roof or carport acts like a surface exposed to wind and suction forces. Similar to a sail, considerable forces can arise and must be safely transferred into the ground.

Why is a foundation so important?

The foundation serves not only to support the dead weight of the structure, but above all to

• absorb horizontal wind forces 

• safely transfer suction forces during storms 

• stabilise the entire structure permanently

Especially with the increasing occurrence of strong wind events professional anchoring is crucial for safety.

Important to know

• A patio surface such as paving stones or slabs is not sufficiently load-bearing

• Kerbstones or edging are also unsuitable for this purpose

• Fastening only into the surface (“anchoring into paving”) is not permitted and not safe

Construction of the foundations

The foundations are to be constructed on site by the customer in accordance with our specifications.
We will provide you with the exact dimensions and requirements as part of the planning process.

Conclusion:
A correctly constructed foundation is the basis for the safety and durability of your entire structure – and is absolutely essential.

There are two important points to consider in advance to ensure your project can be implemented smoothly:

Foundations
The foundations are constructed on site by you or by a specialist company commissioned by you.
The reason is that every carport and patio canopy has individual structural and ground requirements.

• The exact type of foundation is determined on a project-specific basis

• Concrete blocks are only suitable in exceptional cases

• The final design is generally specified by a structural engineer

Of course, we will provide you with all the necessary specifications and dimensions as part of the planning process.

Electrical installation
The electrical connection of your PV system must also be carried out on site by a qualified electrician.

• Integration into the existing building electrical system is required

• Coordination with the conditions on site is necessary

We recommend commissioning your local electrician for this, as they already know your building's electrical system and can integrate the PV system optimally.

Our tip:
We discuss the details of the foundations and electrical installation with you personally or directly during the planning process – ensuring that everything is perfectly tailored to your project.

Whether planning permission is required for your carport or patio canopy depends on the applicable state-specific and municipal regulations . These can vary considerably from region to region.

Therefore:
Please contact the responsible building authority or local municipality directly to find out which requirements apply at your location.

Responsibility for the building application and approvals generally lies with the building owner, as the regulations vary depending on the federal state, municipality and local interpretation of building law .

Building application

We cannot submit a building application on your behalf.
Please therefore clarify in advance directly with your responsible building authoritywhether approval is required for your carport or patio canopy.

Structural calculations

For our standard systems, we provide a standard structural calculation .
This covers the usual versions of our structures.

If your project deviates from these standards, an individual structural calculation is required. This must be prepared separately and is not included in the quotation.

Important planning note

If it only becomes apparent during the project that planning permission and therefore additional structural calculations are required, this may result in additional costs for

• planning

• structural calculations

• possibly additional material

.
In such cases, the total price may increase accordingly.

Recommendation

We therefore expressly recommend that you clarify the approval requirements definitively before the project startsin order to ensure planning certainty and a smooth process.

We supply and plan your solution as a complete system – consisting of a carport or patio structure, PV modules and accessories (or modules only, if required).

To ensure the project can be implemented reliably, we need the following from you:

• the required dimensions

• a sketch or floor plan (hand-drawn is also possible)

• if applicable, photos of the situation on site

On this basis, we plan your structure individually, including:

• required heights

• roof pitch

• colour selection

• other technical adaptations

Coordination is simple and efficient by email and telephone.

Important planning note

As individual planning, technical drawings and adaptations require time, we charge a planning fee.

Viewing modules

You are welcome to view a selection of our modules at our warehouse by appointment.

📍 Location: Haimelkofen 5, 84082 Laberweinting

Important:
For data protection reasons, we do not disclose the addresses of private customers or reference projects.

Conclusion:
Planning on the basis of the information you provide allows us to implement your project efficiently and individually without on-site appointments.

With us, you get more than just products:

• ✔ Modules approved for overhead installation

• ✔ Detailed installation instructions (download & video)

• ✔ Support with planning permission

• ✔ Individual construction drawings & foundation plans

On request, we can take care of the complete implementation of your roof – including the substructure.

Our mounting system is designed for safe and efficient installation:

• Maintaining optimum rafter spacing

• Perfectly matched components

• Maximum stability when installed correctly

Our team installs complete roof solutions including the substructure (wood, aluminium or steel). Modules supplied without a substructure must be installed by the customer using our instructions. 

The choice of the correct mounting system depends directly on the module type used.

🔩 Framed modules

For conventional Framed modules we use our H-rails.
These provide stable and secure support for the module frames and enable a clean, continuous installation.

🪟 Frameless modules (glass-glass)

For frameless glass-glass modules a special rail system with cover rails and end clamps is used.

This system ensures:

• secure fixing of the glass edges

• a visually clean integration

• optimum protection of the module edges

Conclusion

• H-rails → for framed modules

• Rail system with cover rails & end clamps → for frameless modules

This ensures that every module is installed correctly, safely and to a high visual standard.

We generally recommend installation lengthwise in the direction of water flow.

This installation method offers several advantages:

• ✔ better routing of cables and connectors

• ✔ optimised water drainage across the module surfaces

• ✔ lower risk of deflection

• ✔ an overall technically cleaner and more durable solution

Conclusion:
Installation in the direction of water flow provides the best combination of function, safety and system durability.

Yes – installing the modules yourself is entirely possible.

Our modules are installed in a similar way to laminated safety glass (VSG) and are specifically designed for simple and safe installation . With our coordinated mounting system, installation is efficient and reliable.

To provide you with the best possible support, you receive:

• 📄 a detailed installation instructions (PDF)

• 🎥 a step-by-step installation video

In addition, we provide all important project-specific data, such as:

• suitable rafter spacing

• individual specifications for your construction project

Important:
For a permanently safe and stable result, the installation instructions must be followed.
Our matching mounting system ensures maximum stability and makes installation significantly easier.

Yes – a qualified electrician is required for the electrical connection of your PV system.

The electrical installation is carried out on site and includes in particular:

• the integration into your existing building electrical system

• the registration of the system with the relevant authorities

• the coordination with the conditions on site

As every property has different requirements, professional implementation is crucial for safety and functionality.

Our recommendation:
It is best to commission your local electrician. They know your building's electrical system and can integrate the PV system optimally.

Good to know:
Suitable inverters for your system are available directly from our shop – ideally matched to our systems.

We offer several secure and flexible payment methods:

• 💳 PayPal (plus 2% fee)

• 🏦 Bank transfer (prepayment)

• 🧾 Klarna

• 💳 Credit card

Collection

For collection on site, the following options are also available:

• 💵 Cash payment

• 💳 Payment by debit card

📍 Collection address: Haimelkofen 5, 84082 Laberweinting

Important note

Purchase on account is not possible, as the goods must always be paid in full before dispatch or production.

We offer flexible shipping solutions – tailored to the product size and delivery location:

📦 Small parts

• Shipping: 15,00 €

📦 Accessories (parcel shipping)

• Shipping: 39,00 €

🚚 Mounting systems

• Length 2.00 m – 3.40 m (incl. packaging): 80,00 €

• Length 3.41 m – 6.00 m (freight forwarding): 229,00 €

🇦🇹 Shipping to Austria (mounting systems)

• from 2.00 m: ab 90,00 € (depending on length)

• up to 4.00 m: 279,00 €

🔲 Glass modules (freight forwarding)

• Germany: ab 229,00 €

• Austria: ab 279,00 €

⚡ Express shipping (glass modules, Germany)

• 349,00 € – for particularly fast delivery

Shipping to other countries

Deliveries to other countries are also possible.
Shipping costs are requested individually from the freight carrier.

Collection

Alternatively, you can also collect your order yourself:

• 📍 Address: Haimelkofen 5, 84082 Laberweinting

• 💶 Flat-rate fee: 50,00 €

• 📅 By appointment only

Important:
The modules are handed over for collection loose (unpackaged) .

We reliably dispatch in-stock items within up to 14 working days after receipt of payment.

The configuration fee applies when your order is planned and prepared individually outside the online shop – for example for quotations, call-backs or personal project planning by our office.

What is included?

The fee covers the additional planning and coordination effort, in particular:

• Preparation of your individual installation plan

• Coordination of all system components (rails, strips, accessories)

• adaptation to the specific dimensions of your project

• technical preparation outside the standard online-shop processes

Your advantage

This structured planning process allows us to:

• the keep module prices in the online shop as low as possible

• a ensure a precise, project-specific selection 

• avoid errors during installation or material selection

Conclusion

The configuration fee ensures that your system is tailored precisely to your project – including all necessary components and an individual installation plan for smooth implementation.

We need your telephone number for two simple, practical reasons:

📞 Quick coordination regarding your order & planning

Short questions about the order or quotation configuration can be clarified directly and without delay.
This saves time during planning and prevents misunderstandings.

🚚 Contact for the freight carrier

The freight carrier also requires a valid telephone number, in order to coordinate delivery reliably – for example for:

• arranging delivery appointments

• delivery notifications

• questions about the delivery on site

Conclusion

Your telephone number is used exclusively for the smooth processing of your order and delivery – quickly, directly and without unnecessary detours.

Our office is available on working days from 08:00 to 17:00 for you.

📧 Contact by email

You can send us a message at any time to:
info@pvdach.com

Your enquiry will be processed as quickly as possible during business hours.

Conclusion

We are personally available to assist you on working days and respond to your enquiries reliably and promptly.

We do not have any other sales outlets or external sales partners. Complete roof installations are carried out exclusively by our own team.