Innovative Solar Panel Fixing
Since it's been discovered that sunlight can produce photovoltaic energy, and was able to demonstrate it, we have been trying to find more efficient ways of harnessing solar power. There are many types of photovoltaic technology in the US, but the most popular and widely used is the crystalline silicon solar cell.
There are many options available to fix solar panels on buildings. This page provides information on solar panel fixing options for developers, architects, builders, and homeowners who are interested in fitting panels.
Options to Fix Solar Panels on Buildings
Each option has been grouped into one of the following categories. These are In-roof and solar tile, on the roof, flat roof, standing seams, ground mounts, single ply, trapezoidal, Sun Trackers, and custom structures.
In-roof
This system is ideal for new constructions or re-roofs. Many solar companies in Arizona are experts in fixing it. The slightly higher cost of the mounting system can be offset by the savings on roofing fabric (slates and tiles). These systems are popular because of their aesthetic appeal. You will likely lose about 3% to 5% performance due to the decreased ventilation.
Metal trapezoidal roofs
Metal trapezoidal roofs are common in commercial buildings. The rails are attached to the metal roof ridges using self-tapping screws. To ensure a weather seal, the base of the rails is covered with a waterproof membrane. To minimize wind loading, the Solar PV panels are clamped to rails.
Solar PV Tiles/Slates
Today, there are a few slates- or tile-shaped solar panels on the market. The Tesla Solar Roof slates, which are still in production, are expected to be available in the UK in 2020/21. For release dates, keep an eye on our newsletter. Here you can combine your roof fabric with either solar PV tiles or slates. They attach to the roof the same way that tiles or slates do.
On-roof
On-roof solar is also called a retrofit solar array. It involves the installation of solar panels on top of the roof. Solar Installers temporarily remove tiles and attach brackets to the roof. The brackets are then fixed to the rails.
Therefore, panels are placed on top of rails and fixed using clamps.
The cheapest way to install solar panels is on-roof. You have many layout options and it's very flexible.
Flat roofs
Flat roofs can be achieved in many ways. The most important thing is how much weight the roof can hold.
Console Bins
These bins can be used for both flat and ground roofs. A strong roof structure is necessary as you may require a lot of ballast. The picture below shows them mounted on a sedum roofing, which is the perfect solution.
Mounting systems East/West
This system has become extremely popular in recent years. The ballast requirement for an East/West system is extremely low as we can mount the panels back-to-back. This reduces wind resistance. These panels can be used to put more panels in the same area, which makes sense.
Ground Mounted Solar
Solar panels can be installed on the ground. It can be installed on roofs that have limited space or where there is ample ground space.
Ground-mounted solar is very popular with farmers and landowners. It also suits homes with large gardens.
It is easy to put together. There are many options. However, the ground-mounted frame that is mechanically attached to concrete slabs poured into the ground is the best. Below are photos and a drawing that illustrates this method.
Once the mounting system is in place, the solar panels are glued to rails and then clamped down just like normal.
Solutions for custom mounting
Mounting solar is possible in many ways. As long as you have enough space to mount solar panels, there are plenty of options.
Sometimes more experts are needed. Advosy Energy is able to work with partners to create other types of mounting solutions, made of steel, aluminum, or similar.
You could build a steel structure to hold solar panels or make a whole roof out of them. Solar panels are also great for shelters, canopies, carports, and other purposes.