MOUNTING SYSTEMS
Solar panels are traditionally roof mounted but there are a number of variations that can be considered depending on your individual requirements or circumstances.
Whichever system is deemed most suitable for your home, you can be assured that we only use high quality components from leading manufacturers. We will also only proceed after a full structural survey of your roof has been carried out but don't worry, wind loading calculations and structural surveys are taken care of as part of our standard service.
On-roof
Typical on-roof mounting systems are made up of brackets that fit underneath the tiles and are fixed directly into the rafters. These provide fixing points for rails to sit above the roof and panels are then fitted on top.
In-roof
In-roof mounting systems are generally made up of trays or flashing systems to divert the water behind the solar panels. A water barrier is fitted in place of the tiles and then brackets are fitted to accommodate the panels. In-roof systems are aesthetically more appealing than on-roof but are more expensive to install. However, this can be offset from the savings made on the cost of tiles for new builds and extensions.
Solar tiles
Similar to in-roof with the same benefits relating to aesthetics, solar tiles are suitable for new builds and extensions whereby the solar modules are fitted as part of the roof covering. These differ from traditional in-roof systems which channel the water behind the panels; rather, the water runs over the top of the solar modules acting just like roof tiles. The tiles are very specific in design and the system is not compatible with regular framed modules.
Flat roof mounting
Flat roof mounting is favoured on commercial premises or schools. Orientation can be optimised as they can be 'pointed' south for optimum performance.
A number of flat roof systems exist, many of the more popular systems now rely on ballast for free standing mounting. It's generally advisable to avoid penetrating the roof covering as water ingress over the long term could be a problem. Ballasting systems allow 'A' frames or trays to be positioned on the roof with concrete slabs or gravel to act as ballast. It is important to calculate wind loading for the system depending on location and ensure the structure of the roof is suitable to take the load.
It is possible to use low ballast systems which is achieved by 'tying' rows of panels together and using a lower pitch (10 to 15 degrees) to reduce wind loading, this also reduces yield slightly but only by a few percentage points so a good option if low ballast is desired.
Ground mounting
Ground mounting is favoured on commercial premises, farms and schools. Orientation can be optimised as they can be 'pointed' south for optimum performance.
A number of ground mount systems exist, generally using 'A' frames either fixed to a concrete slab, ballasted with concrete stones or 'ground hooks' which are installed deep into the soil to provide secure anchor points.
As with flat roof systems, it is important to calculate wind loading for the system depending on location, it is vital that sufficient fixings and/or ballast are installed to endure extreme weather conditions.
It is possible to use low ballast systems using similar techniques as for flat roof systems.
