Photovoltaic panels represent a valid solution for producing clean and environmentally friendly energy. But a problem that may arise during installation is of the fixing method based on the roof covering. To solve this matter, in this article we will give you all the necessary information based on our experience at Solar Panel in Australia.
Requirements of the roof for the photovoltaic system
One of the possible solutions for installing photovoltaic panels is to place them on the roof of your house or condominium. The other possible choice is that of balcony photovoltaic which is much cheaper and especially suitable for apartments in residential complexes.
However, there are some precautions to keep in mind to get the maximum result in terms of efficiency from your system, and they are: roof conditions, orientation and size. Without forgetting to also consider the relevant regulations.
A photovoltaic system does not require masonry works, but it is essential that the roof is structurally solid, with a southern exposure and an inclination ranging from 10° to 35°. The roofing material also affects the feasibility of a photovoltaic system, in fact a thatched or curved roof prevents its installation.
As regards the overall dimensions, however, it is necessary to take into account the number of modules that you intend to install, the type of roof and the possible presence of obstacles (chimneys, antennas or shaded areas).
Finally, there is one last characteristic to evaluate when choosing how to fix the photovoltaic panels, that is, the type of roof covering: flat roof and sloping roof.
Fixing photovoltaic panels on the roof with tiles and reinforced concrete slab
In this type of roof the water sealing function is carried out by the tiles and for this reason it is not possible to remove them.
We therefore proceed simply by chipping away the tiles for the space necessary to fix the support brackets with the dowels directly to the reinforced concrete slab, without compromising the insulating function. The guides that will support the photovoltaic modules are then anchored to the brackets.
Fixing photovoltaic panels on the roof with tiles and brick or wooden slab
This solution is similar to that described, but the structure cannot be anchored to the slab and can present complications if the roof beams are also not suitable to support the fixing bolts. In this case it will be necessary to install a support in the attic with a counter plate on which to anchor the load-bearing structure of the system. It is, therefore, a huge job and the most expensive solution among those proposed.
How to fix photovoltaic panels on flat roofs?
Flat roofs represent, from a theoretical point of view, the ideal solution for installing a photovoltaic system. This is because it will be possible to fix the photovoltaic panels on the roof with an optimal degree of inclination (around 30°) to obtain maximum efficiency in the production of electricity.
In this type of installation, after loading the panels on the roof, we proceed to identify the east-west direction along which to fix the metal triangular frames (mainly stainless steel, galvanized or Aluminum), equipped with tracks on which the panels will rest photovoltaic. This will allow the panels to be oriented towards the south.
This can be done in two ways suggested by our professionals at Solar Panel Sydney which are as follows
1. Fixing photovoltaic panels using dowels
Holes are drilled on the roof and the support structure is fixed using special dowels. Subsequently, sealant is applied to the drilling points to ensure water tightness and prevent humidity from forming inside the home.
2. Fixing photovoltaic panels without drilling
As an alternative to structures that can be installed with dowels, there are solutions of pre-assembled frames with less inclination, which involve the use of ballasts to ensure stability of the support system.
Finally, the panels that will be raised above the roof are mounted on the supports. Once all the electrical connections have been made, the inclination is adjusted to ensure the best irradiation of the photovoltaic panels.
Sloped or pitched roofs, however, require a completely different installation and anchoring system. Here are some systems by which photovoltaic panels are anchored on sloping or pitched roofs.
Sloped pitched roofs are the classic roofs of houses usually covered with tiles. In this case, the metal support frame is anchored directly to the roof thanks to hooks but the way in which the fixing is carried out varies according to the type of roofing. These are the main systems:
Fixing photovoltaic panels on the roof with corrugated and tile roofing
In this type of roofing of a house, the insulating function is carried out by the inulin while the tiles have only an aesthetic function. To fix the photovoltaic panels, proceed by removing the tiles in the installation area and applying the panel mounting brackets directly onto the corrugated panels. Finally, the photovoltaic modules are fixed to the omega guides using clamps, and the work is concluded with the execution of the electrical connections.
Fixing photovoltaic panels on the roof with corrugated sheet metal covering
New homes increasingly feature this type of roofing which allows for quick and economical installation of photovoltaic panels. The module support profiles can be fixed directly to the sheet metal without using any other components other than an insulating sheath against humidity.
Fixing integrated panels in pitched roofs
The "architecturally integrated" photovoltaic system solution may be necessary due to landscape constraints of the municipality of residence, but it can also be chosen for an aesthetic issue. In this case, in fact, the system replaces the tile covering of the roof, integrating perfectly with the profile of your home.
The disadvantage is that the integrated solution involves a certain dispersion of energy due to overheating of the system.
Fixing photovoltaic panels: conclusions
A photovoltaic system is an ecological and absolutely acceptable choice, but as you have seen, there are many technical constraints linked to roof covering.
If you want to better understand what to use for fixing photovoltaic panels on your roof, contact one of the Top ten Solar Companies in Australia, Tindo Solar. You will receive qualified advice based on your needs, with advice on the best materials and supports to create your system
