Around 10% of the total cost of a solar system is typically spent on mounting the solar panels (solar racking system). These structures allow the solar panels to be conveniently positioned at the correct angle to maximize power generation. Choosing and mounting the right racking system can be an effective way to reduce the risk of damage, and extend the life of your solar system.
Before installing your solar panels, decide whether you want a rooftop or ground mounted solar panel. In this blog, we will explore the different types of solar mounting systems and hopefully help you find the best solar racking for your project.
Solar panels for pitched roofs: fixed roof mounts
Most roofs are pitched at an angle close to the optimum angle for solar installation. In this case, a fixed roof mount is the most cost-effective option.
Tiled roof
The metal hooks are drilled directly into the rafters when installing solar panels on a pitched tiled roof. Solar panels are often mounted flush with the slope of an existing tiled roof, which may require removing and replacing some shingles. Finally, a weatherproof seal is applied around the hooks to keep the roof watertight.
However, this mounting method reduces air circulation around the panels, which can generate heat during operation, reducing efficiency.
Standing seam metal roof
There are numerous methods of installing solar systems on metal roofs, the specifics of which can affect installation costs and life expectancy. Solar panel mounts for metal roofs consist of two basic components: roof mounting brackets and solar panel fasteners. Depending on the circumstances and your personal preferences, you can install with or without rails.
Metal trapezoidal roofs
Self-tapping screws were used to secure the panels to the ridge beams of the metal roof, bringing the panels very close to the roof and minimizing the effects of wind. What’s more, as these clamps have a rubber backing the system is waterproof.
Solar panels for flat roofs
Tilt legs
When installing solar panels on a near-horizontal roof, tilt legs can be used to adjust the angle of the panels so that they are more perpendicular to the sun. Tilt legs can be adjusted to change the angle of the solar panels as the seasons change.
Ballasted roof mounts
Most rooftop solar systems have to penetrate the roof to be fixed to it. If you don't want to drill holes in your roof, you can use ballasted roof mounts. The weight of the ballast is distributed throughout the roof and the most important consideration is usually how much weight the roof can support.
Ground mount solar racking
If your roof is not suitable for a solar PV system and you have land available, ground-mounted solar panels are a good option. In some cases, you may have more land than roof space, so opting for ground-mounted solar panels means you can generate more solar energy. Ground-mounted solar panels are often a good installation solution for those who live in remote areas and want to install an off-grid solar system.
Fixed Ground Mounts
Standard ground mounts use a simple metal frame to support the weight of the rest of the system. Installing a fixed ground mount requires the use of a concrete foundation or ground bolts to securely fasten the mount to the ground.
Unlike adjustable mounts, fixed ground mounts have a fixed tilt angle for the solar panels. This angle is usually optimized based on factors such as latitude, sunlight, and seasonal variations.
Pole Mounts
A solar pole mount is a structure used to securely attach solar panels to a pole or vertical surface. This provides greater ground clearance, which is particularly useful in areas with high levels of snow that can accumulate on the ground below the array. The steep angle of the pole mount naturally aids snow removal as the weight of the snow causes it to naturally slide off the surface of the panels.
Track
By following the path of the sun, a solar tracker ensures that your solar panels are always facing the sun. This maximizes energy production throughout the day. There are several types of solar trackers, including single and dual-axis trackers.
We only recommend trackers for large commercial systems or in rare edge cases where space efficiency is a key consideration in the system design.
