Where to install ballasted solar racking system
Aug 01, 2017
Where to install ballasted solar racking system
Working with the best players in the industry, we have seen some great solar projects on top of our roof systems. Unfortunately, many solar buyers and installers do not understand the interplay between the roofing system and solar. Most of us have heard a job sold with some variation of the line: “There are no penetrations so it does not affect your roof warranty.” When we at GAF hear that, we can be almost certain there will be a problem.
Choosing the Right Installer
A lot of solar installers take the roofing piece for granted or do not have the experience with roof top installations to understand the challenges of each roof. That is why choosing an EPC that is familiar with the roof,ballasted solar racking system such as Advanced Green Technologies, is crucial. The property owner should insist on a solar installer with genuine roofing experience. Here are some tips for choosing a qualified solar installer:
• Ask the installer about other rooftop installations they have completed.
• Make sure the installer is respected by roofing-system providers.
• Ensure the company has installed solar on multiple roofing systems using a variety of technologies.
• The installer should be able to discuss rooftop conditions, know how the roof drains, have a strong familiarity with wire management plans, provide roof replacement and repairs, take down and re-install a system during roof replacement and repair and can provide follow up maintenance services.
Proper Planning
If a property owner is considering solar, the roof system should be designed with the future installation in mind. Design considerations like slope or placement of drains and scuppers should be done to allow maximum solar coverage. The roof system should also be chosen to support solar. High-density cover boards, for example, should be used when solar will be installed. | |
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