Types of solar panel mounts
Solar panels are a renewable and sustainable energy source, but it is important to mount them properly to ensure their efficiency and safety. There are several types of solar panel mounts , each with advantages and disadvantages.
In this article, we'll walk you through the most commonly used types of solar panel mounts to help you choose the one that's right for you.
1. Fixings on sloping roofs
THE roof fixings are used for How to keep solar panels in place on your home's roof or your building. There are several types of roof fixings, each designed for different types of roofing and framing.🏠
Roof mounts are convenient because they don't do not take up floor space and are relatively easy to install superimposed (i.e. the tiles remain in place to ensure the waterproofing of your roof). Indeed, installing your solar panels on your roof allows you to allows to use an available and unexploited surface . However, roof fixings can have two disadvantages: The first is to mount on the roof, which is not accessible to everyone, the second is that the inclination of the panels will be that of the roof and not 35% (the ideal value for maximum production throughout the year).
To choose your binding, you will need to take into account the type of roof covering to choose the appropriate fixings (low-curved mechanical tiles, flat mechanical tiles, steel trays, fiber cement, scale tiles, slate, etc.). No problem, on Oscaro Power, when you configuration , you can customize your fixings according to the type of your roof.
There are two types of solutions for fixings on sloping roofs with tiles :
- Classic fixings on the rafter (all fixings except ESDEC). In this situation, the hook or screw used to secure the frame and the panels are fixed directly into the rafters under the tiles.
- Fasteners that pinch tile + batten: These are more suitable for truss frames.
2. Roof terrace fixings
Although easy to assemble, the roof terrace fixings can be complex to implement. Indeed, they require a re-sealing and time to put them in place.
Many systems are not efficient. However, we have selected two efficient systems to allow you to install your solar panels on your roof terrace, which can be found on the site Oscaro-power.com :
- Among our most efficient systems, we offer you our weighted aluminum system (S Dome) , an extremely simple to install and highly durable roof terrace fixing system.
- You also have the option of choosing weighted bins of the type Renusol , a very simple and quick assembly system. However, the availability of this product has been complicated for several months.
3. Ground fixings
Ground fixings are ideal for those who have sufficient space available on their property.
It is possible to use weighted solutions as is done on a flat roof, but with the disadvantage of only having a slight inclination (generally 10° or 15°).
You can also opt for fixings on more varied supports such as steel posts, concrete foundations and ground anchors. Each of these types has its advantages and disadvantages and the choice will depend on the configuration of your home, your exteriors and the requirements of the project. Ground-mounted solar systems are easier to maintain. However, it is recommended to raise the panels to avoid shading from vegetation and flying stones.
- Solar panels can be mounted on more inclined brackets that would be the equivalent of posts driven into the ground. Like our fixing solar panels to the ground – GSE Ground System .
- If you want to make your own support (wood, metal, etc.), there is a universal attachment without hooks which allow you to install panels on the support of your choice.
- THE solar trackers are also a type of ground fixing, but which allows for sun tracking. Their very high cost and the complexity of implementation mean that Oscaro Power no longer offers them. Small systems with trackers are not profitable although tracking increases production by 30% on average. This type of solution is profitable on large solar systems, but is too expensive for smaller systems.
If you want to know what to consider before choosing your solar battery, our last article deals with the subject.
4. Fixing on shelters or pergolas
Installing your solar panels on a shelter or pergola is a very aesthetic And practical . A fixing system for your original installation!
- To allow you to fix solar panels in a very aesthetic way on a pergola or shelter with a wooden structure your creation , Oscaro Power has specially developed a fixing system called Oscaroof . In addition, the sealing system is made to fit the traditional wooden frame of your design!
5. Facade fixings
Facade mounts are used to attach solar panels to one of the facades of your home. They allow you to maximize the use of available space and take advantage of sunlight without taking up floor space. These mounts are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel to withstand the elements.
They are fixed directly to the facade of the house using dowels or bolts. There are different types of facade fixings. In addition, you can use this type of fixing as a sunshade, which allows you to create shade in summer when the sun is high in the sky, while keeping solar gain in winter. This solution is often used for bioclimatic houses.
- Sunshade fixing : The sunshade fixings are extremely easy to put in place , they are fixed with brackets or with a type solution multi-angle .
- Vertical fixing: The vertical fixings are placed in parallel to the facade with rails fixed directly to the wall . A solution of the type K2 speedrail allows such assemblies. The disadvantage of this type of fixing is that the vertical angle causes a loss of around 30 to 40% of annual production compared to a 35° inclination.
In summary, there are many types of solar panel mounts that can be tailored to your situation and needs. It is important to consider sun exposure , roof slope , the nature of the coating , the space available and the budget before choosing the appropriate fasteners.
Choosing your type of fastener is an important choice, which is why our Oscaro Power experts are available to answer all your questions.
