Key Takeaways:
- There are several types of solar mounts, and the best style for your home will depend on the size & type of your roof.
- Roof reinforcing strengthens your roof in preparation for installing solar panels and mounts.
- Fixed mounts are stationary, while tracking mounts follow the sun throughout the day to maximize exposure.
- Some common ways to reinforce a roof include adding additional supports, installing flashing, and applying sealant around the mount.
When installing solar mounts, there are a few things you need to take into account – one of which is reinforcing your roof.
Roof reinforcing strengthens your roof in preparation for installing solar panels and mounts. This is typically done by adding additional support beams or braces and ensuring that your roof can comfortably handle the weight of the boards and mounts.
Reinforcing your roof before installation can help to prevent any damage or issue down the line, so it’s something you want to consider.
There are a few areas of your roof that you’ll want to focus on when reinforcing, and these will largely depend on the mount you’re planning on using.
What are Solar Mounts?
Solar mounts are structures that support solar panels on roofs. They are typically made of metal or concrete and can be attached to the roof with screws, bolts, or adhesives.
Different Types of Solar Mounts
1. Ground Mounts
Ground mounts are the most common type of solar mount. They are typically made from steel or aluminum and can be either fixed or tracked. You can use ground mounts on any roof, including asphalt shingles, tile, metal, and flat roofs.
2. Tracking System Mounted Racks
Tracking system mounted racks are one of the most efficient solar mounts. They help maximize the sunlight that hits the solar panels by tracking the sun. This, in turn, increases the amount of electricity that is produced. In addition, tracking system-mounted racks are less likely to obstruct views or interfere with landscaping. As a result, they are a great option for homeowners who want to leverage solar power without compromising on aesthetics.
3. Top-Of-Pole and Side-Of-Pole Mounts
Top-of-pole mounts allow you to adjust the angle of your panels to maximize sun exposure. However, they can be quite expensive and difficult to maintain if you don’t have easy access to the top of the pole.
On the other hand, side-of-pole mounts are easier to install and take up less space.
4. Roof Mounted
A roof-mounted rack is a great option for most homeowners. This solar mount attaches directly to your roof, making it stable and secure. It also keeps your solar panels close to your roofline, which helps to maximize the amount of sun they receive. In addition, roof-mounted racks are typically very easy to install, and they’re also relatively affordable. So, if you’re interested in adding solar panels to your home, a roof-mounted rack is worth considering.
There are different types of roof mounts available:
- Metal roof mounts – attach to the roof with special clamps that do not penetrate the metal, which helps protect the roof’s warranty.
- Flat roof mounts – attach to the roof with special pads that distribute the weight of the solar array evenly over a large area, which helps protect the roof’s warranty.
- Asphalt shingle roof mounts – attach to the roof with special brackets that do not penetrate the shingles, which helps protect the roof’s warranty.
Areas Requiring Roof Reinforcing
1. Roof Decking
The first area that needs to be reinforced is the roof decking. This is the layer of plywood or OSB that makes up the roof’s surface. The decking will need to be strengthened to support the weight of the solar panels. You can have additional plywood or OSB or install metal strapping.
2. Rafters
The next area that needs to be reinforced is the rafters. These beams support the roof decking and provide structure to the roof. You can do this by adding additional lumber or by installing metal brackets.
3. Roof Sheathing
The third area that needs to be reinforced is the roof sheathing. This is the layer of material (usually plywood or OSB) attached to the rafters that provides a base for the roofing material (shingles, etc.).
4. Roof Flashing
The fourth area that needs to be reinforced is the roof flashing. This material (usually metal) is used to seal around openings in the roof, such as around chimneys and skylights. Suppose there are any gaps or cracks in the flashing. In that case, you should repair them before proceeding with the installation of solar panels.
5. Gutters and Downspouts
The fifth and final area that needs to be reinforced is the gutters and downspouts. These are used to collect and redirect rainwater from the roof. To prevent damage from runoff water, it is important that they be in good condition and properly installed.
Related: 5 Things You Need to Know About Going Solar
How to Choose the Right Mount
If you’re using a ground mount, the main area you’ll want to focus on is the point where the mount will attach to your home. This is done by drilling anchor bolts into your foundation. So, you’ll want to make sure that this area is extra sturdy.
Suppose you’re using a flush or tilt mount. In that case, you’ll want to focus on reinforcing the area around your gutters – as this is where most of the weight will be concentrated.
It doesn’t matter what type of mount you choose; reinforcing your roof before installation is always a good idea.
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Conclusion
We have discussed the areas of roof reinforcing that should be focused on before installing solar mounts. Ground mounts should have extra sturdy anchor bolts. In contrast, flush or tilt mounts should concentrate on reinforcing the area around the gutters. No matter what type of mount is chosen, it is always a good idea to reinforce the roof before installation.
Going Solar Doesn’t Have to Be a Headache!
Core Home Innovations serving Katy, TX, offers expert solar installation services that will take the stress out of the process for you. We know that making the switch can seem daunting, but our team is here to help you every step of the way.
You want your home to be more sustainable, and we want to help make that happen. With our solar installation services, you can reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bill at the same time. What could be better than that?
