Choosing the correct roof kit is important.

Written By: Roger Published In: Mounting Systems Created Date: 2015-01-23 Hits: 7379

A description of the different methods of attaching modules to different roof types.

 

 

 

 

 

Choosing roof kits

When surveying new potential installations the type of roof mounting system is a critical part of the design.

NuVision Energy has been designing PV roof mounting systems for many years and we can help in the process of identifying the correct type, size and orientation of your installation.

Roof mounted PV is always dictated by the size and orientation of the roof but the many types and styles of roofs can be usually be catered for.

Type

These fall into the flowing categories:

On roof – Most common type comprising rails supported by roof hangers and sits on top of the roof covering (tiles slates etc.)

In roof – Specialised system where the roof cover is removed and frames are installed to carry the PV modules and the roof cover is replaced over water proof flashing to make a watertight seal. The modules sit in the roof and itegrated.

Flat Roof – Usually a free standing frame system that comes in many angles and forms to fit the roof type. These systems are usually ballasted as opposed to fixed.

Free standing Frame – These systems are usually used to mount larger arrays in fields and can be designed to carry the modules in most combination of height and width.

Size and Orientation

Remember that with all pitched roofs there should be and area of 200mm all around the edge of the roof into which modules should not be mounted, this is to reduce the sheer force of the window loading which is at its greatest at the edge of the roof. Therefore the number of modules will always be reduced to allow for this.

Flat roofs have their own formula for calculating the module free zone – this will depend on the roof height and the wind zone in which it is situated.

NuVision Energy supply rail lengths to support 2,3 and 4 modules which helps reduce the number of joints on the roof and when designing we optimise the system to the least number of rails.

The modules can be mounted in either portrait or landscape orientation but the rails will need to be mounted vertically when in landscape orientation to meet regulations.

Manufacturers

NuVision Energy currently work with Van der Valk for roof, flat roof and free standing frames.

Working with Van der Valk NuVision Energy can also produce a wind loading calculation for your specific installation. There system has also passed the UK MCS specification which although not relevant at this time demonstrates their commitment to quality.

GSE have also been producing quality integrated roof frames at competitive prices. We are able to produce designs and quotes for these systems in portrait and landscape. 

Roof kits don’t have to be complicated but the right choice and information is essential.