Should solar panels be installed away from the roof edge?

Installing away from the roof edge reduces wind loading on the panels and makes them less likely to be damaged or even torn off in a storm. I looked at five different manufacturers of solar roof mounting systems and was able to find Australian installation guidelines for four of them.

Can solar panels be mounted on a roof?

Mounting solar panels on a roof surface to create a solar power system is known as rooftop solar mounting. Solar panels can't be put on a roof without first having mounting brackets installed.

Can solar panels be installed on an inadequate roof?

Without proper assessment, installing solar panels on an inadequate roof could lead to structural damage or even collapse, posing significant safety risks. Solar panel maintenance and lifecycle are important aspects of owning a solar energy system.

Can solar panels be installed on rafters or trusses?

Whether your roof is constructed with rafters or engineered trusses, both can be good fits for solar panels. Both rafters and trusses provide significant structural integrity for a solar panel installation, and most solar companies have significant experience installing on both types of roof supports.

What factors should you consider when installing roof-mounted solar panels?

One of the most important factors when installing roof-mounted solar panels is the condition and structure of the roof. It’s vital that a roof be able to not only hold up the weight of the solar panels, but also withstand any wind loads that could pull on the roofing.

Are rafters a good fit for solar panels?

Both rafters and trusses provide significant structural integrity for a solar panel installation, and most solar companies have significant experience installing on both types of roof supports. To determine if your roof is a good fit for solar panels, it’s best to contact your local solar company.