Corrugated Roof Solar Panel Mounting Brackets
Installing solar panels on metal roofs with standing seams is straightforward. You can easily mount the modules directly onto the seams, eliminating the need to drill into the roof. However, if your roof is corrugated, the profile lacks the necessary strength to support the mounting system on its own. In this case, you must secure the brackets using screws.
This post will guide you through the various bracket options available for corrugated roofs and provide other essential information you should consider.
Corrugated Metal Roofing Explained
Corrugated panels feature a distinctive U-shaped wave pattern and are categorized as exposed fastener panels. This means the panels secure directly to the underlying frame or substrate using visible fasteners. The look of these panels can change depending on the rib height and width. To create corrugated metal, manufacturers feed a metal coil through a roll-forming machine, which stamps the material into the desired wavy pattern.
Corrugated metal roofs are favored in both commercial and residential settings. They offer a cost-effective alternative to other metal roofing types, reflect significant amounts of sunlight and heat, and surpass asphalt roofs in durability and lifespan.
Despite these advantages, a notable disadvantage of corrugated roofs is their numerous exposed fasteners. These fasteners, although treatable for increased protection, require periodic inspections every few years. This ensures the washers remain intact and the fasteners stay tight. Additionally, each exposed fastener is a potential point where leaks can develop over time.
This is a video discussing corrugated metal panels and standing seam metal roofs. You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0_RAGzI15I
Suitable Solar Mounts for Corrugated Roofs
A range of solar racking options is available for corrugated roofs. Some racks are designed to attach to the ridges, while others fix into the valleys. The type of mount you'll need varies, depending on the roof's shape—trapezoid or sinusoidal.
L-Feet Hanger Bolt
Mibet L-Feet Hanger Bolt
The L-feet hanger bolt is particularly suited for use on corrugated or trapezoidal metal roofs. This bolt can be mounted on wooden rafters or steel purlins, using L-feet and plates. Mibet's L-feet feature rubber gaskets to seal against water leaks, saving you from the hassle of applying sealants. Because the roof is constantly exposed to the elements, we use corrosion-resistant AL6005-T5 aluminum for the brackets and fasteners to extend the system's lifespan. Want more details about our L-feet? Click here!
How to Install Solar Panel Mounts on a Corrugated Roof?
1. Safety Preparation
● Ensure all installation personnel have proper safety training and qualifications.
● Equip everyone with safety gear: harnesses, ropes, and non-slip shoes.
● Check the weather forecast and avoid working during rain or strong winds.
2. Site Survey and Measurement
● Inspect the roof thoroughly to confirm its structural integrity and load-bearing capacity.
● Measure the roof's dimensions, slope, and orientation to plan the optimal panel layout.
3. Mark Installation Positions
● Based on the design plan, mark where the brackets and solar panels will be installed on the roof.
● Double-check the markings for accuracy to prevent errors during installation.
4. Install Bracket Fasteners
● Use specialized fasteners (bolts, clamps) to secure the brackets at the crests of the roof's corrugation.
● If drilling is needed, drill holes carefully and apply waterproof seals or gaskets to prevent leaks.
● Tighten all fasteners securely but avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to the roof materials.
5. Assemble the Bracket System
● Follow the manufacturer's instructions to assemble the horizontal and vertical beams of the bracket system.
● Use a level to ensure the brackets are properly aligned horizontally and vertically for a flat panel installation.
● Inspect all connection points to confirm they are secure.
6. Install Solar Panels
● Carefully transport the solar panels to the roof, avoiding scratches or damage.
● Secure the panels to the brackets using appropriate clamps.
● Adjust the panels to the correct tilt angle and orientation for optimal solar energy absorption.
7. Electrical Connections
● Have a qualified electrician connect the cables between panels according to the design (series or parallel).
● Install the inverter, distribution box, and other electrical equipment, ensuring compliance with electrical safety standards.
● Ground the system properly to prevent risks from static electricity or lightning.
8. System Testing
● Check all mechanical and electrical connections for tightness and correct wiring.
● Turn on the system and monitor voltage, current, and power output to confirm normal operation.
● Record test results for future reference and maintenance.
If any steps are unclear or you lack experience, consider hiring a professional solar installation team. Professionals have the knowledge and skills to complete the installation safely and efficiently.
Benefits of Using Solar Brackets on Corrugated Metal Roofs
When you install solar panels on a metal roof, choosing the right mounting system not only eases the installation process but also helps protect the roof from damage. Many installers favor hanger bolts on corrugated metal roofs. This choice minimizes the need for drilling into the roof while ensuring the solar panels are securely fastened. This choice becomes even more pertinent in areas susceptible to hurricanes.
Here are several benefits of using corrugated metal roofing solar panel brackets:
1. Strength and Longevity: Corrugated metal is robust and built to last. It holds up against severe weather conditions like high winds, torrential rains, and snow. As a result, the brackets provide a reliable foundation that maintains the stability and safety of the solar panels over the years.
2. Simplicity of Setup: These brackets are not only straightforward to install but also low-maintenance. Whether you're a homeowner or a business, if you're looking to get solar panels up without a fuss, these brackets make an excellent choice.
3. Affordability: Opting for corrugated metal for your roofing needs is already a wallet-friendly choice. Utilizing the same material for solar brackets can further lower the costs associated with solar panel installation.
4. Improved Energy Efficiency: The reflective nature of corrugated metal helps in minimizing heat absorption by the building. This reflective property enhances the building's overall energy efficiency, which can significantly reduce your energy costs.
5. Flexible Compatibility: Whether you have small or large solar panels, or various types, corrugated metal roofing brackets are adaptable. Their compatibility with different solar panel models and sizes makes them a versatile option suitable for various installation requirements.
Fall Protection
When you're setting up on corrugated or trapezoidal metal roofs, fall protection requires a different approach. Since corrugated roofs lack the standing seams necessary for clamping roof anchors, you must attach safety devices directly. This is very important when working on pitched roofs, where the risk of falling is heightened, especially for those accustomed to installing on composite shingle or tile roofs.
Installers need to use a fall protection anchor tailored to the specific type of metal roof they are working on. Importantly, this anchor must not compromise the roof's integrity by causing leaks after its removal.
Although installing on a metal roof might require more attention and patience, taking these extra steps ensures that no roof type will hinder the secure mounting of solar panels.
Why Trust Us?
As a leading provider in the renewable energy sector, Mibet delivers reliable metal roof PV mounts and systems for large-scale solar power plants worldwide. Installing solar panels on various sheet metal roofs, including trapezoidal, corrugated, and standing seam types, becomes straightforward and secure with our rails, clamps, and system components. Rather than compromise the durability, service life and weather resistance of your original solar roofing system, our engineers would tailor the design according to your requirements on structure, appearance and cost.
