Did you know that solar panel installations reduced carbon emissions by 224 million metric tons in 2023 and that a new solar system was installed every 39 seconds during that year? These statistics are certainly enough to convince most people to embrace the power of solar energy systems soon.
Are you among those ready to join the green energy movement? Solar installations are an expensive investment, so you’re doing the right thing by conducting some research first.
Get started with this introduction to solar panel racking systems.
About Residential Solar Racking
Racking is a vital component of home solar panel installation, yet we rarely give it a second thought since it’s barely visible in the average solar system.
Solar racking systems hold the solar panels in place on your roof and also play a role in optimizing your panels’ energy production. Adjusting the orientation and tilt of your solar racking has a direct impact on how much sunlight the panels can absorb.
The key components of solar racking systems are:
Flashings
Flashings are usually a thin, rectangular piece of aluminum sheeting that covers the racking screws and screw holes. In this way, they prevent water from penetrating your roof.
Mounts
These components are also known as anchors. They attach directly to your roof rafters through the flashing and hold the racking system in place.
Rails
The mounts hold up the rails that support the solar panels. These long aluminum tracks are installed vertically or horizontally on the roof plane for maximum solar efficiency.
Rails also provide a place to run the solar panel system’s wiring.
Clamps
Clamps secure the solar panels to the rails. Careful installation ensures that your solar panels stay in place during inclement weather.
Grounding
Grounding is vital to protect your solar panels. It saves them from harm during a system malfunction or power surge.
Types of Solar Panel Racking Systems
Every roof presents a unique solar situation, so you can expect some variety when choosing solar panel racking. These are the different types of solar panel mounting options available:
Roof-Mounted Racking Systems
Rooftop-penetrating racking systems are the original method of fastening solar panels to a roof. They’re installed by drilling holes into the roof and securing the racking system in place.
Careful sealing prevents leaking, and most installers will provide you with a leakage warranty to cover the risks.
Non-penetrating roof mounts are specialized roof mounts suitable for clay and metal roofs. Some of these mounts are shaped like roof tiles, allowing installers to replace a few sections of your roof with these special brackets and install your solar panels on them.
Seam metal roof mounting systems use clamps to avoid drilling into a metal roof.
Ground-Mounted Systems
If your home’s roof is covered in shade most of the day, a solar installer might suggest a ground-mounted system. While these are often a more expensive option initially, they’re the best way to maximize efficiency by allowing maximum sunlight to penetrate the PV panels.
The latest solar racking technologies allow your solar panels to follow the sun’s movements, increasing their productivity even more.
Choosing the Best Solar Rack Solutions
Now that you’re aware of some of the details surrounding solar racking, you’re in a better position to make good choices. These are the main things to consider before installing solar panels and racking:
Aim for Good Aesthetics
Although the majority of a solar racking mount remains hidden by the solar panels, there are some instances where you might need to take their appearance into account.
HOAs are usually the most pedantic when it comes to questions about the beauty of solar panel aesthetics. If your home is located in one of these communities, it’s important to investigate all the rules concerning solar installations first.
In most places, HOAs aren’t allowed to bar renewable energy installations, but it’s worth checking to avoid ruffling your HOA board’s feathers. In most cases, your installer will be able to help you comply with any suggestions regarding aesthetics.
Prevent Leaks
Solar racking systems are designed to reduce the risk of electrical fires, rot, and mold growth by creating a gap between the solar panels and your roof. While this allows debris and water to flow down the roof freely, it does involve the use of screws and fasteners.
These elements create small holes in your roof that can promote water penetration unless they’re sealed properly.
A professional installer will ensure that your home is as watertight as it was before they installed your panels. They’re well-versed in local building codes and best practices for waterproofing using the correct flashing and sealant choices for your type of roof.
Easy Installation
You must discuss your solar racking choices with your solar installer and make sure they’re familiar with the materials used. Most installation companies are reluctant to work with new materials as they can’t guarantee their effectiveness.
As with any building project, time is money when it comes to solar installations. Figuring out how to install a foreign type of racking system will take longer, resulting in higher labor costs.
Always speak to your installer about your preferences and trust them to find the best solution for you.
Optimize Your Roofs Attributes
Ultimately, your roof’s configuration has the biggest say in choosing the best solar panel mounting option. You might need to take chimneys and other protrusions into account or work around hips and valleys.
During your initial consultation, a professional installer will take all these features into account and design the most suitable racking arrangement for your home.
Information Is Power When It Comes to Solar Technology
Despite rapid advances in solar energy solutions, basic components like solar panel racking systems are still vital to make the most of this new technology. These less celebrated structures can ensure your solar panels last longer and produce more energy, helping you maximize the benefits of your investment.
Browse our blog for more of the latest technology news or bookmark our site and check back regularly for interesting updates.
