Structural Considerations For Commercial Solar Installation
Businesses are taking up solar energy to cut energy costs, rev up their bottom-line, and benefit from green incentives. Indeed, solar installation has become more affordable than ever. Small start-ups and established enterprises are leveraging huge tax incentives while boosting their ROI.
Before you consider commercial solar installation, you cannot ignore the integrity of your structure. Before you calculate the actual installation costs, you must think about the reliability of the panels and the building's roof. Here are some structural considerations for solar installation in your business premises.
The Integrity of the Installation Platform
If you've decided to install solar arrays on your roof membrane, auditing its structural integrity can't be understated. You want your panels to last and offer energy efficiency. As such, you must contact a solar installation professional or a contractor to inspect and determine the viability of your roof's membrane. Upon installation, the roof becomes a platform for panel installers, repairers, and maintenance technicians. It's advisable to include a roofing specialist to help determine a roof system that adheres to building codes and appropriate panel attachment designs.
Solar Panel Attachment
Different types of solar panel attachments work well for different types of roofs. For this reason, your solar installation contractor must emphasize robust panel attachment to an existing roof system. It's crucial to consider wind uplift, speed, snow loads, and roof pitch, among other aspects. Before mounting the panels, a skilled contractor will ensure that the panels sit according to the expansion joints. They must ensure that the rack heights and penetrations don't block maintenance crews or emergency responders. It's important to factor in such details since they directly affect the lifespan of the roof and your panels.
Remaining Lifespan of the Roof
Your commercial building requires more renewable energy than the average home. The more panels you need, the stronger your roof needs to be. If you're undertaking a solar installation project to last you over the next few decades, you must evaluate the remaining roof's lifespan. If you had installed a commercial roof to last slightly less than a decade, it might not be strong enough to hold panels that have a longer life expectancy. It's advisable to engage a solar panel installation company that insists on roof reinforcement or replacement before installing the panels.
Pitch and Angle
Since the sun is always on the move, you must consider the pitch and general angle of your commercial roof. You should get a professional solar installation technician to help you decide on the perfect angle and roof's pitch. This way, your panels get maximum sunlight to generate the amount of power you need for your operations.
Reach out to a professional who provides solar installation services.
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