Equipment and components
Mounting structure
Also known as: panel mounting, racking, solar structure.
Definition
The mounting structure is the set of supports that fixes the panels to the roof or the ground safely and with the right orientation. It has to withstand wind and weight for the whole life of the system without compromising the roof's watertightness.
It is the line item that varies most between quotes and the one that causes the most problems when it is done badly. A sandwich metal roof, clay tiles, a flat concrete slab and a ground mounting all demand different anchoring solutions, with different materials, calculations and costs. Two proposals both saying 'structure included' does not mean they are offering the same thing.
The two real risks are wind uplift and leaks. The first is controlled with a load calculation suited to the area and with sufficient anchors; the second, with sealing solutions and profiles appropriate to the type of tile. On the Colombian coast, corrosion is added to that: a salt-laden environment demands anodised aluminium and stainless steel fasteners, not generic profiles.
The structure also sets the gap between the panel and the roof. That air gap lets the module ventilate and run cooler, which translates into somewhat more output, especially in hot climates. Mounting flush to the roof saves material and penalises performance.
The essentials of Mounting structure
- The type of roof determines the anchoring solution and much of the cost.
- It has to be calculated against the wind loads for the area.
- In a salt-laden environment: anodised aluminium and stainless fasteners.
- The gap from the roof ventilates the panels and improves their performance.
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Frequently asked questions about Mounting structure
Can the structure damage my roof?
A well-executed mounting should not, because it uses anchors and seals suited to the type of roof. Problems appear when penetrations are made without sealing properly or generic profiles are used. It is worth checking the state of the roof before installing: repairing under the panels afterwards costs far more.
Can panels be installed on the ground?
Yes, and on farms or industrial sites with land available it is often the best option: it allows optimal orientation and tilt, makes maintenance easier and makes good use of bifacial modules. It requires foundations, fencing and a longer cable run to the connection point.
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