Solar Ready Roof
You’ve done your homework. The math works. You’ve gotten financing, or accessed your grant funding. It’s just about time to install.
One contractor told you they won’t touch your roof because it’s too old. The other one didn’t say a word. The third one look at you funny when you mentioned what type of roof you have. This is extremely typical in the industry, and it stems from a lack of knowledge both on the roofing and the solar side.
There have been several bulletins posted by the Alberta Roofing Contractors Association which can be frightening if you are unsure of what some of the technical points are referring to. There have also been recent stories of roof warranties being voided by solar contractors carelessness on the roof. All these things can be scary, but like anything else in life, they can be easily avoided with proper planning.
https://arcaonline.ca/sites/default/files/TB-2017-05%20New%20Photovoltaic%20Standards%20r2_0.pdf
WHAT IS A SOLAR READY ROOF??
This one is easy- it depends who’s providing the roof warranty. Whoever is warrantying the roof will tell you what their expectations are for ‘overburden preparation’. Some manufacturers like Carlisle, have a brochure dedicated to making sure that their systems maintain warranty with a solar array on top. It’s as simple as following the instructions and communicating with the manufacturer reps in town.
Other manufacturers like Soprema actually have their own pedestal that integrates directly with the roof system. These products, when installed properly and on a compatible roof system make the solar installers job easy. It cuts out all the concern over whether or not the system will be compatible, as the manufacturer has taken that into their own hands.
https://www.soprema.ca/product/soprasolar-fix-evo-tilt-1667/
For sloped roofing, it is important to understand what system is in place. Most sloped roofs are a simple underlay and shingle makeup, but many roofs are far more complex. Again, communication with the warranty provider is most important. Most sloped solar mounts involve a pad that is drilled through the waterproofing, so it’s extremely important to understand how to properly re-seal those holes. If penetrating anchors can be avoided, such as S-5! clips onto a standing seam metal roof, that is always preferred. When penetrating systems are chosen, all flashing methods should be verified and approved by the roof manufacturer so as to maintain the warranty requirements.
HOW TO GET A SOLAR READY ROOF?
Reach out to Rocky Mountain Solar or Lynnwood Roofing Ltd. Our strategic partnership comes with nearly 30 years in the Alberta Roofing Contractors Association and 40 years of business. Together, RMSC and Lynnwood can design, install, commission, and warranty a roof and solar system that will be free of headaches and fighting between contractors.