types of fixings

There are several types of fixing for solar pv, after an initial survey of your property, Freewatt can recommend the best solution for your project.

On roof
The solar PV modules are installed above an existing roof. The roof tiles stay in-situ to conserve the integrity of the roof. Each roof anchor is fixed to the roof trusses and either a tile is engineered to fit over it or a lead flashing is installed. This is our preferred method of installation to a tiled roof as it ensures that there would be no problems with water ingress.

In-Roof
The solar PV modules form the roof covering. The modules essentially fixed directly to the roof timbers and the tiles are integrated to the edge of the array using a flashing kit similar to a skylight window. In-roof installations give a more integrated appearance on the roof but a slightly less efficient as they cannot cool as well in sunny conditions.

Flat Roof
Flat roofs present an unusual problem as the roof should not be penetrated to ensure the roof remains weather proof. There are a number of solutions we can employ depending on the roof covering. The most common method is to use a ballasted fixing.

Ground mounted
We install solar PV away from buildings and on a purpose built framework. This offers an excellent solution if your roof is not suitable, and also ensures that the panels are installed at an optimum facing.

We prefer to use a rammed post that does not require any foundations. This means the installation is more environmentally friendly and the ground can be reverted back to its previous use after the >25 year life. Ground mounted systems can be made any size from a domestic 4kWp to a commercial 5MW solar farm.

Building Integrated
Silicon wafers forming the solar PV module can be integrated into the fabric of a building. Solar PV can be integrated into roof tiles, floor tiles, walls, window canopies and the windows themselves. Building integrated PV tends to carry a higher cost than conventional PV.