Flat roof System

[futurewired]

Hello all,

I have yet to install a flat roof system, a local snooker club is interested, can anyone give me and tips on spacing issues shading and approx how many panels can be fitted on a

10 m x 7m , 15m x 4m roof
What size of panels is best to go for as full poly are so big?

Any suggestions would be much appreciated

 

[Markc]

First stage is to assess if the roof can take additional weight. You need a structural engineer for that. If the roofs not strong enough then it will be a waste of time designing a system.

Rule of thumb for spacing between rows is 3 x the overall height and maintaining a perimeter edge to the roof as stated by each array system. Some are one meter and others can be more. Height of roof affects this also as it does ballast weight etc.

You don't say if the roof layout allows for south facing panels in parallel to the roof edge or if they will be diagonal across the roof.

10 x 7 would be 8 x 5 array size, 2 rows of 5 (ish) and 15 x 4 would be 14 x 3 array size so one row of 10 (ish). Using Poly 235wt panels 2350Kwp

 

[futurewired]

Thanks mark the roofs are south facing, and he has various other roof spaces to fit more panels,
am i right in saying (spacing) 3 x the overall height of the panel angle, e.g panel sitting at 40 degree would be 0.5m high so the next panel behind it would start no nearer than 1.5m
Thanks for your info much appreciated

 

[Markc]

Yep you got it. Overall height on angle and don't forget if the array lifts the panel meaning the lower edge of the panel isn't sitting on the deck you need to add this height to it. Self shading issues. This is just rule of thumb and some systems need more. Consoles are generally lower than standard flat roof mount systems and ballast is less but it is critical the roof is assess professionally as the additional weight is substantial. 60Kg per console for example. Another way is to use the roof hanger bolts but these do pierce the roof. Have a look at the Welsh slate roof posts and a picture of these are on there. May be an option if ballast weight is an issue.