When installing a solar panel system, the choice of racking is often easily overlooked, but in fact it is directly related to the safety and power generation efficiency of the whole system. A set of high-quality bracket should not only be able to withstand all kinds of bad weather, but also ensure that the solar panels maintain the best angle for a long time. So, in the face of a wide range of bracket products on the market, the average consumer should be how to choose? What are the advantages and disadvantages of roof mounting and ground mounting?
Types of solar racking and selection points
Solar mounts on the market nowadays are generally divided into two categories: roof mounts and ground mounts. Roof mounts are generally made of aluminum alloy or stainless steel, which are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, and are suitable for most pitched and flat roofs, while ground mounts are generally made of hot-dip galvanized steel, which have stronger load-bearing capacity and are suitable for large solar arrays. When choosing a mount, first consider the local climate conditions – windy areas need to choose a more wind-resistant mount, and snowy areas need to consider the weight-bearing capacity of the mount.
Adjustable mounts with tilt adjustment are also important. Fixed mounts are low-cost but limited in efficiency, while adjustable mounts are more expensive but can adjust the angle according to seasonal changes, significantly increasing power generation. Professional installers suggest that it is most practical to choose a bracket with a gross 12-15 degree adjustable range when the budget allows. In addition, the anticorrosion performance of the bracket should not be ignored, high-quality hot-dip galvanized layer thickness should reach more than 80μm, the best choice of stainless steel in coastal areas.
Comparison of the firmness of roof installation and ground installation
The advantage of roof mounting is space saving, especially suitable for residential and small commercial projects. Most of today’s roof mounting systems use a non-penetrating design, fixed by counterweights, which will not damage the waterproofing of the roof and provide effective stability. However, roof mounts are limited by the building structure, have limited load-bearing capacity, and are less convenient for later maintenance. In addition, tile roofs and metal roofs require different types of bracket fixings, and it is important to have a professional assess the condition of the roof prior to installation.
Ground mounting, while requiring additional land, offers significant advantages in terms of robustness. Ground mounts can be buried deeper into the foundation and are more resistant to wind, making them especially suitable for windy areas. In addition, the tilt and angle of a ground mounted system can be freely set, and the power generation efficiency is usually 5-10% higher than that of a rooftop system. For large solar projects, ground mounting also reduces maintenance costs and facilitates cleaning and servicing. However, ground mounting requires consideration of soil conditions, and loose foundations require additional reinforcement, which can increase installation costs.
Regardless of the mounting method chosen, professional installation is very important. A qualified installer will design a bracket program to suit the site conditions to ensure that each fixing point is wind resistant. When consumers shop for brackets, it is best to choose a branded product with certified credentials and keep a full warranty. Please note that a quality mounting system lasts for about 25 years, which is an important guarantee for long-term returns in solar investment.
