If you are thinking about rooftop solar panel installation in Maryland, DC, and VA, you may have questions on exactly how it works. Some of the most common misconceptions about Maryland, DC and VA solar panel installation is that the solar panels will fall off the roof or be damaged with rain. However, this is simply not true. When a solar system is installed correctly it is both a source of energy and a protective blanket for your rooftop. The area of the rooftop below the solar system is protected from harsh elements such as UV rays, wind gusts, heavy rains and hail. The attachment mechanism to the rooftop also helps provide some waterproofing and uses a counterflashing method to shed water away.
Here are some of the most important components to Maryland, DC and VA rooftop solar panel installation:
- Roof Safety: First, the professionals working on your Maryland, DC, and VA solar panel installation will check your roof to make sure all shingles are intact. This is important to keep both your roof and your solar panels damage- free. Solar panel installation will not be able to proceed if the roof is damaged. After checking your roof, solar panel installation experts will install electrical wiring to connect to both your electrical panel and general powers system.
- Roofing basics: Once penetration areas are laid out, the installer will lay a roofing sealant on the roof. This is important for waterproofing and protecting your roof during Maryland, DC, and VA rooftop solar panel installation. Then, base plates, lag bolts and roof mount flashing will be installed. Roof mount flashing is a formed metal or elastomeric sheeting that is placed over top of the base plate and up under the shingle system to divert any potential water away from the lag bolt installation site.
- Racking Installation: Racking is the only component of the solar panel system that will be permanently attached to your roof. The point of racking is to provide a base for your panels and provide stability on your roof. Excellent racking is able to withstand high wind gusts and inclement weather with no problem. After racking is completed, the solar panels will be installed.
- Mounting: Your solar panel array will be mounted to a rail system. This is done by using a specially designed clip that can withstand winds up to 100mph. To ensure excellent mounting, the rail must be affixed to an L-foot, which is affixed to the roof with a bolted connection. Overall, the entire system must be permanently affixed to the existing roof system to make sure it can withstand maximum wind load ratings.
Install Your Rooftop Array Today!
At Prospect Solar, we are dedicated to educating our clients on every part of the Maryland, DC and VA solar panel installation process. From economic and environmental benefits to installation, we are here to make every step of the process as straightforward as possible.
Looking for Virginia, DC, and Maryland solar panel installation? Contact us at (703) 444-2447 to get started!