Solar Ready Roofing

On-site power generation in the form of photovoltaic (PV) arrays is becoming increasingly common as designers and architects try to meet green construction or net-zero energy goals. Preparing your roof to accept a PV system in the future is also becoming more and more common.

In general, a longer warranted and/or more robust roof system is the overall goal before installing a PV system. A normal roof may see some light foot traffic once or twice a year from the building owner or maintenance personnel. But a PV installation may need more frequent inspections (i.e. after significant storms, after heavy snowfall, monitoring, etc.). So starting out with a thicker membrane, a cover board, and walkway pads are a must.

It is also important to keep in mind that the PV array should not interfere with the drainage of the roof. This might mean some of the PV array will have to be supported by structural steel tubing or piping (in lieu of traditional racking) which may rest on the roof using ballast. These kinds of racks must allow enough room for roofers to access seams and flashing details. This could include raising the height of the array so as not to obstruct roof penetrations.

Always verify the type of PV array system to be installed on your roof and coordinate with your local Carlisle Field Service Representative (FSR) to assess the new or existing roof condition prior to beginning any work.

Consult the Solar Ready Installation Letter on the Carlisle SynTec website here or contact Craig Tyler at [email protected] with questions.