Insider Knowledge
Shingle Solar System Penetrations
Solar penetrations on a shingle roof
It is critically important for any solar installation to be performed in such a way that it will not leak for the life of the system. With the majority of our home solar installations on shingle roofs, we have adopted a robust, international building-code compliant attachment system with zero leaks. Depicted on the left is the IronRidge flush-mounted system, which is one of our preferred flush roof mounts. With large FlashFoot 2 flashings, open-notch L-foot attachments, and strong XR rail, this system, and mounting structures alike stand above the roof surface, allowing for air circulation that keeps the roof shaded and cool.
Importance of wire management
Wires and connectors are the first points of failure in solar installations. Heat, sharp corners, moisture, cold, wind, mechanical movement, electrical loads, and sunlight can put the exposed wiring system to the test. However, due to the fact that you can’t see it, solar wire management gets overlooked. Inadequate wire management can result in excessive service calls, arc faults, ground faults, and other hazards and nuisances. When performed properly, wire management allows for very low maintenance for the life of the solar system. We at PPM work very hard to prevent abrasion and tear to the wires by adhering to the best industry practices, such as appropriate bend radiuses, non-degradable clips and supports (wire nuts fail), and training our installers to treat every connector and wire with a 25-year lifespan in mind.
No wires can be hanging under the system
MC4 connectors
Making up field electrical connectors can be a real challenge, especially while on the roof. Oftentimes, folks with prior roofing experience conduct the roof portion of the work but have limited experience with solar connectors. There are multiple steps that need to be taken to assure the proper operation of the solar connector. With modern arc fault sensing, nuisance tripping can become a problem with MC4’s when they are cut too long or have fray. Proper crimping, location, sourcing, and planning help field connectors stay trouble-free longer.