How Will The Solar Panels Attach To My Roof?
This is a common question from homeowners. Our VP of Solar Production, Gailan Wensil-Strow, explains how we use the RT-MINI II to ensure panels are connected to your roof without causing any damage and maintaining your roof’s integrity.
The RT-MINI II
The RT-MINI II is a self-flashing base designed for mounting solar panels on various types of roofs, including asphalt, metal, EPDM, and TPO. The RT-MINI II is designed to provide a secure and waterproof attachment point for conventional rail mounting systems used in photovoltaic (PV) installations.
Key Features
- Self-Flashing: The RT-MINI II incorporates a self-flashing design, which helps prevent water infiltration and maintains roof integrity.
- Versatility: It can be installed on various roof types and attaches directly to the roof deck, eliminating the need for attic access or inter-rafter blocking.
- Strength: Engineered to withstand wind speeds up to 180 mph and ground snow loads up to 90 psf.
- Compatibility: Suitable for use with conventional L-foot attachments and various rail systems.
- Waterproofing: Uses RT-Butyl, a flexible flashing material certified by the ICC for waterproofing.
Installation and Benefits
- Quick Installation: Fastens with wood screws, eliminating the need for pilot holes and speeding up the installation process.
- Roof Warranty Preservation: When properly installed, it doesn’t damage the seal on asphalt shingles, helping to maintain the roof’s warranty.
- Flexibility: Can be attached to rafters, blocking, or directly to the roof decking, providing installation options for various roof structures.
The RT-MINI II represents an evolution in solar panel mounting technology, offering a balance of strength, ease of installation, and roof protection for residential and commercial solar installations.
How Will The Panels Attach To My Roof? Part 2: The Racking
IronRidge XR100 Rail
The XR100 is part of IronRidge’s XR Rail Family, designed for mounting solar panels on roofs. It’s specifically tailored for residential solar installations.
Key Features
- Strength: The XR100 features a unique curved profile that increases structural strength and spanning capability.
- Spanning Capability: Supports spans up to 8 feet, allowing for fewer roof penetrations.
- Load Capacity: Designed for heavy load capability, suitable for a range of wind and snow conditions.
- Material: Made from marine-grade 6000-series aluminum alloy with an anodized finish for corrosion protection.