Before installing solar panels on your flat roof, you must first obtain permission from the Fire Department and the Department of Buildings. The Fire Department must give you permission to depart from fire code. To do this, you will need to apply for an exception. While you are able to submit your application in paper form, electronic filing will soon be possible.
Plan before you put it in
If you're considering installing solar panels for your flat roof, make sure you plan ahead. It is important to ensure that your solar panels are properly installed and allow for ventilation. They should not interfere or disrupt the roof's functions. The right racking system can maximize the solar energy that you get from your panels.
There are two main methods to install solar panels for flat roofs. Either you can mount them directly on the roof, or you can use a ballasted method that attaches them to the roof with weights. There are also hybrid systems, which combine both methods.
Think about wind speed
For flat roof solar panels, wind speed should be considered. The performance of your panel installation may be affected if it is subject to strong winds. High winds can cause solar panels to fail. Consider increasing the thickness of the rack systems used for installation.
To calculate wind speed, you must know the direction the prevailing winds are blowing. ASCE 7-16 figure 29.3-1 provides the prevailing wind speed direction for buildings that have a flat roof. This information will allow you to calculate the weight of solar panels and how much electricity they will produce.
Consider tilted mounting system
You may consider tilted mounting systems for your solar panels if you have a flat roofing. A tilted mounting system for solar panels can help them produce more energy and it can be easily adjusted after they have been installed. Sometimes, warranty companies won't cover solar panels with tilts less than two degrees.
Also, consider whether the sun will block the solar panels. This could reduce their energy output. A flat roof is better if there aren't any trees blocking the sunlight. In addition, a flat roof is more aesthetically pleasing than one with a slanted roof.
Planning permission
Before installing solar panels to your flat roof, it is important that you contact your local planning office. This office can inform you if your area requires planning permission. It will also give guidance on how you apply for it. Once you submit the application, you will usually receive a decision within eight weeks. If the planning office finds that your plans will cause a problem for the neighbourhood, they may reject your application. You can appeal this decision to a professional solar company.
You can start the solar panel installation once you have obtained planning permission. It is the same process as installing solar panels on a pitched roof, but you need to follow local planning laws and obtain the necessary building permits before you can start work. This will ensure that you don't cause any problems for the council or your neighbours.