Types of Solar Installation
Roof mount (sloped roofs) using standard photovoltaic (PV) panels - This is the typical type of system for a house or multi-family in an urban or suburban setting. The panels are usually installed at the same pitch as the roof, raised 4 to 6 inches above the roof.
Roof mount (sloped roofs) using laminated photovoltaic (PV) panels - This is more expensive, but, to some, a more attractive way of installing PV on a sloped roof. The "panels" are a flexible mat that has an adhesive on the back. It works best on a standing seam metal roof. The PV mat is applied to the roof between the seams. The quantity of panels is often limited by the number of spaces between seams and the size that the PV mats come in. The panels or mats are much less noticeable than standard panels.
Ballasted Roof mount (flat roofs) - This is a typical type of system for a larger commercial building. In this situation, the panels are typically installed in racks which give the panels a slope (10° to 45°). The racks have a ballast pan below the panels. Masonry cap blocks are put in the pan to keep the panels and racks from moving and/or being knocked over in high winds.
Pole mount - This is a typical system for a home, farm or business in a rural setting where there is plenty of land area to be used. The panels racks are installed on a pole which is installed in the ground with a concrete foundation. Typically, there are 12 - 16 panels in each pole mounted rack. Pole mount systems can be installed with trackers so that the panels are always facing right into the sun for maximum production. Tracker systems do come at an additional cost and they require more on-going maintenance due to the moving parts.
