A solar roof or rooftop photovoltaic (PV) system is a setup where electricity‑generating solar panels are installed on the roof. It makes optimal use of the rooftop’s prime exposure to sunlight and creating one of the most environmentally friendly roofs possible.
As flat roofs are increasingly recognized as valuable usable space, they are being harnessed more and more for sustainable energy generation.
Solar Roof Benefits & Considerations
Benefits
- Cost savings through solar power purchase agreements, tax credits and income from sale of surplus electricity, if available locally
- Environmental win by obtaining electricity from a renewable resource without pollution
- Reliable source of energy in the case of electrical outage when the PV system has battery-powered storage
- Stable, relatively fixed costs as PV systems are less vulnerable to electricity rate hikes
Risks & Prevention Steps
Click on each of the risks below to see recommended actions to help prevent those risks.
Ensure to make proper calculations for added “dead load” of entire PV system and choose a lightweight attachment method.
Wind uplift is one of the worst enemies of a PV system.
Design well against wind uplift and other weather forces.
Choose a PV attachment system which will not penetrate the roof membrane, to maintain the watertight roof buildup.
Ensure your entire roof assembly is specified with fire-resistant materials according to local standards.
Sika's Solar Roof Mounting Solutions
At Sika, as roofing experts, we have developed photovoltaic mounting solutions that are compatible with roofing systems and are reliable, lightweight, and easy-to-install.
The SSM2 system is a non-penetrating and lightweight mounting system, specially designed for the installation of PV panels on flat rooftops covered with Sika PVC and FPO membranes, and is attached by hot‑air welding.
- FM approval
- Welded solution
- Membrane compatibility
The SikaRoof® Anchor solution is a prefabricated universal connection point for attaching PV systems to flat roofs with Sarnafil® FPO and Sikaplan® PVC waterproofing membranes, as well as SikaShield® bitumen membranes.
- Membrane compatibility
Compatible Systems for Solar Roofs
Reference Projects
Contact Us
Unique Services
- Sika’s experts provide assistance in your project if needed, including design assistance to architects and specifiers and authorized applicator training.
- Sika can advise how to make your solar PV roof perform optimally, ensuring not only that the PV panels are mounted correctly, but also that the entire roof assembly is designed incorporating vapor retarders where required, proper insulation layers, appropriate fastening technology, correct detailing and more.
Local Contact
Your local Sika technical experts can advise you on the best approach in your solar roof design. Contact a Sika expert near you for technical support and locally available products and systems.
Global Support
Contact Sika's global representative in case you need our support in an international project.
