Roof Tech [E] AIR mounts were THE deciding factor in our decision to self (owner) install our PV system

DYI Testimonial July 25th, 2017

Roof Tech [E] AIR mounts were the deciding factor in our decision to self (owner) install our PV system recently (July 2017). Without them we almost certainly would not have even attempted the installation.

This was because due to an unusual roof line, foil-faced sheeting, skip sheeting under that, and a cathedral ceiling interior. These things rendered the rafter locations inaccessible by any normal means other than exploratory drilling (which we were not willing to do). The Roof Tech system allowed us to install the mounts in their ideal locations essentially without regard to rafter locations.

The Roof Tech system was a huge benefit in being able to locate the array properly to achieve regulatory clearances and access. This method was also particularly important to us because we installed the PV panels in a portrait orientation. The vertical locations of the mounts could be placed as needed to match up with the slip-stopper brackets on the panels, as would have been the case with rafter-aligned systems of course. However of greater importance the horizontal placements could be located at the ideal locations for the panel widths.

The idea of rack-less installation was also very appealing to us as we live in a windy location and the E(AIR) system worked beautifully, keeping the panels low to the roof surface without resorting to wind skirts and deflectors. Rack-less design reduced the overall cost and complexity but also reduced the weight loading on the roof system as a whole, which was reflected in the permit calculations.

The installation could not have been simpler or faster. We were able to install 40 mounts (for two horizontal rows of nine panels each) in a single morning. Use of a cordless impact driver as shown in their informative videos is highly advised. Fastening the panels to the mounts was similarly easy. It was made simple by the bonding method and panel spacers that were part of the edge and middle mount system component kits.

The instructions were very clear and concise and helped immensely. The signed PE letter (California in this instance) was a critical key in gaining acceptance with the permit engineer and inspectors. Although initially it was feared that it might be an issue (due to the non-alignment to rafter locations), in the end it was a total non-event. The inspectors complimented the installation stating that it was very neat and solid.

We were very impressed with these mounts and have recommended the [E] AIR mount system to several others in the process of designing roof-top systems already (all DIY'ers such as us). This is the way to go.

Ron S. Homeowner, first time (but probably not the last) PV installer Rural Santa Clara County, California