Solar Roofs
A Solar Roof is a roofing system that generates electricity from sunlight by integrating photovoltaic (PV) technology directly into the roof structure. Instead of mounting traditional solar panels on top of a roof, a Solar Roof uses solar shingles or tiles that function both as the roof covering and as electricity‑producing components.
Sika® SolarRoof
Suitable for both new build and refurbishment applications the Sika® SolarRoof offering combines a lightweight aluminium Solar PV framing system engineered by K2 Systems with the innovative SikaRoof® Anchor mounting system to deliver the option of a Sika guarantee that covers both the roofing system and PV mounting system.
Designed using the K2 Base software to produce a comprehensive project specific design and output specification, Sika® SolarRoof PV Systems can be installed either South facing or East-West oriented, with an elevation of 10° or 15°, to maximise solar energy output on a roof specific basis. With three attachment methods, the Sika® SolarRoof PV System installation is tailored to meet site limitations including weight loading, wind loading, access, speed of installation and client preferences.
Sika® SolarRoof PV System designs will take account of Best Practice design for fire safety, including distance from the external face of the building, abutting external walls, rooflights, SVP’s, and lift over-runs etc. Fire breaks will be allowed between arrays as will maintenance access.
For further assistance, please read Sika's Design Guidance for Solar PV Installations on Flat Roofs.
Sika® SolarRoof Systems
ATTACHED System
Suitable for roof slopes below 10°, and particularly roofs with restrictions on the additional load that can be applied, the Sika® SolarRoof ATTACHED System utilises the SikaRoof® Anchor mounting system to attach the PV framing system to the roof structure. No additional ballast is required, and high wind loads can be accommodated.
SECURED System
Suitable for roof slopes below 5°, the Sika® SolarRoof SECURED System combines ballast weighting with the SikaRoof® Anchor mounting system to resist wind uplift. The K2 aluminium framing system sits on EPDM Dome Mats that may require an isolation membrane depending on the Sika® waterproofing membrane. SikaRoof® Anchors are then used to secure the calculated number of cross rails to the structural deck.
BALLASTED System
Suitable for roof slopes below 5°, the Sika® SolarRoof BALLASTED System uses ballast weighting to resist wind uplift. The K2 aluminium has been optimised by system aerodynamics and wind tunnel tests to support the design calculations within the K2 Base software. Imposing the highest load of the structure the Sika® SolarRoof BALLASTED System will require the lifting and installation of the most ballast, typically paving slabs.
IN-PLANE System
Suitable for roof slopes between 10° and 35°, the K2 framing system is installed to follow the pitch of the roof using SikaRoof® Anchors to mount the PV framing system to the roof structure. No additional ballast is required. The PV panels mounted to the Sika® SolarRoof IN-PLANE System will potentially not self-clean as well as alternative Sika® SolarRoof Systems and, as with all Sika® SolarRoof Systems, the PV panels must be of glass/glass construction.
To complement the typical 25-year life expectancy of a PV System a relevant BBA Certified Sika roof system specification will be provided. All Sika roof waterproofing membranes are BBA Certified to have a life expectancy of ‘in excess of 30 years’ or better.
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To complement the typical 25-year life expectancy of a PV System, a relevant BBA Certified Sika roof system specification will be provided. All Sika roof waterproofing membranes are BBA Certified to have a life expectancy of ‘in excess of 30 years’ or better.
When installed by a Sika® Verified or Certified Roofing Contractor and a Sika® SolarRoof Network Contractor the project will be eligible for a Sika System Guarantee.
For support in designing a Sika® SolarRoof, please contact your local Sika® Area Technical Manager.
