Solar Panels - Which Sikaflex?

StitchUp · 03-01-2013, 19:04

So I've got all the components and when the weather gets better I'll be fitting my solar panels.

I'm a little unsure as to which Sikaflex to use to stick the panel support brackets to the roof? My panels are large 200w and I have two, I have 6 support brackets for each panel, 1 for each corner and two for centre of each of the long sides.

As the panels are quite heavy, what's the best way to stop the Sikaflex being squashed out from underneath the brackets? Would a few matchsticks do? They'd create a gap of about 2mm between the base of the support bracket and the roof. This space would be taken up by the Sikaflex of course.

Any tips gratefully received :)

Larrynwin · 03-01-2013, 19:48

Are you also using a mechanical fixing ?

StitchUp · 03-01-2013, 19:53

Quote:

Originally Posted by Larrynwin

Are you also using a mechanical fixing ?

I wasn't planning to. The footprint of the six brackets is quite large and most of what I've read on the forums suggests that a mechanical fixing, screws etc, are not necessary. The only screws would be those used to fix the brackets to the panels. I always take the advice of those more experienced than myself, especially SWMBO

Vlad The Impaler · 03-01-2013, 20:13

I helped a fellow member fit 2 pannels to my Motorhome,or should I say held the ladder and passed him things.The brackets were screwed to the panels then the unit was sat on roof to get the best position.This was marked and the areas where the brackets met the roof were wiped down with white spirit.
Then some sikaflex 512 was applied and the pannels placed,no matchsticks used and the pannels pushed down well.This was last summer and within an hour of fitting had a forty minute drive home,after many miles since still stuck solid I check them every now and then as a precautionary measure.
I've 2 90 watt pannels on roof and 2 110 amp batteries and been wild camping in Scotland for 2 Weeks in summer and 4 days longest away in winter so far .Never out of power and batteries fully charged from pannels.
Regards Vlad .

Ralph-n-Bev · 03-01-2013, 20:15

Sikaflex 221 and sika primer if using the alloy mounting brackets

http://www.aireandsun.co.uk/buy/inst...g-sealant.html

Bought all my solar gear from this company. Some info on sikaflex on the link.

I would search around though for the best price.

Ralph....

StitchUp · 03-01-2013, 20:18

That's great to hear

Thanks Vlad.

Some say Sikaflex 512 and other say 291 - hence my confusion!

Vlad The Impaler · 03-01-2013, 20:31

He has fitted a few and an expert that quoted me close to a grand for the set up I have was also going to use 512.Infact I got a idea of what I needed from the experts sourced the bits on eBay and with the help of a FUNSTER saved a packet.

Vlad.

Minx · 03-01-2013, 20:37

Ebay is the cheapest place to get adhesive:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_sa...ikaflex&_sop=2