Question about solar panel rack.

Question

My new solar panels came today! I waited until they arrived to determine how to mount them. I have been considering a rack from side to side of our class c Winnie 25b.
The panels are 59 x 26 and I thought I’d bolt them to an aluminum rack screwed to the edges of the roof.

I’m thinking of using aluminum angle and brackets.
I am trying to avoid screw holes in the roof.
The panels bolt from the bottom. Cannot drill more holes or the warranty is voided.

I have plenty of room near the refrigerator vent where I intend to run the wires.

I’m thinking one panel support between the air conditioner and the refrigerator vent and one shared in the middle or two sets of two. I also considered aluminum extrusion.
Any advice?

jdc1 · Answer

Just use 1-2" wide aluminum L brackets, long enough to keep the panels off the roof to vent. Keep it simple. You only need 4 per panel.

lwiddis · Answer

A warranty on the roof of a 2018 Winnie? Interesting.

Yes, skip the rack. I've had my panels screwed to the roof for three plus years now...no leaks. I use Heng's annually over the Dicor I used when installing the panels.

ricklight · Answer

I saw a video using Unistrut as a base frame. Standard 1 5/8" or the shallow stuff would be my choice. www.unistrut.us

vintage465 · Answer

I think the regular brackets that come with the panels are sufficient.  If you wanted to go the extra mile you can make sure you get at least one hold down screw into a rafter/trust or some substantial wood.  Or you can also use "well nuts" that actually work like a rivet in the plywood when the hold down bolt is cinched up.  Putty tape or non leveling goo under the bracket and self leveling sealant over the top.  Don't think you'll have any problems of any kind.

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Question about solar panel rack.

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