Fastener Distributor FAQs | What Are the Ideal Solar Panel Mounting Fasteners?

Your fastener distributor offers a wide selection of solar panel mounting fasteners, suitable for various installation configurations. How do you choose the best set up? Which fasteners provide the most stability and which present the lowest risk of roof leaks? And what types of solar panel mounting fasteners provide the highest levels of reliability in any weather?
The Basics of Solar Panel Mounts
Most installers would agree that aluminum is the optimum material for solar panel mounting fasteners, thanks to a lightweight composition and heavy resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel offers another dependable option, although the weight could be a problem on unsupported roofs.

Rooftop Installation
Solar panels can be installed on a sloped roof or a flat roof, as long as the panels have direct line of sight to the sun. Mounting racks are bolted into the roof deck through asphalt shingles or mounted to metal roofing panels. Look for a product that offers self-sealing feet and height adjustments to provide room for snow build up.
Solar panel mounting fasteners that allow for angle adjustments are also important, giving your system optimum flexibility. Tracker systems automatically follow the sun, but angle adjustments simply allow you to better position the panels initially. Angles can be changed with the seasons as well.
Fasten the mounting base or rack to the roof members using 3/8” lag bolts, preferably stainless steel for optimum corrosion resistance. Ask your fastener distributor about the different brands of lag bolts available in your area.
Vertical roof mounts are affordable, and feature solid roof racks with highly adjustable frames attached to hold the array of panels vertically pointing toward the sun.
Ground Mount Installation
Pole-mounted solar panel systems use completely different fasteners. Without racks and relying on a frame structure built into the panel, this style of mounting uses struts and adjustable clips. Adjustable brackets and clips are important in a ground mount solar panel installation, as the panels should be moved at least two or three times per year.
Schedule 40 piping needs to be secured in the ground with concrete. Panels can be mounted on the top or along the side of the pole using stainless steel fasteners.
Your fastener distributor offers the necessary fasteners for mounting solar panels. From aluminum brackets and clips used with roof mount panels to stainless steel bolts used for pole mounts, their inventory will have what you need for your alternative energy solution.