2021's Best Home Solar Mounting Systems | Solar.com

Please enter a valid zip code.

2021’s Best Home Solar Mounting Systems

Solar panels and backup batteries get all the attention. But there’s another important piece of equipment to the home solar equation: mounting systems.

These sturdy little structures hold it all together. There are different options available depending on your roof type.

Some secure your solar panels to the roof, or elsewhere on your property if you don’t have the roof space. Did you know some specialized mounting systems can even maximize your system’s production?

Here are some of the best solar mounting systems for home solar.

Classic Roof-Penetrating Solar Racking

Rooftop-penetrating racking systems have been used since the dawn of solar power.

Solar installers drill holes and secure the racking system in place on your rooftop. This is done carefully and sealed well to prevent leaks. Most solar installers (and the ones you want to work with) include leakage warranties to ensure against issues.

Some of the top companies offering penetrating solar mounting systems for traditional composite or asphalt rooftops are IronRidge and Unirac.

 

Roof Penetrating Solar Racking

Specialized Solar Mounting Systems

If your home has a more unique rooftop, like Spanish or clay tiles, or a metal roof, penetrating solar might not be a good idea. Tiles can break, and metal rooftops with seams are better fitted with clamps, rather than drilling into the roof.

Quickmount PV has a great solution for both of these rooftops. Metal mounts in the shape of the tiles create a solid base for the racking system. These metal tiles only replace specific sections needed for the mounting system, so you keep your beautiful roof.

SnapNRack offers a great standing seam metal roof mounting system that doesn’t require any drilling. Clamps easily allow installers to mount the system onto the metal rooftop.

Solar Ground Mounts with Tracking

Some homeowners opt for solar panels mounted on the ground or at the top of a post on their property. These are great options if there’s not much roof space.

Another advantage is the possibility of getting a solar panel racking system that can tilt as needed to follow the sun. This can improve how much power you get from your panels, as they’re always in the optimal position.

Figuring Solar Mounting Into Your Project Plan

Not sure which mounting system would be best for you? No need to try and figure it out all on your own. Our solar advisors can help you determine what makes the most sense for your rooftop. Get started here.

Return to

Solar Panel Installation Process

⇠ Return

See how much solar panels cost in your area.

Please enter a valid zip code.


Please enter a valid zip code.

Zero Upfront Cost. Best Price Guaranteed.

Topics

How To Find the Best Solar Panels for Your Home in 2024

Trying to determine the best solar panels for your home is like trying to determine the best car – there’s no one correct answer. Everybody...

Learn More

How Does Solar Power Work on a House? Your Questions Answered

How does solar power work? A simple explanation is that solar panels convert sunlight into electricity that can be used immediately or stored in batteries....

Learn More

Solar Panel Efficiency - Pick the Most Efficient Solar Panels

You may hear the term “efficiency” thrown around a lot when reading up on solar panels. It sure sounds like a good thing, but what...

Learn More

Solar Inverters: Types, Pros and Cons

What is a solar inverter? Solar energy doesn’t provide electricity in a format that your table lamp could be powered by. Inverters change the power...

Learn More

Solar Providers Near Me

When beginning your home solar project, you might start by searching “Solar Providers Near Me.” Then, you'll be presented with dozens of different solar companies...

Learn More

Charging Your EV With Solar Panels and Using the EV Tax Credit To Lower the Cost

Ditching your gas-guzzler for an electric vehicle (EV) is a great way to lower the cost and emissions of getting from A to B. But...

Learn More

Community Solar

It’s no secret that many of us spend a large portion of our income on energy and electricity bills. In fact, in 2012 we spent...

Learn More

Solar for Condo Owners

Solar for condominium unit owners is gaining steady popularity throughout the country, as more and more states are writing legislation to promote clean energy accessibility....

Learn More

Key Solar Terms

Going solar isn't something people do everyday and unless you have an electrical engineering degree, it's likely you'll bump into some new phrases and terms....

Learn More