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Pros and Cons Using Precast Solar Ballast Blocks vs. Mechanical Fasteners

There's little debate about the benefits of utilizing more solar energy to power our world, but there is quite a bit of debate on how best to keep those panels in place: mechanical fasteners or ballast blocks. Mechanical fasteners use fasteners that penetrate the roof at the area of installation to keep the solar panel in place while ballast blocks hold the panels in place using weight. Here are the pros and cons of using the ballast method over fasteners.

PROS

1. Enjoy a Faster Installation

One of the major benefits of using precast ballast blocks is saving time. Since the majority of the installation will be focused on ensuring that the panels are connected and providing electricity, there is less time focused on drilling holes, fastening screws, and sealing the new holes in a roof installation to prevent water penetration. This allows for more time spent focusing on making sure the panels are functioning correctly rather than the placement.

2. There's a Lower Risk of Water Penetration 

One of the major disadvantages of mechanical fasteners is the risk of creating holes that will allow for water penetration if installed haphazardly. Using precast ballast blocks eliminates this problem because no holes are required for drilling. Instead, the weight of the heavy precast blocks holds the panels in place with no possibility of future movement.

3. You Won't Void Warranties

One risk of installing solar panels on a roof is that some companies will void the roof's warranty on the area of installation if holes are drilled into the roof. This is one major reason that individuals and businesses balk at installing solar panels that will provide them with a reliable source of clean energy. With ballast blocks, it's easy to keep the roof's warranty intact because no drilling is required.

CONS

1. They're Best on Flat Roof Installation

Because using precast ballast blocks relies on the weight of the block to keep the solar panels in place, they're best used only on flat roofs for obvious reasons. Though ballast blocks can be attached to low slope roofs with cement, they're not ideal for roofs with any kind of heavy slope.

2. They're Heavier

The whole point of using precast ballast blocks is utilizing the weight of the material to hold the solar panels in place. But that means you're adding a lot of extra weight to your roof. A roofing support system needs to be able to handle that additional weight.

If you'd like to learn more about your options, contact precast solar ballast block companies. 


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