Help on solar panel installation

[Les Gilliam]

I finally found a solar panel that will mount on the roof and attach at the roof support ribs. My question relates to the proper sealer to use between the roof and the support brackets. The panel came with "Mastic Sealer Compound" and is supposed to be good for all types of RV's. I know most people recommend Vulcum (sp?) or par bond for most Airstream repair jobs, but I don't know about a sealer for solar panel installation. Also, how should the screws be sealed? The instructions imply that the Mastic Sealer Compound will seal the screws also.

Finally, how deep into the Airstream roof should the screws penetrate? I have to modify (or make new) mounting brackets since the ones that came with the panel are not long enough to allow for the curvature of the roof.

Any help would be appreciated. HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU AND YOUR'S.

[Pahaska]

Even at a rib. there is no more than 1/8" of aluminum. Any longer screw is just going to penetrate air. As long as the maximum diameter of the screw threads fully engage the roof, there is no need for longer screws. I would probably choose 3/8" or 1/2" screws depending on the bracket thickness.

I'm a belt and suspender guy and would probably put a dab of sealer on the screw heads. On the roof of my trailer, that's what the factory did.

[SilverStreaker]

Thanks for the info, John. The screws that came with the panels are quite long. I will get shorter ones and will probbly go with stainles steel.

[SilverStreaker]

It just dawned on me that I used my wife's computer to answer your post so I probably confused you. I had better sign this one.

Thanks again,

Les