DIY Solar Mounting Solutions

How to Choose

Start with where the array is going. No suitable roof means a ground or top-of-pole mount sized by module count and pipe diameter; a flat commercial roof means a ballasted rack that needs no penetrations; open ground you also want to use means a carport. On a roof, work in this order: roof type, then attachment, then rail, then clamps — and keep all four inside one manufacturer's system so the UL 2703 bonding listing stays intact. Composition shingle wants a flashed attachment such as SnapNrack TopSpeed or Pegasus InstaFlash. Standing seam metal wants S5! clamps and no penetrations at all. No suitable roof means a Tamarack ground or pole mount. Size rail span to your rafter spacing, not to the module width, and use bonded splices so you are not chasing grounding jumpers at inspection.

Key Specifications Explained

• Attachment: Flashed mounts for shingle; seam clamps for metal; ballast or piers for ground
• Rail vs rail-less: Rail-less is faster on regular layouts; rail is more forgiving on cut-up roofs
• Bonding: UL 2703 listing depends on staying within one manufacturer's system
• Span: Set by rafter spacing and local wind and snow load, not module size
• Finish: Black anodized for low visibility, mill for lower cost

Brands We Carry

IronRidge, SnapNrack, Pegasus Solar, S5!, Tamarack Solar, Top Rack Technology, DynoRaxx and IntegraRack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix racking brands?

Structurally you often can, but it voids the UL 2703 bonding listing and inspectors will flag it. Stay within one system.

How far apart can rails span?

It depends on rail profile and your local wind and snow load. Manufacturers publish span tables — use them rather than guessing.

Do I need an engineering letter?

Most jurisdictions require one for permit. Manufacturers publish stamped letters by state; request yours before you submit.

Related Categories

• Solar Mounting Hardware
• Iron Ridge
• SnapNrack
• S5! Metal Roof Mounts