Here's what you need to consider when installing on flat roofs

Published on: June 3, 2020 / Updated on: August 20, 2020 – Author: Konrad Wolfenstein

Flat roof mounting system “TRITON” – @T.Werk

1. Pay attention to damage and the condition of the roof membrane during the inspection.
2. Be sure to document any existing damage to the roof membrane with photos and have the current condition confirmed by your customer and the roof owner.
3. Insist on inspecting the roof from underneath as well.
4. If there is any apparent water damage, document and confirm it as well.

Flat roof mounting system “TRITON” – @T.Werk

Here we describe the "TRITON" flat roof mounting system from T.Werk . The system is characterized by high stability, minimal use of small parts for fastening, and quick assembly.

• Measure the roof precisely, especially any structures. Planning based on a Google Earth image is far too imprecise. For large antennas, consider not only shading but also the potential for ice being thrown off.
• Maintain the required distances to fire protection-relevant structures (fire protection systems, firewalls). Please observe local regulations. Distances of between 0.5 and 2.5 m are generally required. For skylights used as fire protection systems, be sure to consider the direction of opening, as these must be kept clear at all times.
• Inquire about the roof's load-bearing capacity. For the TRITON system, we typically require between 9 and 18 kg/m². Naturally, you will always receive a project-specific ballasting plan with the standard-compliant safety factors of 1.5 against lifting and slippage, as well as all relevant information.
• When installing the modules, ensure that there is a minimum edge distance of 0.8 m between the module and the outer edge of the roof. This will significantly reduce the amount of ballast required.
• Please complete the ▸data collection form in full. This will ensure quick and smooth planning and ballasting.

• If a lightning protection system is already in place on the roof, please check with the roof owner or their lightning protection officer regarding the procedure for installing a PV system. The TRITON system can be integrated passively or actively. The system is currently undergoing VDE-compliant certification.
• Observe the applicable standards for frame and module grounding.
• If a fall protection system is present on the roof, it must remain unobstructed. Please discuss this with your client and the roof owner. A fall protection system can also be integrated into the TRITON system after consultation with T.Werk.
• For slopes greater than 3°, the system must be secured against downslope drift, as the PV system can otherwise "migrate" over the years despite correct ballasting. Several technical options are available for securing the system. We would be happy to assist you with this.
• When installing, observe the applicable safety regulations and maintain a safe distance from the roof edge. Read the installation instructions carefully.
• Check whether you can place the module pallets and the pallets from the TRITON system on the roof (high local load!). In any case, cover these areas with protective fleece or construction mats to prevent damage to the roof membrane. This is also recommended for frequently used walkways. Impose a complete smoking ban on the roof and scaffolding.
• Be sure to adhere to T.Werk's ballasting plan. If any changes occur during construction, inform T.Werk so they can adjust the plan.

• Make sure to place the stones needed as ballast (usually standard paving stones) correctly.
• Metal parts and stones must not be in direct contact with the roof membrane.
• For membranes, use aluminum-laminated protective mats. In this case, no proof of compatibility with the membrane is required, as the aluminum lamination acts as a structural barrier. For all other roof coverings, protective mats without aluminum lamination are recommended, as they have a higher coefficient of friction.
• Ensure professional cable routing in suitable cable ducts.
• Document the condition of the roof after completion of the installation work and conduct an inspection with the customer and the property owner. Have this inspection confirmed in writing.
• Advise the customer that the system must be inspected annually and after severe storms.
• If you have any further questions on this topic or require more information, please feel free to contact us. We will get back to you as soon as possible.
• As a partner of T.Werk, we are happy to support you with the planning and design of the system.