Threatening weather influences on solar carports and PV parking spaces of a different kind that no one thinks about

In the world of solar parking spaces, it is of utmost importance that both the solar system and the substructure have an exceptional longevity of at least 25 years or more in order to secure the investment. Safety aspects such as increased collision protection and vandalism protection play a crucial role. These requirements lead to the question of whether wooden or metal substructures are the better choice for such solar parking spaces.

At first glance, wooden substructures may appear to be a more cost-effective option compared to steel and aluminum. But a closer look shows that the deterioration of wooden structures over the years can lead to significant problems. The need for constant repairs and maintenance can significantly increase long-term costs. What matters here is the balance between acquisition costs and long-term benefits.

The choice between wood and metal as a substructure for solar parking spaces depends on several factors. It's important to understand the specific pros and cons of each option in order to make the best possible decision.

Wooden substructures: Cheap, but long-term risks

Wooden substructures have their charm due to their lower purchase costs. They can be easily machined and assembled, reducing initial installation costs. However, over time it becomes apparent that wood suffers from the effects of weather, moisture and pests. This can lead to structural problems that require regular repairs. Long-term maintenance costs can be significant and reduce the expected life of the asset.

Metal substructures: longevity and stability

Metal substructures, especially steel and aluminum, offer greater longevity and stability compared to wood. They are better protected from the elements and less susceptible to damage from moisture and pests. Additionally, they typically require less maintenance over time. This leads to longer efficient use of the solar system and a better return for investors.

Safety aspects: Increased collision protection and vandalism protection

The safety of the solar system and the parking lot users is of utmost importance. Metal substructures often offer better protection against physical impacts such as vehicle collisions. Increased collision protection can reduce the likelihood of damage to the facility and parking lot. In addition, special design elements can be integrated into the construction to prevent vandalism.

Cost-benefit analysis: consider the long-term perspective

When deciding between wooden and metal substructures, it is important to carry out a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis. The higher initial cost of metal can be offset by its longer lifespan and lower maintenance requirements. Investors should consider the potential savings over time to maximize long-term profitability.

Find the balance

Overall, the choice between wooden and metal substructures for solar parking spaces is an important decision. While wood may be more cost-effective initially, long-term maintenance costs and decay can increase the overall cost. Metal substructures offer greater longevity and stability, which leads to more efficient use of the solar system. The safety aspects, especially collision protection and vandalism protection, should also not be neglected.

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#️⃣ Hashtags: #Solar parking spaces #Wooden substructure #Metal substructure #Longevity #Low maintenance

Solar parking spaces are a promising way to generate renewable energy while optimizing limited space requirements in cities and urban areas. However, there are actually some challenges that can complicate the introduction of such parking spaces.

One of the biggest hurdles is the high cost and planning effort associated with installing solar panels in parking lots. Not only must the cost of the solar panels themselves be taken into account, but also the cost of the infrastructure required to connect the panels to the grid. In addition, the space required for installing the solar modules must be precisely planned and coordinated to ensure effective use of the available space.

Another obstacle are bureaucratic hurdles and approval processes that can make it difficult to install solar panels in parking lots. Depending on the region or country, different rules and regulations may apply, which can complicate the approval and implementation process.

Despite these challenges, there is high demand for solar parking spaces as they represent an effective way to promote renewable energy while optimizing space requirements in urban areas. With careful planning and collaboration between the parties involved, the hurdles can be overcome to facilitate the introduction of such parking spaces.

➡️ We specialize in providing advisory and planning support for such solar carport projects and advancing their implementation.

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Solar canopy: Solar covered parking space - Image: Wiederspan.Solar

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• Solar covered parking space for your solar carport park customer projects

When it comes to solar carports and PV parking spaces with a wooden substructure, there are some important aspects to consider that are often overlooked. Exposure to the elements on such structures can have long-term effects, both in terms of durability and functionality. Here are some points to consider:

1. Magnifying glass effect caused by sun rays

Solar carports that use semi-transparent solar panels can be susceptible to the magnifying glass effect. Exposure to the sun's rays through the transparent areas of the solar modules can lead to a concentration of heat, which in turn can affect the rubber seals and silicone or acrylic sealants. These impairments can lead to leaks over time, compromising the durability of the structure.

➡️ Depending on the fastening system of the solar modules with the wooden substructure, this influences the rubber seal as well as silicone or acrylic sealants (roof sealing), which can lead to leaks within just a few years.

2. Moisture from below

An often overlooked factor is the moisture that can affect the wood in the substructure from below. This moisture can negatively impact the wood over the years, jeopardizing the structural integrity of the entire structure.

➡️ In addition to the general change in weather and humidity from the environment, there is also the breath of people and the change in exhaust gases from combustion vehicles.

3. Changes in weather and wood reaction

Wood is sensitive to changes in weather, especially temperature fluctuations. The constant changes in weather conditions, especially the change between cold and heat in the rhythm of day and night, can weaken the wood in the substructure and lead to deformation.

➡️ Wood reacts quickly to changes in the weather, which sooner or later can lead to deformation and thus displacement of the modules. A few millimeters are enough. All the sooner if the construction was carried out quickly and uncleanly due to cost and time pressure.

4. Building-integrated photovoltaics, when solar modules take on the function of a roof

Pay close attention to what the provider says: If the module mounting system is weatherproof or water-resistant, that doesn't mean that it can't get wet or rain through. Although the moisture is kept out, it cannot be completely ruled out with this formulation. The weather resistance also depends on the quality of the assembly and it is generally pointed out that no guarantee is given for the tightness.

5. Long-term effects of moisture (including condensation)

Moisture can penetrate the building material and weaken the wood. This can significantly shorten the lifespan of the parking lot cover and lead to expensive repairs. It is therefore essential to use weather-resistant materials and carry out regular inspections to detect and repair damage early.

➡️ In open systems, condensation must always be taken into account when there are temperature differences. Also wind-borne water droplets.

6. Aluminum vs. wooden substructure

When choosing the substructure for solar carports, aluminum is often the better choice compared to wood. An aluminum substructure is less susceptible to the above-mentioned weather influences and can ensure decades of problem-free function.

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⚙️ Robustness in focus: weather-resistant solar carports
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💡 Panel of experts: Weather influences and their effects

#️⃣ Hashtags: #Solar carports #weather influences #wooden substructure #aluminum #robust construction

When building solar carports with a wooden substructure, it is crucial to consider the potential effects of the weather. The magnifying effect of the sun's rays, the moisture from below, the reaction of the wood to changes in the weather and the long-term consequences of moisture can affect the durability and functionality of the structure. An aluminum substructure can be a robust alternative that can better withstand the challenges of the weather.

The city solar carport - with increased collision and vandalism protection - Image: Xpert.Digital

The advantages at a glance

• Support & Made in Germany
• Modular & scalable (for 2, 100, 1,000 and more parking spaces)
• Really waterproof
• Integrated water drain / invisible rain gutter
• Vandalism protection, optionally with integrated impact protection
• Variable with all common solar modules
• City design available in aluminum and 3 different colors
• Depending on the amount of self-consumption (degree of self-sufficiency), amortization is possible within 6 years
• Long service life (aluminum substructure)
• 30-year (!) performance guarantee on bifacial and partially transparent double-glass solar modules (25-year product guarantee)
• Reducing urban heat islands
• Building-integrated photovoltaics
• Ideal for transparent and translucent double-glass solar modules with overhead mounting approval!

Condensation, also known as condensation, occurs when warm air comes into contact with cold surfaces and the humidity in the air condenses. This phenomenon often occurs when the temperature difference between the air and the surface is high, as can be the case in open systems of buildings. Condensation can affect building materials in a variety of ways, leading to potential long-term damage.

Open systems in buildings, such as solar parking spaces, terraces or balconies, are usually exposed to wind and weather, which increases the likelihood of condensation. Here are some ways condensation can affect building materials:

1. Moisture damage

When condensation condenses on materials such as concrete or wood or metal, it can slowly penetrate the surface. Over time, this can lead to moisture damage, such as rust, rot or mold growth.

➡️ Under most conditions, only aluminum is resistant to normal corrosion and rusting due to its natural oxide layer.

2. Change in surface texture

Building materials can change their original surface structure due to repeated condensation and drying caused by condensation. This can lead to cracking, chipping and discoloration.

3. Health risks

Surfaces affected by condensation may be at increased risk of mold growth and associated health problems. Mold spores can become airborne and cause respiratory illnesses.

4. Maintenance effort

Building owners have to put more effort into repairing the damage caused by condensation. Regular inspections and, if necessary, renovation work are necessary to maintain the integrity of the building materials.

Various measures can be taken to minimize condensation problems:

Choice of material

When selecting building materials, choose those that are less susceptible to moisture damage and have high resistance to condensation.

Regular inspection

Regularly inspecting building structures for signs of condensation or moisture damage is crucial to identifying and correcting problems early.

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#️⃣ Hashtags: #BuildingMoisture #CondensationProblems #EnergyEfficiency #BuildingHealth #BuildingMaterials

It is important to take condensation issues seriously in open systems buildings as they can not only compromise structural integrity, but can also pose long-term risks to energy efficiency and health.

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🗒️ Difference between water-repellent, rain-repellent, waterproof, rainproof, waterproof, rain-resistant and water-resistant for partially transparent solar modules that also take on the function of a roof.

There is often confusion among the various terms used in relation to the waterproofing and durability of semi-transparent solar panels that act as a roof. Let's clarify the differences between the terms "water-repellent", "rain-resistant", "waterproof", "rainproof", "waterproof", "rain-resistant" and "water-resistant".

Water-repellent and rain-repellent

These terms refer to materials or surfaces that can repel water or raindrops. They prevent water from penetrating the material. These features can be useful to protect the modules from light rain showers or splashes of water, but they do not provide complete waterproofing.

Waterproof and rainproof

These terms refer to materials or products that completely repel water or rain and prevent it from penetrating. Waterproof and rainproof solar panels are able to withstand heavy rain without water entering the panels. This is particularly important if the solar panels double as a roof, as it allows them to keep the space underneath dry.

Water resistant

The term “waterproof” is often used interchangeably with “waterproof,” but there is a subtle difference. Waterproof materials can repel water and are resistant to moisture, but they may not be suitable for prolonged exposure to water or heavy rain.

Rain-resistant and water-resistant

These terms indicate that the material or modules are resistant to water or rain, but they may not provide complete waterproofing. They may be suitable for lighter weather conditions, but may not be designed for heavy rain or prolonged exposure to water.

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• ⚡ Efficient energy generation despite rain: The importance of waterproof solar roofs
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#️⃣ Hashtags: #Solar roofs #Waterproof modules #Renewable energy #Rain resistance #Sustainable technologies

For semi-transparent solar panels that act as a roof, it is crucial that they are waterproof or rainproof to protect the spaces underneath from moisture and water. Choosing the right term depends on the specific requirements and environmental conditions that the solar panels will be exposed to.

Using high quality materials and technology in the manufacturing of these solar panels is crucial to ensure they can withstand the demands. This may include the use of special coatings, seals and waterproof fasteners.

From simple solar carports to large systems: with Xpert.Solar your individual solar carport advice

Konrad Wolfenstein

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