How to Install Solar Panel Bird Deterrents

How to Install Solar Panel Bird Deterrents

Posted on September 18, 2016 by Alex Kecskes in Bird Deterrents

Rooftop solar panels are susceptible to damage from birds and other critters seeking shelter. Bird B Gone’s Solar Panel Bird Deterrent provides a solution using specialized mesh and clips to block access without damaging the panels themselves.

Pre-Installation Preparation

Before starting the installation, you must clean and disinfect the area under and around the solar panels to remove nesting materials and droppings, which attract pests. Because this debris may contain disease-carrying bacteria, you must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) during this process to prevent injury or infection.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Tools: Wire cutter, measuring tape, and a 2x4 (for bending mesh).
  • Materials: Solar Panel Bird Deterrent mesh and clips, and UV-rated zip ties.
  • Safety: Ensure you have appropriate safety equipment for working on a rooftop.

Measuring and Preparing the Mesh

To determine the required material and labor, measure the size and number of panels on the roof. Bird B Gone recommends cutting the mesh into 5-foot lengths for easier handling.

  • Align the pre-cut mesh against the arrays and note any excess mesh squares above the edge of the panel.
  • Off the roof, use a 2x4 to bend these excess squares at a 45-degree angle.

Installation Steps

  1. Positioning: Place the bent edge of the mesh against the roof while holding the other edge against the solar array.
  2. Securing: Insert the curved end of a fastening clip through the mesh, hook it underneath the solar panel, and pull it to ensure the hook sits firmly on the panel lip.
  3. Tightening: Secure the clip by tightening the feed washer against the mesh.
  4. Spacing and Finishing: Attach clips approximately every 18 inches, then bend the clip rod upward and cut off the excess portion of the rod.
  5. Overlapping: When starting a new mesh piece, overlap it by about 2 inches (four squares), ensuring the clip passes through both layers before securing the feed washer.

Handling Specialized Scenarios

  • Outside Corners: Cut a straight slit in the bottom of the mesh, bend at a 90-degree angle, and fasten. Cover any resulting roof gaps with a small 2x4 inch piece of mesh secured with UV-rated zip ties.
  • Inside Corners: Cut a 45-degree slit at the bottom, bend the mesh in opposite directions to create an overlap, secure with clips, and lock the bottom slits with zip ties.
  • Obstructions: Use wire cutters to trim around obstructions like panel racks, ensuring no gaps remain where critters might enter.
  • Spanish Tile Roofs: Measure the distance from the panel to the highest part of the tile; bend or cut the mesh accordingly while off the roof. On the roof, secure the mesh with clips, then cut and attach smaller pieces to fill gaps at the lowest parts of the tiles using UV-rated zip ties or a hog-ring tool.

Expert Assistance

For further guidance, training, or product information, Bird B Gone can be reached through the following channels:

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