McElroy Metal chose S-5! Metal Roof Attachments as a solar solution system for its plant, wanting to offset electrical usage and still show a return on investment on its plant in Adelanto, CA. The company previously re-roofed its Peachtree City, GA, standing seam roof facility with 1,960 solar panels. The amount of energy generated through these panels is above what the plant consumes, and McElroy expects to see a return on this solar investment within just three years.
Best Clamp for the Job
A roof inspection was performed prior to installation to ensure it was corrosion-free and suitable to outlast the service life of the planned solar array. Being in the desert (Adelanto is less than 100 miles from Los Angeles) certainly helped. An attachment solution that could handle harsh sun elements, but also preserve durable panel connection was required.
“Being a roofing manufacturer, we are obviously concerned about the overall roof performance for the long-term,” said Ken Gieseke, VP of marketing at McElroy. And as a long-time buyer of S-5! products, it was, “for us, the obvious, and frankly only, solar attachment solution to consider.”
The project called for 646 solar modules added to McElroy Metal’s manufacturing facility. To ensure secure attachment, the aluminum RibBracket IV was selected. Compatible with most metal roofing materials, this economical bracket also fits a number of trapezoidal roof profiles too.
The slotted top hole on the bracket, which accommodates the S-5-PV Kit, simplifies alignment and maximizes flexibility in attaching ancillaries. The RibBracket IV also comes with a factory-applied EPDM rubber gasket seal on the base. Though moisture might not be a concern, the heat, wind and parched conditions wreak havoc on metal, sealants, and screws. To help combat this, the reservoir on the bracket conceals the EPDM from UV exposure, preventing drying and cracks.
Solar Now and Beyond
S-5! clamps were used on two of McElroy’s manufacturing facilities. The company plans to explore more solar mounting opportunities for its other facilities. McElroy hopes such a project can “serve as a showcase for those interested in the use of solar panels with metal roofing,” Gieske said.
Since 1963, McElroy Metal has served the construction industry with quality products and customer service. The family-owned components manufacturer, headquartered in Bossier City, Louisiana, has 13 manufacturing facilities across the U.S.
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