[RE-wrenches] S-5! Question

[Hilton Dier III]

We did one direct to S-5! installation - never again. Alignment and 
leveling was a pain and the wire retaining clips on the discs were 
useless. Always use rails. Aside from the installation issues, rails 
will better distribute loads across the roofing seams. Without rails 
you'll inevitably end up with "diving board" modules cantilevered off of 
the clamps.

But really, the most important point I can make is that the S-5! clamps 
are only as good as the roofing. If you look in the S-5! literature 
you'll find a wide variety of tension and shear force ratings depending 
on the brand, material, and thickness of the roofing. You are also 
dependent upon the diligence and skill of the roofer. How many fasteners 
are under there, of what kind, and into what sheathing? It's a gamble. 
My response is to distribute the load with as many clamps as I can. 
You'll find that the resulting factor of safety is not all that huge. 
The cost, as a percentage, is not that huge either. And you'll sleep better.

Hilton

-- 
Hilton Dier III
Renewable Energy Design
Partner, Solar Gain LLC
453 East Hill Rd.
Middlesex, VT 05602

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