[RE-wrenches] Popping Sounds From Roof

[Corey Shalanski]

Hi Jason,

I know the sound you are describing well and can confirm that it is likely
related to expansion/contraction of the metal roof panels. Down here in
Jamaica, we have an exposed-fastener corrugated metal roof. Whenever the
roof has been sitting in shade for some time (or if it has been overcast)
and then a sudden burst of sunshine hits it, a distinct popping sound can
be heard. The effect is usually pretty immediate—and, since we do not have
an attic or any ceiling insulation, it is also quite noticeable. Over the
years, though, we have become very accustomed to it, and it now blends into
the background. I've never understood what it is exactly that we are
hearing, but it is definitely related to the expanding metal.

I installed a couple modules on the roof last summer—see attached photo. I
haven't noticed that the frequency of the sound has either increased or
decreased since then. As Tyrone suggested, in your customer's case, it
might be that the area surrounding the array is heating up quicker than the
area underneath it - and perhaps that is causing some differential
expansion of the roof panels (that causes them to 'pop').

Corey Shalanski
Portland, Jamaica


On Wed, Mar 5, 2025 at 4:11 PM Christopher Warfel <
cwarfel at entech-engineering.com> wrote:

> I have heard this too, no solar involved. Chris
>
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