Community Forums

Richard L · 11-17-2019, 04:34 AM

I'm getting ready to install solar on my 2002 Pleasure Way and would like to know the best way to install the panels onto the fiberglass roof? I have heard that some people have used 3M VHB tape. Is that the best way? If so what type of VHB?
And if not tape, what is the best way?
Thanks in advance
Richard L

fcbbob15 · 11-17-2019, 06:07 AM

I used 3M VHB tape under the L brackets and then added a screw. The L bracket and screw were then covered with Dicor self leveling sealant. I cleaned the area with alcohol and let dry before using the tape. So far no issues.

MSHappyCampers · 11-17-2019, 07:24 AM

Hi Richard! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined the gang!

I'm certainly not an expert on solar panel installation, but if I was going to do it I would anchor them with screws down into the roof structure and seal them well with Dicor 502LSW sealant! Have fun and keep her between the ditches!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

momdoc · 11-17-2019, 08:25 AM

Welcome to the forum.

You are joining a good group of folks here with good info to share. Sorry i cannot add anything to what others have suggested.

Good luck and enjoy the adventure!

JaguarAZ · 11-17-2019, 10:01 AM

I have installed several solar panels onto my fiberglass roof only using VHB tape with no screws. The VHB is awesome stuff and should be plenty of hold for the panels. After setting it, cover the edges of the brackets with the Dicor as others have said. You literally couldn’t pull it up with by hand after attaching it without damaging your roof! Although, if you have to remove it, using isopropyl alcohol does dissolve the adhesive so it can be removed without damage to your roof too. A perfect solution in my opinion.

Use 3M VHB #4950. It can be purchased at Amazon in a variety of sizes. I bought the 2” x 3” pieces which was the exact size I needed for my brackets. About $30 for 25 pieces and since it is such amazing stuff, I’ve found a variety of uses through the motorhome for permanently attaching things.

Richard L · 11-17-2019, 07:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JaguarAZ

I have installed several solar panels onto my fiberglass roof only using VHB tape with no screws. The VHB is awesome stuff and should be plenty of hold for the panels. After setting it, cover the edges of the brackets with the Dicor as others have said. You literally couldn’t pull it up with by hand after attaching it without damaging your roof! Although, if you have to remove it, using isopropyl alcohol does dissolve the adhesive so it can be removed without damage to your roof too. A perfect solution in my opinion.

Use 3M VHB #4950. It can be purchased at Amazon in a variety of sizes. I bought the 2” x 3” pieces which was the exact size I needed for my brackets. About $30 for 25 pieces and since it is such amazing stuff, I’ve found a variety of uses through the motorhome for permanently attaching things.

Thank you Jaquar AZ. This is what I was hoping for, someone who has used the tape for installs and also could suggest the #4950. Thank you all very much for your responses and help. Cheers, Richard

ALLOY · 11-21-2019, 11:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JaguarAZ

I have installed several solar panels onto my fiberglass roof only using VHB tape with no screws. The VHB is awesome stuff and should be plenty of hold for the panels. After setting it, cover the edges of the brackets with the Dicor as others have said. You literally couldn’t pull it up with by hand after attaching it without damaging your roof! Although, if you have to remove it, using isopropyl alcohol does dissolve the adhesive so it can be removed without damage to your roof too. A perfect solution in my opinion.

Use 3M VHB #4950. It can be purchased at Amazon in a variety of sizes. I bought the 2” x 3” pieces which was the exact size I needed for my brackets. About $30 for 25 pieces and since it is such amazing stuff, I’ve found a variety of uses through the motorhome for permanently attaching things.

VHB is good stuff but I've always wondered how the fiberglass is held down.

GyroGypsy · 11-22-2019, 11:07 AM

The folks at AM Solar told me they have done several hundred solar panel installs, and only used VHB tape with Dicor sealing the edges unless finding roof curvature or other extenuating circumstances. They claim not have lost a panel yet. That's the kind of wide-range, professional experience you can trust.