Description
Solar panels are being installed on commercial and residential roofs across the UK. These arrays provide perfect harbourage for pigeons, homeowners are desperate for a solution that does not involve piercing or damaging the solar panels with mechanical fixings as this will void the panel warranty.
This innovative system is designed specifically to keep pigeons from getting under solar arrays, protecting the roof, wiring, and equipment from damage. This non-penetrating system is fast and easy to install.
Clips sold separately, wire mesh is supplied in 30 m rolls.
The preferred technique is to cut it into six-foot lengths and straighten before getting onto the roof. Then, using a length of 2” X 4” timber, bend up the bottom inch of mesh to about 30 degrees. This “kick-out” helps to lock the mesh firmly into place
A typical solar panel is approximately 1.6m tall and 1m wide, on a typical panel one should use 3 clips on each long edge and 2 clips on each short edge. See the diagram attached to this product listing for more details and an example of a typical installation.
- Where to Use: Rooftop solar panel arrays
- Target Bird: Pigeons
- Bird Pressure: All levels
- Material: U.V.-stabilized polycarbonate
- Installation: Wire mesh is bound to solar panels using patent-pending clips
This non-penetrating system is fast and easy to install and does not void warranties, please see installation images bellow.
STEP 1: Place clips every 18 inches. Slide the clip onto the edge of the panel support bracket. Slide as far outward as possible so the clip is all the way on the lip of the panel.
STEP 2: Set the wire mesh screen in place. Make sure the fastener rod comes through the screen at an upward angle as to keep downward pressure on the screen
STEP 3: Slide the speed washer onto the shaft of the clip assembly until snug. Make adjustments to the screen as necessary. Tighten ratchet washer to the desired tension.
STEP 4: Cut off any excess mesh screen sticking over the top edge of the solar panel array. Cut of the clip assembly rod flush with the exterior of the speed washer. Use metal shears
If you require any further advice before ordering, please do not hesitate in contacting us and we will be happy to help….. Tel Freephone 0800 0687279
Choosing the Solarguard Push Fit Mesh Clips (box of 60)
The push fit clip is for solar panels with a return lip on the underside of the frame. Its washer ratchets on like a cable tie, which makes it quick to fit, but it is single use: it cannot be loosened once in place.
If your panels have no lip, use the Solar Mesh Speed Clip instead.
Specification
| Panel frame | Needs a return lip on the underside of the panel (our installation guide gives 10 to 20mm) |
|---|---|
| Material | UV stabilised polycarbonate; will not scratch anodised panel frames |
| Fixing | Ratchet washer that works like a cable tie |
| Removable | No, single use |
| Spacing | Every 450mm (18 inches); 2 on each short edge and 3 on each long edge of a typical 1.6m x 1m panel |
| Pack | Box of 60 clips |
| Mesh | Galvanised, black PVC coated or stainless steel 25mm x 12.5mm solar mesh |
Which solar mesh clip?
| Clip | Panel frame | Fixing | Removable | Typical quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Mesh Speed Clip (30, 35 or 40mm) | No lip needed; clips on to the side of the frame | Through the mesh apertures | Yes, by reversing the fitting | 5 per metre of mesh |
| Premium Adjustable Solarguard Mesh Clip (also in a box of 60) | Needs a return lip on the underside | Speed washer plus hand-tightened locking nut | Yes, can be removed for servicing | About 2 per metre (spaced every 450mm) |
| Solarguard Mesh Clip Push Fit (also in a box of 60) | Needs a return lip on the underside | Ratchet washer that works like a cable tie | No, single use | About 2 per metre (spaced every 450mm) |
How many clips do I need?
Our installation guide recommends 2 clips per metre. Add up the lengths of all the sides of your array and multiply by 2: a 30m perimeter needs 60 clips, which is one box.
Will my panels take this clip?
Check the underside edge of a panel. These clips need a return lip to fix to. If there is no lip, the Solar Mesh Speed Clip clips on to the side of the frame instead.
Do I need to drill the panels?
No. The clips bind the mesh to the panels without drilling holes or damaging the system, so they do not void the panel warranty.
Can I remove the mesh later?
Push fit clips are single use and are cut to remove the mesh. If you expect to take the mesh off, the premium adjustable clip can be removed and refitted.
For the full fitting method, step by step, see our solar mesh installation guide. To compare every kit on price, see what it costs to pigeon proof solar panels.
All wild birds, including feral pigeons and gulls, are protected by law, so check for active nests before you fit anything and never disturb one. Our page on bird control and the law explains what you can and cannot do.
