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Underlayment footprint...
The boundaries of the underlayment (i.e., both Leak Barrier and Roof
Deck Protection) are recommended to extend approximately 3' (914 mm) beyond the boundary
edge of the sides and the top of the solar array. Extension of the underlayment footprint from the
solar array is not required from the bottom edge of the solar array.
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Roof penetration…
Conductors entering the building roof shall comply with NEC and be installed
with appropriate conduit penetration flashing.
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Attic ventilation…
Address the requirements for proper attic ventilation if the underlayment used
underneath the DecoTech™ Solar System covers large areas of the roof.
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Ice dams…
Do not install the DecoTech™ Solar Array near areas of the roof that are prone to ice
damming.
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Shingle mismatch…
When installing a DecoTech™ Solar Array on an existing roof, all the shingles
in the plane of the roof with the solar array must be removed and replaced with GAF Shingles.
New shingles used in the plane of the installed solar array may not initially match existing shingles
in the other roof planes due to weathering and available colors for new shingles. However, color
variation may diminish over time.
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Wind resistance/hand sealing...
Generally, shingles that are installed around the solar array have
a special thermal sealant which firmly bonds the shingles together after application when exposed
to sun and warm temperatures. Shingles installed in fall or winter may not seal until the following
spring. If shingles are damaged by winds before sealing or are not exposed to adequate surface
temperatures, or if the self-sealant gets dirty, the shingles may never seal. Failure to seal under
these circumstances results from the nature of self-sealing shingles, and is not a manufacturing
defect. If shingles are to be applied during PROLONGED COLD periods or in areas where airborne
dust or sand can be expected before sealing occurs, the shingles MUST be hand-sealed. See GAF
Shingle application instructions for more information.
Installation Requirements
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Safety first…
Follow all of the safety precautions outlined in Section 1.
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Follow roofing best practices…
Follow all related GAF Shingle application instructions and
standard trade practices. Special attention is needed when stripping the shingles, installing
underlayment, and flashing around the DecoTech™ Solar Array.
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Install direction…
The rows of solar module assemblies are initially positioned from left to right,
and then attached to the deck from right to left. Rows of solar module assemblies are installed
from bottom to top.
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Obtain permits…
The installer must comply with local, regional, and national building codes (IBC,
IFC, NEC, etc.) and obtain necessary permits and approvals from the local jurisdiction prior to
installing the DecoTech™ Solar System.
