VIII. ROOF
MOUNTS
The structure of the roof should first be examined to determine the dimensions of its members.
Check applicable codes as to loading requirements. The roof penetrations should be located
over an attic or similar space that is not blocked by a chimney, beams, or other obstacles.
Preparation of the roof area and procedures for anchoring to the roof members must be done
carefully to avoid causing leaks or weakening the roof. In a new home installation, much of the
mounting work can be performed after the roof has been framed and sheathed. In some cases,
such as built-up roofs, the mounting work can be performed before the waterproof membrane is
applied. On tile roofs, the mounting work is best performed after the waterproof membrane is
applied, but before the tiles are laid.
The P
ROGRESSIV
T
UBE
®
was specifically designed for maximum performance and draining when
mounted horizontally. A level horizontal position is the only acceptable mount for installations
above latitude 40
0
. Installing a unit in a vertical position is not recommended. If a unit is
installed vertically there will be considerable air entrapment within the absorber/storage tank
and, once filled, it is very difficult to drain.
A collector is exposed not only to sunlight and its destructive ultraviolet radiation, but also to
wind forces. Collectors installed in areas that experience hurricane force winds are particularly
challenged. Florida codes require that a collector and its mounting structure be able to
withstand intermittent wind loads up to 140+ mph. P
ROGRESSIV
T
UBE
®
units and mounting
hardware have been wind load tested to 180 mph and hundreds of units have survived storms
with winds in excess of 180 mph. The structural integrity of a collector is most important when
considering long-term performance.
A. Load Bearing and Bracing
Whenever possible, mount the collector over a load-bearing wall or near the peak of the
pitched roof (usually within 15” of the roof crown). If neither of these sites are practical
and the collector must be installed on an open span of roof, extra means must be
employed to ensure a safe, proper installation. If the roof structure is of a 2”x4” truss
design, spread the load over at least five trusses and reinforce, or brace all truss
members where needed to comply with local building codes.
See the Typical Roof
Bracing drawings in the Appendix
for suggested roof structure bracing.
Note: When filled, a single P
ROGRESSIV
T
UBE
®
collector can weigh between 240 lbs and
665 lbs.
Do Not
mount the collector without adequate support as determined by
applicable building codes and sound building safety practices.
B. Roof Piping and Penetrations
It is best to locate pipe penetrations through the roof as close to the collectors as
possible.
In some cases it may be possible to pipe both the supply and return lines
through the same penetration
.
Piping through the roof must be weather proofed.
Usually, a hole is drilled in the roof large enough for the copper pipe to pass through. A
standard plumbing roof vent stack flashing cover is placed around the hole with its base
cemented to the roof using appropriate roof caulking such as polyurethane. Slide its
upper edge under the adjoining shingle. Caulking is then placed in the top and around
the copper pipe and insulation. A “coolie cap” can be fashioned,
see Drawing D
,
to
12
Summary of Contents for PROGRESSIV TUBE
Page 54: ...YOUR NOTES 54...
