Many Bermudians are beginning to understand the great benefits of a Bermuda Engineering Company-installed solar system at their home or business.
Whether it’s a solar thermal system for hot water or a photovoltaic (PV) system for electricity, ‘going solar’ certainly provides compelling financial results.
However, many Bermudians have expressed justified concerns about hurricane conditions and how a solar system would stand up to the elements.
The Bermuda Engineering Company (BEC) is very aware of these concerns, and has designed a customized solution for Bermuda’s unique roof system.
We utilize the highest quality techniques and materials, to ensure a strong, watertight and durable solar system that will last for decades.
The way our roof mounting system works is simple, but very effective.
A stainless steel hanger bolt is mounted directly to the rafter, ensuring that all lifting loads on the system are transferred directly to the roof structure.
A two inch fibre-reinforced concrete column is then poured around the hanger bolt.
This combination provides a very solid resistance to the dynamic loads that a system will encounter during high wind conditions. The BEC motto is ‘No Weight On The Slate!’
Furthermore, once the solar system is installed, the Bermuda roof actually becomes stronger, as the solar racking reinforces the entire roof structure beneath where it is installed.
There have been many cases in southern Florida where hurricane-force winds have removed most of a roof, but the area beneath a solar system remains intact due to the increased reinforcement it creates.
Quality
Additionally, there are a number of solar systems that have been installed in Bermuda for decades.
These systems have withstood the wrath of hurricanes such as Emily and Fabian, not to mention countless winter gales experienced over the years.
In Bermuda, as we experience a very salty and corrosive environment, only the highest quality materials, such as 316 grade (marine grade) stainless steel fasteners, anodized aluminum frames, and fibre-reinforced concrete will provide structural integrity for the lifetime of the system.
Bermuda Engineering guarantees that all installations utilize only the best quality materials, and are designed to endure the Bermuda elements.
The ‘Bermuda Engineering system’ is compatible for all Bermuda roof types, including traditional slate, SKB-style, concrete slab, and flat cement board-style roofs.
BEC also offers custom solutions for ground-mounted solar systems and has installed solar pergola/shade structures.
We offer numerous ways to reduce your energy consumption and your reliance on fossil fuels.
Our philosophy of superior products, workmanship and service is inspired by our desire to provide Bermuda with the highest quality and most cost-effective solutions.
Make sure you are aware of all the factors before considering a solar system in Bermuda. BEC takes pride in a system that is designed specifically for our island, and built to last.
Know your options, and know that Bermuda Engineering — a company with a 75-year track record — is here to endure the elements.
• Travis Burland is chief engineer at Bermuda Engineering Company Ltd. Find out more at www.bermudaengineering.com or call 279-5907.