Joints and Joint Sealing
Façade elements are joined together between adjacent components. The joints
must allow for mechanical movements. This prevents cracks from occurring.
Joints must be sealed like all other PV components. There are a few sealant
options: contact sealant made with Neoprene or other similar products, or adhe-
sive sealant made with silicone or other polymers.
Photovoltaic Façades
Photovoltaics can be used in front of or as part of building façades. Mounting PV
modules on the façades of buildings is a specialty of certain professional glaziers.
When installing, work with a builder or glazier who is one of these specialists.
Look over the building regulations for façades before deciding to use modules on
the façade of the building. Not all modules are suitable for mounting on façades.
There are advantages of façade mounting. They include:
Aesthetic appeal, because the modules are often very pleasing to look at
Abundant surface area to mount a PV module
Enormous possibilities for design and creativity
Ease of securing panels to existing façades
The possibility of using integrated modules that can replace façade elements,
providing weather protection and insulation
Glass Roofs
Glass roof structures are used in buildings that are top-lit by daylight. Glass roofs
are often equipped with solar protection to prevent overheating or glare. PV
modules are great options for glass roofs. They provide shade and glare protec-
tion. However, they must be made with unbreakable glass, meet special guidelines
for the mounting system, and be designed for a specific project. PV modules are
suitable for glass roofs above staircases, atria, railway platforms, or carports.
Solar Protection Devices for Glass Buildings
In all-glass buildings, solar protection is necessary. External solar protection
devices such as canopies do not allow sunlight to enter the building. Buildings
with solar protection devices are missing a chance to convert sunlight into heat.
Combining solar shading devices and PV elements is one such opportunity.
Fixed and tracking shading devices are two types of solar protection mecha-
nisms. Fixed solar shading devices are the simplest form. They can be effective if
placed properly. Canopies are the most popular fixed solar shading. They can
block out high summer sun. In winter, they can catch any sunlight that occurs.
Movable or tracking solar shading devices can be adjusted vertically or horizon-
tally. Louvers are the most popular movable solar shading device. PV modules are
placed on the lower parts of the louvers to ensure that they are not shaded by the
louvers above.
80 ADVANCED PHOTOVOLTAIC INSTALLATIONS
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