Attaching Solar Panels Cables to Van Roof

[poindexter]

Hey Forum, quick question please if I may:

Can I ask what is the best way to fix down the solar panel cables to the roof of my van?

I am thinking conduit is overkill. I could Sikaflex them down but this seems a bit micky mouse (maybe it isn't). Can I ask how others have done it please?

Many thanks

 

[monzer]

I used plastic trunking stuck down to the roof. Keeps the cables hidden away nicely.

 

[donkey]

Self adhesive cable clips. Make sure to clean surface well.

Geoff

 

[jongood]

I used plastic trunking stuck down to the roof. Keeps the cables hidden away nicely.

Me too, stops them flapping. Dependant where the entry gland is you could drill the panel frames and cable tie them though

 

[RustyRuss]

Self adhesive plastic trunking is a very neat solution, and a 2metre length from Screwfix is around £3, no-brainer in my opinion.
Cheers! Russ

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[Revolvor]

Self adhesive cable trunking.

 

[berni109]

I used this with extra sika along the edges

D-Line Maxi 1.5m 50 x 25mm | Toolstation

D-Line 50x25mm Trunking is quick to install & looks great • This 1.5m option is popular to contain cables from wall mounted TV’s • Can save channelling walls • Unique stylish ‘D-Line’ blends with décor appearance • Preferred by clients; easy to add or remove cables • Paintable

www.toolstation.com

It's big enough to cover the connector(staggered not side by side).

 

[Lenny HB]

Mini trunking bot don't use the self adhesive stuff it will start coming off in hot sunshine. Use the standard stuff as Berni say the D line looks good then use a PU adhesive like Stika to bond it to the roof.

 

[Orion]

If it’s just cables without connectors that are being run then the D-Line Micro+ conduit at 20x10mm is a good option. Available in black or white with elbows and other fittings on Amazon etc. As Lenny HB points out, use mastic to secure it and don’t rely on the sticky backing for an external use.

 

[RustyRuss]

Mini trunking bot don't use the self adhesive stuff it will start coming off in hot sunshine. Use the standard stuff as Berni say the D line looks good then use a PU adhesive like Stika to bond it to the roof.

Hi Lenny,
I used standard 16x25mm sticky trunking on our roof to conceal our solar panel cabling, i thoroughly cleaned the areas where it was going to be positioned with pvc window cleaning fluid first (this is ACE for cleaning your roof BTW). It’s been in place for 3.5 years now and even survived 40+ centigrade for 3 weeks in southern France last June/July. I think the issue here is as per that well known squadron of soldiers from Hereford…… Proper Preparation and Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance!! I’m still an electrical assessor & lecturer at a college in the NW so I also add Paper Pencil Pen Pass & Phone to get 12 “P’s” instead of just 7!!

Cheers!

Russ

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[urban_biker]

I used self adhesive cable clips when I did mine. When eventually they detached ( which they do after a few years) I just stuck them down with sikflex.

In hindsight I wish I had used trunking as it think it looks neater. Also you still get some movement from the cables when using ties so you can get some paint wear. Plus trunking makes the roof easier to clean.

 

[Lenny HB]

Hi Lenny,
I used standard 16x25mm sticky trunking on our roof to conceal our solar panel cabling, i thoroughly cleaned the areas where it was going to be positioned with pvc window cleaning fluid first (this is ACE for cleaning your roof BTW). It’s been in place for 3.5 years now and even survived 40+ centigrade for 3 weeks in southern France last June/July. I think the issue here is as per that well known squadron of soldiers from Hereford…… Proper Preparation and Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance!! I’m still an electrical assessor & lecturer at a college in the NW so I also add Paper Pencil Pen Pass & Phone to get 12 “P’s” instead of just 7!!

Cheers!

Russ

The problem with the self adhesive stuff is that it depends how long it has been in stock it's not worth the risk. I used it once and found it lifting off after a few year and yes the roof was cleaned properly.

 

[Coolcats]

The problem with the self adhesive stuff is that it depends how long it has been in stock it's not worth the risk. I used it once and found it lifting off after a few year and yes the roof was cleaned properly.

Its interesting you have to have the right double sided stuff, I have used some which is available in the high street which is normally carp.

I found that 3M do a range of VHB tapes and if you get the right one for the job. (they don't all do the same thing so its important to get the right one) they do exactly what you need it too, the 3M technical help desk are really helpful. If you get the right tape for the right job you won't be disappointed. The tapes do have an expiry date but that's the same for most adhesives.

Show Hauler
3M VHB Tape Scooter - Rethink Tape

3M VHB Structural Glazing Tape - Mission Glass​

3M™ VHB™ Tapes​

 

[Lenny HB]

Its interesting you have to have the right double sided stuff, I have used some which is available in the high street which is normally carp.

I found that 3M do a range of VHB tapes and if you get the right one for the job. (they don't all do the same thing so its important to get the right one) they do exactly what you need it too, the 3M technical help desk are really helpful. If you get the right tape for the right job you won't be disappointed. The tapes do have an expiry date but that's the same for most adhesives.

Show Hauler
3M VHB Tape Scooter - Rethink Tape

3M VHB Structural Glazing Tape - Mission Glass​

3M™ VHB™ Tapes​

But most people don't that they buy the trunking with tape already attached.

Not much point in buying tape when you have a tube of Stika around.

 

[Coolcats]

But most people don't that they buy the trunking with tape already attached.

Not much point in buying tape when you have a tube of Stika around.

if you have an appropriate adhesive sure why not, the 3M tape is amazing stuff just buy the trunking clean the area apply the tape and away you go no mess no fuss and lasts (dont buy pre-taped trunking).

The touch schauldt panel in our Hymer fell off and you often see this on ones which are not screwed on, I applied 3m and four and a bit years later it has not moved.

Just really saying if you use tape get a 3M VHB tape for the job and its fit and forget.

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