BMS - Solar Panel Pigeon Proofing

pigeons nesting under solar panels

As solar panels have become increasingly ubiquitous across the UK, the problem with feral pigeons nesting under the panels has become a major issue.

The gap under a solar panel is the perfect size for a feral pigeon to start building a nest and rear their young. Once one pigeon has moved in, others will follow, and you can soon have an entire colony of pigeons living on your roof.

This can not only cause problems with the operation of your solar panels but also lead to leaking roofs, blocked gutters, and insect infestations. Large amounts of pigeon fouling can cause very unpleasant smells and can be a serious health hazard.

Many of our customers complain that the noise made by the pigeons is the biggest annoyance, especially in the early hours of the morning.

We can offer a complete solution to evict the pigeons, remove the mess, decontaminate, and then install the proofing to prevent them from returning.

our process

With years of experience in installing solar panel proofing, we have developed a 4 step process for all our installation projects.

live pigeons

Any live pigeons on the roof or under the panels will be shooed away.
We then treat the roof under the solar panels with a biocidal spray to kill off any harmful bacteria that may be present in the fouling. This makes the fouling safe for removal.

fouling removal

We then remove the pigeon droppings, nesting materials, and any dead pigeons from under the panels. This will be placed in sealed bags and taken away from the site to be disposed of in the appropriate manner.

We will also clear any debris that has fallen down into the gutters and give another biocide treatment to neutralise any harmful bacteria that remains.

proofing

The panels are then proofed to prevent the pigeons from returning.

The proofing method can vary but will consist of one of the forms of proofing described below, depending on suitability. This will be discussed with the customer at the time of the initial survey.

We can also install proofing in other areas, such as roof ridges, chimneys, and TV aerials.

washing

Finally, the optional step of washing the tops of the solar panels. Due to the very delicate nature of solar panels, we do not use any harsh chemicals or abrasives.

Only soft brushes and water are used, so the panels are not damaged in any way.

proofing methods

Solar panel proofing consists of installing a physical barrier around the perimeter of the panels to completely prevent the pigeons from getting underneath.

As most solar panel warranties are invalidated if anything is screwed into them, the proofing system must either be clipped on or stuck on with glue.

Proofing will generally consist of one of two methods. Each method has their own advantages, though both are 100% effective at keeping the pigeons out. The method used will be determined during the initial site survey, and our reasons for selecting one or the other will be discussed with the customer.

mesh

This method consists of 25mm X 25mm 16 gauge welded mesh sections. These are attached to the framework of the solar panels using specially designed UV- stabilised polycarbonate clips.

Using the clips ensures the solar panels are not damaged in any way (and thus invalidating any warranties) and are removable, ensuring access underneath the panels if needed in the future.

solar guard

Not to be confused with standard bird spikes, these specially designed solar panel spikes are quicker and easier to install than mesh, making them more suited to roofs where access is difficult. They consist of adjustable stainless steel pins attached to a polycarbonate base. which is glued to the edge of the panels. The height of the pins is then adjusted to match the contours of the roof tiles.

Because the spikes are glued on, they are not removable, but the pins can be slid back up to allow access under the panels if needed.

Further Information

Other Facts

Solar panel mesh clips attach to a flange on the rear of the panels. Occasionally we encounter panels with flanges that are not deep enough to accommodate the clips. In these situations, Solar Guard is the only option.
Although the mesh clips are easily removable, they are a single-use item and are not replaceable. If access is required under the panels at any time, new clips will be needed to put the mesh back.
The glue used for Solar Guard is a high strength polymer adhesive that is both strong and long lasting. We do not use a normal silicon adhesive.
Access is usually either by ladders, scaffolds, cherry pickers or some combination of the three. Every house is different, and our quotation will be tailored to include the appropriate form of access equipment for your property.
We will usually carry out a site survey before providing a quotation, but sometimes we can quote from a photograph.

Suitable For

Pigeons

Areas of Use

Solar Panels

Why choose Bird Management Solutions?

Bird Management Solutions has been installing solar panel proofing since the first panel proofing products came on the market around 15 years ago. We’ve installed proofing on a large array of buildings - not just domestic houses but also schools, churches, and office blocks.
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We have extensive experience in installing solar panel proofing, so if you have any queries or wish to book a free consultation, please contact us to speak to a qualified bird proofing specialist.