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What Is the Best Bird Mesh for Solar Panels?

7 days ago
2 min read

For most solar panel pigeon proofing jobs, we prefer black PVC coated galvanized steel mesh installed with metal solar panel clips.


The material matters, but installation quality matters just as much. Even strong mesh will not stop pigeons if corners, roof transitions, or other openings are left exposed.





Why PVC Coated Galvanized Steel Mesh?


Cheetah uses black PVC coated galvanized steel mesh because it gives you several useful features in one material:

  • Steel provides strength

  • Galvanization helps protect the steel from corrosion

  • PVC adds another layer of protection

  • Black mesh is less noticeable around most solar arrays


We prefer this over ordinary uncoated hardware cloth for long term rooftop bird exclusion.

You can learn more about our solar panel bird mesh installation.



Is Plastic Mesh Good Enough?


We generally prefer steel mesh.


Plastic is easier to cut and may cost less, but an Arizona rooftop is a harsh environment.

Long term exposure to sun and heat makes durability especially important.


For a barrier intended to stay around the solar array for years, we would rather use metal.



Continuous Roll Mesh or Precut Mesh?


We generally prefer continuous roll mesh that is measured and cut on the roof.


Precut systems use many separate sections around the array. If one section becomes loose, an opening can develop in that area.


With a properly installed continuous run, nearby attachment points provide more redundancy.


Continuous mesh can still fail if installed poorly. It is not a substitute for good workmanship.



What About the Clips?


The clips are important because they are what keep the mesh attached to the solar array.


Cheetah generally prefers metal solar panel clips instead of plastic clips because of concerns about long term plastic brittleness in Arizona rooftop conditions.


The mesh should also be installed using a non invasive attachment method that does not require drilling into the solar panel frames.


Does the Best Mesh Matter if It Is Installed Poorly?


No.


A good installation needs to close the entire exposed perimeter, including:

  • Corners

  • Changes in roof height

  • Irregular panel layouts

  • Gaps near mounting equipment

  • Areas where the distance between the roof and panels changes


Pigeons do not need the entire installation to fail. They only need one usable opening.



Should the Area Be Cleaned Before Mesh Is Installed?


If pigeons have already been nesting underneath the panels, accessible nests and nesting material should be removed before the area is enclosed.


Cheetah provides bird nest removal from underneath solar panels as part of applicable pigeon control projects.


Installing good mesh around a dirty nesting area does not address everything underneath it.



The Bottom Line


For solar panel pigeon proofing, our preferred setup is:


Black PVC coated galvanized steel mesh, metal clips, continuous roll installation, and careful fitting around the entire exposed perimeter.


The material is important, but the best bird mesh will still perform poorly if it is installed with gaps.


 
 
 

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