Bird Spikes
What are Bird Spikes?
Bird spikes, also known as anti-roosting spikes, are physical deterrents designed to prevent birds from landing, perching, or nesting on surfaces such as roofs, ledges, signs, walls and solar panels. They consist of rows of pointed spikes that make it uncomfortable or impossible for birds to settle on the area where they are installed.
Installation of Bird Spikes on Solar Panels:
1. Assessment:
- An initial survey is conducted to determine the areas most prone to bird activity around your solar panels. This includes edges, frames, and specific spots where birds tend to land or nest.
2. Preparation:
- Clear any existing bird nests, droppings, or debris from the surface and surrounding areas. Safety precautions are taken, especially for roof work.
3. Choosing the Right Spikes:
- Material: Bird spikes are typically made from stainless steel, plastic, or polycarbonate. Stainless steel is durable but more visible, while plastic or polycarbonate can be less obtrusive in appearance.
- Size: Spikes come in various lengths and widths. The choice depends on the size of the birds you're deterring; longer spikes for larger birds like pigeons, shorter for smaller species.
4. Installation:
- Base: Bird spikes have a base that either clips, glues, or screws onto the surface.
- Clips: For solar panels, clips that attach to the panel frame are used to avoid drilling into the panels themselves.
- Adhesives: High-quality, weather-resistant adhesives are used for non-invasive installation.
- Screws: If necessary and permissible, screws may be used on non-solar parts like roof edges or mounts.
- Placement: Spikes are installed along the edges of the panels, on the frames, or on any flat surface where birds might land. They should be installed in a way that they cover the entire potential landing area without gaps. Spikes should be placed close enough together that birds can't comfortably balance between them.
5. Aesthetic and Functional Considerations:
- Visibility: While effective, bird spikes are visible, so placement should consider both aesthetics and functionality.
- Efficiency: The team will ensure that the spikes do not shade the panels or interfere with their operation.
6. Maintenance:
- Over time, check for any dislodged spikes or areas where birds have found a way around them. Cleaning around the spikes might be necessary to remove bird droppings that could reduce panel efficiency.
Benefits of Bird Spikes:
- Effective Deterrence: They physically prevent birds from landing, reducing the likelihood of nesting and droppings.
- Longevity: High-quality spikes can last for many years, especially stainless steel ones.
- Low Maintenance: Once installed, they require minimal upkeep beyond occasional checks.
Considerations:
- Visual Impact: Spikes are more noticeable than some other methods like mesh or skirts.
- **Not always a Complete Solution**: Birds can sometimes find ways to nest if there are gaps in coverage or if they access from another direction. Bird Spikes are not a solution for bird proofing solar panels.