Solar Installation Guide & Accessories

Canvas installations:

Solbian panels can be installed directly into canvas biminis and dodgers because they are so thin and light. The panel can actually be stitched through for velcro or zipper attachment. With this type of installation, the panels can be removed easily and stowed safely during the off season. Additionally, this type of installation is a great option if you don’t want to affect the aesthetics of your boat.

Here is a link to our Canvas Installation Guidelines.

Deck Installations:

Panels can be installed into the deck a number of different ways.  Some panels can be ordered with a back side, peel and stick adhesive. Panels can also be installed with fasteners or double sided VHB tape.   Solbian SP panels can be ordered with backside wiring so that the wiring can go below deck through a hole under the panel.  If the panel has a junction box you will need some sort of deck seal or cable port to route the wire below deck. We recommend that the panel is fully supported and unable to bend if it will be walked on at all.

Picture Frame Installation:

An alternative for mechanical fastening is the ‘Picture Frame’ method.  Using starboard, or wood, create a rabbeted frame that captures all four edges of the panel, but still allows it to move with heat expansion. This frame is then fastened to the surface, and the panel ‘floats’ inside of the frame.  See images to the right

Davits and rail installations:

Glass panels are great for these installations.  Semi-flexible panels can be installed for these applications as long as they are well-supported and cannot bend beyond their rating.  Check out the Solara page for more information on panels for these installations.