Birds are welcome guests in our gardens. However, birds’ relationship with the built environment may be problematical. As a result, it is important to protect our buildings. Solar arrays offer a secure environment for animals. Hence, it is important to know how to protect solar panels using bird mesh.

Health risks caused by birds

Pigeon’s are a health risk to humans, not just from their droppings, but also because they may carry disease. These diseases include Chiamdiosis, a virus similar to influenza and Psittacosis, which is similar to pneumonia.

Pigeon faeces can also presents a health hazard when dried. Spores can be produced from the dried droppings. Once inhaled the spores can cause a flu-like illness in humans. Accordingly, we always advise the use of a filter mask when cleaning or removing any bird waste.

In the past decade, there has been a 40% increase in the number of households using solar power. Birds are attracted to the shaded areas beneath solar arrays. Hence, it is important to protect your solar panels using bird mesh.

How to install solar panel bird mesh on your Wirral property

How to protect your solar panels from pigeons

• Firstly, remove any birds from under panels. This has to be done safely and humanely as possible. Please WAIT if there are eggs or chicks are in the nests.
• Cut solar panel bird mesh with metal cutters into 1-2 metre lengths. We advise the use gloves when using cutters.
• It’s better to start proofing from the top first then the sides. This will stop the birds getting access whilst you’re going up and down your ladder.
• Bend up two to three squares of the mesh (see illustrations below). This will help to lock the mesh snugly to the roof tiles. Bending the mesh can easily be done over a flat edge by hand.

• Slide the clip onto the underside edge of the panel support bracket. Slide as far outwards as possible so that the clip fits all the way to the back of the panel lip.
• Set the wire mesh screen in place. Make sure the clips come through the screen at an upward angle to keep downward pressure on the screen.
• Slide the plastic washer onto the shaft of the clip assembly. Make adjustments to the screen as necessary. Then pull washers as tight as possible.
• Cut off any excess mesh protruding over the edge of the solar panels. Trim the clip flush with the exterior of the washer. Zip ties can be used on all the corner joints, then cut flush.

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