Protective bird mesh is an effective product for excluding pest birds – provided it meets a certain minimum standard.
Bird proofing solar panels is a growing market and a great opportunity for pest managers. But when it comes to choosing the right mesh for your pest control needs, not all products are created equal. Pest managers should be aware of discrepancies between products on the market, especially concerning the quality and durability of mesh products used for solar panel protection.
The weight of the matter
Solar mesh products are typically steel mesh coated in protective PVC coating. Did you know one key factor in determining the quality of steel mesh is its weight? The weight of the installation kit correlates directly with the thickness and strength of its components. Some products claim their mesh is made from 0.7 mm/1 mm gauge galvanised steel. However, upon closer inspection, some of these kits, including accessories and parts, weigh only 3.11 kg. In comparison, the Vexo Solarguard Pro kit 0.70 mm/1 mm gauge mesh alone weighs a solid 3.4 kg, with the complete kits ranging between 4.3-4.5 kg.
This significant difference in weight suggests that other solar mesh products are thinner and it can therefore be assumed that they will be less durable. In fact, the lightness of their product can make it resemble cheap chicken wire rather than the robust protective mesh needed for effective pest control. Are you willing to risk installing a solar panel mesh that birds or possums can simply push through?
The issue with J clip metal washers
Another critical aspect of a quality mesh kit is the ease and reliability of its installation. Some solar kits use J clip metal washers that can be difficult to slip on and fully secure. More concerningly, these clips are prone to loosening over time due to vibrations caused by wind and other factors. If your customers’ homes are in coastal areas, consider alternative fastening solutions to the J clip metal washers. These can compromise the integrity of the installation, and once the mesh does not hold up this potentially allows pests to breach the barrier.
In contrast, the Vexo Solarguard Pro kits come with specially designed UV stabilised nylon fasteners that are easy to fit, without the need for drilling or screwing, and they hold firmly. This method requires no drilling, glueing or penetration of solar panels to fit the mesh required. Hence this will not void the solar panel warranty. This means you can trust Vexo products to stay in place and perform effectively over time, even in challenging conditions. An example of a professional Solarguard Pro installation is shown in the main picture above.
Are your solar mesh kits UV resistant?
Australia’s reputation for intense sunlight and high UV radiation underscores the importance of selecting bird-proofing solutions engineered to withstand these harsh conditions. Failure to consider UV resistance can lead to premature deterioration of materials, necessitating frequent replacements. It is therefore imperative to opt for kits specifically designed to endure direct UV radiation. Look for products with warranties of at least five years or more to ensure long-term durability and effectiveness, to provide homeowners with peace of mind and confidence in the longevity of their solar mesh installations. Vexo Solarguard Pro kits are backed by a six-year warranty covering any material defects.
Proofing your solar service business reputation
When investing in pest control solutions, it’s crucial to look beyond surface claims and assess the actual quality of the products. Vexo Solarguard Pro kits, comprising genuine, premium grade stainless steel mesh together with secure fittings, offer superior durability and reliability compared to thinner, less secure alternatives on the market. Don’t settle for less when it comes to protecting your client’s solar investment and your business reputation — choose a product that guarantees quality and peace of mind.
