When it comes to increasing the energy efficiency of a project, solar panels provide many benefits, but architects often avoid using them for aesthetic reasons.
Today there are alternative solutions for adding solar receptors to the individual elements that make up the roof—the zone of greatest exposure to sunlight—that are less conspicuous and very effective in terms of energy production. One such example is solar thermal panels, which use the power of the sun to heat the building, produce hot water or generate heat for pools.
These new panels are made from natural slate stone, in formats ranging from 32×22 cm to 50×25 cm. The material elements not only ensure thermal inertia and impermeability, but are also able to heat up to 50 liters of water per day per square meter of surface — all while avoiding the average emission of 90 kg of CO2.
Thermoslate®. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Thermoslate®. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Methods of installation:
Installation with Nails
For pitched roofs, with an invisible, stainless stees fixing system.
Thermoslate® System with Nail. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Installation with Hooks
For pitched roofs, with a visible stainless steel fixing system.
Thermoslate® System with Hook. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Technical Solar Floor
For flat roofs, flooring or facades.
Thermoslate® Technical Solar Floor. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Installation Process
Installation of the Bottom Integration Piece
Thermoslate®. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Installation of the Thermoslate® Collectors
Thermoslate®. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Installation of the Perimeter Strips
Thermoslate®. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Water Pipe Connection Between Collectors
Thermoslate®. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Installation of the Waterproofing Kit
Thermoslate®. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras
Integration With the Natural Slate Roof
Thermoslate®. Image Courtesy of Cupa Pizarras