Delivered on behalf of SDE Group
As more commercial sites invest in solar infrastructure, the need for effective bird control has never been more important.
Falcon Environmental Services was recently appointed by SDE Group, the principal contractor installing new solar panels at TrustFord in Ashton Gate, Bristol.
Our role was to design and install a free-standing bird netting system that would protect the new solar arrays from the damage caused by nesting and roosting gulls.
Why Effective Bird Netting Systems?
Bird activity on commercial roofs can cause a wide range of structural and operational issues. Fouling is one of the biggest problems. Bird droppings are highly acidic and can erode protective coatings, stain surfaces, and reduce the efficiency of solar panels. Nesting materials and debris often block gutters, downpipes, and drainage channels. This leads to water pooling, leaks, or even roof collapse in severe cases.
Feathers, nesting materials, and droppings can also accumulate under and around solar arrays, creating fire risks and harbouring pests such as mites. Over time, birds can cause physical damage to cabling, fixings, and delicate panel components as they attempt to perch or nest. Combined, these issues increase maintenance costs, reduce system performance, and shorten the lifespan of the rooftop assets.
Working closely with SDE Group, we delivered a non-intrusive and durable bird netting solution that ensures full roof protection without compromising the integrity of the new solar installation.
The Project Scope
To provide comprehensive protection across the site, we installed a standalone bird netting system covering three separate roof areas. The installation was designed to prevent gull access entirely, stopping perching, bird nesting and roosting activity around the solar panels.
Our system was built using robust, non-piercing and corrosion-resistant components, ensuring longevity and compliance with the requirements of the principal contractor.
The Scope of Works Included:
- Supply and installation of a free-standing bird netting system across three roofs.
- Construction using Qwik Feet non-piercing roof mounts to protect the roof membrane.
- Stainless steel struts and a tensioned stainless-steel wire framework to support the netting.
- Heavy-duty seagull netting, fixed at 75mm intervals for maximum effectiveness.
- Mechanically secured anchor points to ensure long-term durability.
- A fully comprehensive roof protection system that eliminates gull access.
Key Project Outcomes
Our installation provided TrustFord and SDE Group with a robust long-term bird control solution designed specifically for complex commercial solar environments.
Outcomes Delivered:
- Complete protection of all three roof areas.
- Safeguarding of newly installed solar panels, preventing fouling, nesting material build-up, and potential damage.
- Non-piercing system maintained roof integrity, avoiding any membrane or cladding penetration.
- High-performance materials such as stainless steel wiring and heavy-duty netting to ensure longevity.
- Improved cleanliness and reduced maintenance for the client due to the elimination of bird activity.
- Zero disruption to the principal contractor, with all work completed alongside ongoing solar installation operations.
Working in Partnership with Principal Contractors
At Falcon Environmental Services, we pride ourselves on being seen as an extension of the teams we work with. Collaboration, communication, and safety are at the core of our approach.
For SDE Group, this meant delivering a fully managed, non-invasive installation that supported their solar works, preserved roof integrity, and provided the client with long-term cost savings.
Protecting Solar Installations From Bird Damage
As solar installations become more common across UK commercial sites, integrated bird-proofing solutions like free-standing netting systems are essential for maintaining performance and longevity.
This project at TrustFord demonstrates how effective bird control, when implemented correctly, can protect assets, reduce maintenance and create better working environments for contractors and end clients.
If your site requires solar panel protection or a bespoke roof bird control system, our team is here to help. Contact us on 01752 929292 to discuss your requirements.
