Massive snow retention system installed.

Just weeks away from completion, the PNE Amphitheatre in Vancouver will feature one of the longest timber arch roofs in the world. Created of 60 interlaced timber arches that form into six remarkable barrel vaults, the massive 344-foot-wide starburst roof span will cover a 10,000-seat open-air entertainment facility. 

Designed by Revery Architecture, the $183 million project (officially called the Freedom Mobile Arch) is planned for year-round use. In Vancouver, where the average annual snowfall during the past 10 years has been 15.2 inches, the architectural firm specified a specialized snow retention system for the spectacular roof to assure the safe controlled evacuation of snow from its surface. 

Focus on snow retention

Snow retention was considered early in the development of the Freedom Mobile Arch. Everyone involved in the project, from the structural engineering team at Fast + Epp, to the code consultants at RWDI to the general contractors at EllisDon, were concerned with the issue. Working together, they consulted with the installation/execution team of Bothwell-Accurate, to find the best solution. Several meetings with Engineered Architecturals™ LTD and snow retention proposals using products from Rocky Mountain Snow Guards and S-5!® brought the resolution.

“We recommended a Single-Ply ColorGard® Bar-Style Snow Guard System that allowed the architects to achieve pattern designs with a distributed layout across the field of the roof for snow retention,” according to Nathan Morlock, president of Engineered Architecturals LTD. “These are sturdy metal pieces with a low profile that, when placed in a strategic pattern, can handle snow retention needs for this unique roof.”

Due to the massive size of the roof, Rocky Mountain Snow Guards provided 2,475 Single Ply Baseplates, 2,475 ColorGard® 2.0/X-Gard® Adapters and an expansive amount of aluminum tubing for the ferrules (used to create a pathway through the roof’s “build up materials” such as insulation, between the roof substructure and top membrane) to allow for fastening the baseplates. Engineered Architecturals obtained the extensive quantities of ColorGard Bars and VersaClips™ from S-5! to complete the system. According to Andrew Lewis, Project Manager at Bothwell-Accurate, the ColorGard Bars were painted in a Benjamin Moore® OC-56 color called Moonshine.

“The baseplate approach of attachment was critical given the roof build-up and scale,” notes Morlock. “That’s what made the system workable across the full assembly. There were varying depths of insulation over the back of the amphitheater, and a transition making installation at that location fairly complex.”

Starburst geometry to roof

Constructed primarily with Douglas Fir glulam and Spruce-Pine-Fir cross-laminated timber, the stunning roof on the Freedom Mobile Arch project was installed with acoustic and sound containment features. A rainwater collection system was also constructed into the roof and foundation to help provide landscaping and regulate runoff. 

"There are so many incredible features of this roof,” says Morlock. “Our company has dealt with the supply and coordination of snow retention products for many projects over the years. However, nothing beats this one. We’re pleased that we helped the designers achieve the aesthetic look they wanted for the roof with this specific snow retention product while providing a safe way for melting snows to gently slide off the Freedom Mobile Arch.”

By Fiona Maguire-O’Shea, S-5!

Projects like Soledad illustrate the role innovative mounting systems can play in expanding renewable energy access while reducing installation costs and complexity.

Reliable electricity remains a major barrier to economic growth in remote communities worldwide. In Soledad, Peru, an Amazon rainforest community reached only after days of travel by road and river, a new off-grid solar expansion is helping a local plantain flour production facility increase output, support local farmers and create more economic opportunity. The installation also demonstrates how rail-less solar mounting can simplify rooftop installations in hard-to-access locations. 

The photovoltaic project was led by Canadian-based charity Light Up The World (LUTW), which provides photovoltaic systems and hands-on renewable energy training to underserved communities. With support from industry partners, including donated solar mounting solutions from S-5! and solar modules from Silfab Solar, LUTW expanded the facility’s energy capacity to support increased production.  

S-5!’s support for the Soledad project builds on an earlier LUTW collaboration in Huarcaya, Peru, where the company provided solar attachments for an off-grid school serving nearly 150 students and more than 15 teachers. That first partner project demonstrated the real-world impact of reliable solar access in remote communities and helped set the stage for continued collaboration. 

Expanding economic opportunity through solar 

The solar-powered facility is operated by Terra Nuova, a Peru-based development organization, and the Winchinkim Agricultural and Aquaculture Producers Association (ASPAAW), a local producer association supporting agricultural and aquaculture-based economic development in the region. The facility first began production in 2022 after LUTW installed its initial solar system. Since then, it has become a critical source of employment and economic activity within the region. 

The latest solar expansion will allow the facility to significantly increase production capacity by powering industrial-scale dehydration ovens used in plantain flour manufacturing — a growing export product for markets including Europe and Ecuador. Plantain is a staple food source in the region, and the facility can process up to 60 tons of green bananas per month, providing a reliable market for local producers whose crops previously had no guaranteed buyer. 

“This is the first major business in Soledad,” explained Aaron Cohen, executive director of LUTW. “By expanding the facility’s energy capacity, the project is helping create stable employment and income for local families while supporting farmers throughout the region.” 

“Before, producers didn’t have a consistent, reliable place to sell their crops,” said Alan Mariano Antich, general manager of ASPAAW and plant manager. “Many experienced losses because there were few market opportunities. Now, the plant purchases from local producers, giving them a market that is 100% guaranteed.” 

The impact extends well beyond the facility itself. More than 500 people live in the surrounding community, and local farmers depend on the plantain processing operation as a key source of revenue. With additional energy capacity now available, the facility expects to double both production output and workforce capacity, growing from eight to 16 employees. 

Overcoming extreme installation challenges 

While the humanitarian impact is significant, the project also highlights the logistical advantages of a lightweight, rail-less rooftop mounting system in difficult-to-access environments. The recent installation expanded the facility’s total system size to 32 kWp, with the S-5! PVKIT supporting 42 panels accounting for 16 kWp. By utilizing the facility’s existing metal roof, the team avoided the added materials, labor and complexity of building a separate ground-mounted support structure. 

Reaching Soledad requires approximately three days of travel to the nearest road-accessible point, followed by two additional days by boat along the Rio Santiago River, with travel limited to daylight hours due to difficult river conditions and lack of navigational lighting. 

In a location where every component must travel by boat, S-5!’s lightweight attachment technology reduced the shipment to just three compact boxes of brackets and clips, dramatically lowering transportation costs, simplifying logistics and making the project far more practical to execute.  

“This project demonstrated how critical lightweight, adaptable rooftop mounting technology can be for remote solar deployments,” said Cohen. “Reducing material weight, transportation complexity and labor requirements makes projects like this far more achievable.” 

Renewable energy driving economic opportunity 

For LUTW, the project represents more than rural electrification; it is a long-term investment in local economic sustainability and a blueprint for other similar projects in the Peruvian Amazon. 

By pairing renewable energy infrastructure with workforce training and community-led development, the organization aims to create systems that continue generating economic opportunity long after installation crews leave. 

The collaboration also demonstrates how commercial solar technologies can support humanitarian and community development efforts in some of the world’s most challenging environments. 

“When I visited the first project in Huarcaya, I saw firsthand what access to electricity can mean for a community,” said Juan Carlos Fuentes, director of international business at S-5! “It was more than solar on a roof. It reinforced that we are not just providing products; we are delivering practical solutions that help make clean energy more accessible where it is needed most. With the Soledad project, that impact extends even further — supporting local production, creating economic opportunity and helping strengthen the community for the long term.” 

As demand for resilient off-grid solar solutions continues to grow globally, projects like Soledad illustrate the role innovative mounting systems can play in expanding renewable energy access while reducing installation costs and complexity.  

To learn more about LUTW and how your organization can become a corporate partner in helping bring power to remote, off-grid communities, visit www.lutw.org. 

“On Tour With S-5!” expands access to rooftop education across U.S. markets.

S-5! is launching a 14-stop national roadshow in response to the growing need for more accessible, hands-on training that connects contractors and installers directly with manufacturers. The “On Tour With S-5!” initiative kicks off in June in Florida, with events continuing throughout the U.S. in July and August, bringing practical product demonstrations, technical discussions and networking directly to contractors, EPCs, installers and other industry professionals.

The roadshow brings together industry-leading manufacturers, S-5!, Mission Solar, SnapNrack Solar Mounting Solutions and EZ Solar Products to provide practical education outside the traditional trade show setting, offering field professionals direct access to manufacturers and application-specific training.

The tour will focus largely on commercial solar attachment and rooftop project considerations, while also addressing regional needs. In the Northeast markets, for example, events will include snow retention education and solutions for contractors working in snow-prone environments. Events will cover multiple roofing applications and will include discussions around current industry topics, including Domestic Content compliance in 2026, FEOC guidance and project considerations.

“This tour matters because it brings education, live demos and industry partners directly to our customers,” said Jessica Haddock, director of marketing at S-5! “It helps us reach more contractors, create stronger engagement and give attendees a hands-on experience they can take back to the jobsite. When you bring education directly into local markets, you create more than a training opportunity — you build lasting relationships.”

Each stop is structured as a training event, with approximately four hours of instruction, live product demonstrations, attendee giveaways and opportunities for contractors, installers and participating manufacturers to connect in an informal setting.

“We like to say we are on tour with the band, and the band is all of our partners together,” said Haddock. “By bringing leading manufacturers into one common space, we can provide comprehensive education, show contractors what solutions are available and build relationships, trust and business for everyone involved.”

“S-5! has always been at the forefront of innovation, and that goes beyond our products — it is also how we do business,” said Haddock. “Trade shows are valuable, but not everyone can attend trade shows, especially at the installer level. This allows us to meet contractors where they are and provide personal, one-on-one training.”

Additional information, including tour dates and registration details, is available at: ontour.s-5.com.

About S-5!

Since 1992, S-5! has been the leading authority on metal roof attachment solutions. Its zero-penetration clamps, along with brackets, support a variety of roof-mounted applications on most metal roof types while maintaining roof integrity and warranties. Building on that legacy, S-5! has now expanded its expertise with best-in-class single-ply membrane roof solutions. With installations on more than 3 million metal roofs worldwide, S-5! delivers trusted strength, longevity and performance with attachments designed to last the life of the roof — backed by an industry-leading manufacturer warranty unmatched in the industry. For more information, visit ontour.s-5.com.

Beginning June 1 and running through July 31, 2026, roofing contractors are invited to enter their snow retention projects in the contest to win cash prizes totaling $6,000.

Rocky Mountain Snow Guards, Inc. and S-5!®, leaders of rooftop attachment solutions, have joined together to sponsor the third year of the nationwide “Show Us Our Snow Guards Contest.” Beginning June 1 and running through July 31, 2026, roofing contractors are invited to enter their snow retention projects in the contest to win cash prizes totaling $6,000.

Four prize categories are open for entries of projects completed within the past five years, each with a cash prize of $1,500:

• Outstanding Residential Rocky Mountain Snow Guards’ Snow Guards Project
• Outstanding Residential S-5! ColorGard® 2.0 Project
• Outstanding Commercial Rocky Mountain Snow Guards’ Snow Guards Project
• Outstanding Commercial S-5! ColorGard® 2.0 Project

“Every year this contest shines a spotlight on more stunning projects,” says Brian Cross, sales and operations/partner with Rocky Mountain Snow Guards, Inc. “We’ve been an S-5! distributor for years and have further partnered with them by offering baseplates for single ply applications. We’re excited to unite with them on this contest. By including S-5! in the ‘Show Us Our Snow Guards Contest’ we are opening up the possibilities for even more roofing contractors to enter their outstanding projects.”

There is no fee to enter the contest. Simply download, complete and email the Contest Entry Form along with a minimum of three high-resolution pictures of a project featuring Rocky Mountain Snow Guards or S-5! ColorGard 2.0 products installed within the last five years. Roofing contractors may enter as many of their projects as they like, but must fill out a separate form for each entry. 

Projects will be judged based on usage of products in each category, quality of photography supplied with entries, overall skills displayed in installation of the product(s) and completeness of entry submission.

“We’re eager to see how our ColorGard 2.0 system is being skillfully installed on metal roofs across the country!” says Jessica Haddock, director of marketing at S-5!  “Along with the cash prizes, we plan to truly highlight the winners with great publicity for their companies and projects!”

Beginning June 1st, roofing contractors may go to  https://www.rockymountainsnowguards.com/show-us-snow-guards-contest to download the entry form and rules for the contest. Final date to enter is July 31, 2026. Winners will be announced on August 13, 2026.

About Rocky Mountain Snow Guards

Rocky Mountain Snow Guards, Inc. manufactures snow guards and fence-style snow retention systems designed to protect people and property. The company offers free layouts and quotes for product placement. Metal products are warrantied for 50 years. Proud Corporate Partner of Freedom Service Dogs and founder of National Snow Guards Safety Month. For details visit www.rockymountainsnowguards.com or call 1-877-414-7606.

About S-5!

Founded by a renowned metal roof expert, S-5! has been the leading authority on metal roof attachment solutions since 1992. S-5!’s zero-penetration clamps and lifetime brackets attach virtually anything to most metal roof types, while maintaining roof integrity and warranties. S-5! solutions are engineered for a variety of roof-mounted applications and are now installed on more than three million roofs worldwide, providing strength and longevity never before seen. For more information, visit www.s-5.com. 

By Ali Turner, S-5! 

Today’s industry-leading clamps are designed to mechanically attach to standing seam metal roofs, allowing you to achieve a secure, code-compliant attachment that maintains the roof's integrity. 

Planning to set up Starlink at home? Here at S-5!, we know that one of the most important factors is where you place the dish. A higher mounting point, often on the roof, usually gives the equipment a more open view of the sky, which can help improve signal quality and support a steadier internet connection. 

In fact, Starlink itself recommends installing the dish in an elevated, permanent location, such as a roof, to achieve the best performance and long-term reliability. But here’s what many homeowners overlook: how you mount the dish is just as important as where you install it.

For decades, people have relied on outdated mounting solutions like concrete blocks and ballasted systems for satellite dishes and other rooftop accessories. While these methods may seem simple, they directly conflict with Starlink’s best practices and can create serious problems for your roof and your connection. 

Thankfully, there’s a better way. A modern way. The Right Way!® 

What Starlink recommends and why it matters 

Before choosing a mounting method, it’s important to understand what Starlink recommends for the best performance: 

• A clear, unobstructed view of the sky is critical — even small obstructions cause interruptions. 
• Permanent mounting is recommended for long-term reliability and cable protection. 
• Install as close to vertical as possible for optimal signal tracking. 
• Protect cables from damage and moisture during and after installation. 

Homeowners using ballast and concrete block systems often find it harder to follow these best practices. 

The problem with concrete blocks and ballasts 

Loose concrete blocks rely on weight rather than engineering. Over time, they can shift, especially in wind events or storms, impacting alignment and signal quality. 

Ballasted systems limit placement flexibility and often result in suboptimal positioning, leading to dropped connections. Concrete blocks trap moisture, leading to rust and potential degradation of metal roof panels over time. This not only shortens your roof’s lifespan, but it can also void your warranty. 

Concrete blocks can cause damage to metal roofs, inducing corrosion. 

Starlink emphasizes protecting cables from bending, moisture and damage. Ballasted setups often lead to messy cable runs across the roof, increasing the risk of wear and tear, water exposure and improper routing. And on top of all that (no pun intended), dragging concrete blocks onto your roof is labor-intensive, risky and completely unnecessary with today’s modern mounting solutions. 

What’s the solution? 

A purpose-built mounting system provides a reliable way to attach equipment like Starlink directly to metal roofs without the drawbacks of outdated, unsafe methods. 

Instead of relying on weight or improvised setups, it uses engineered attachment points to secure your system while helping to protect the integrity of your roof. That shift alone makes a big difference, especially when you’re trying to get the most out of a high-performance system like Starlink. 

One of the biggest advantages is the ability to install your dish exactly where it performs best. Rather than being limited by where you can place heavy blocks or temporary mounts, you can fine-tune placement to maximize signal quality and minimize interruptions. 

Attachment without compromise

A common misconception is that effective roof-mounted systems must rely on attachments that penetrate the roof panels to provide secure attachment. In reality, today’s industry-leading clamps are designed to mechanically attach to standing seam metal roofs, allowing you to achieve a secure, code-compliant attachment that maintains the roof's integrity. For exposed-fastened roofs, utility mounting systems can achieve a secure attachment to the panel ribs and prevent water intrusion by utilizing tabs with factory-applied EPDM sealant. 

Non-penetrating clamps attach utility mounting systems without voiding the roof manufacturer’s warranty. 

Plus, with a utility mounting system designed specifically for rooftop accessories, cable routing becomes much cleaner and safer, avoiding sharp bends, tension and unnecessary opportunities for degradation. Installation itself is faster and more straightforward, without the need to haul heavy materials or rely on trial-and-error positioning. 

Ideas to hold on to 

Starlink is only as effective as the quality of its installation. Temporary methods like ballast can limit placement, increase risks to the roof and lead to inconsistent performance. A purpose-built mounting approach, on the other hand, supports a secure, elevated and properly aligned installation, exactly as the system is designed to function. 

And finally, it’s not only easier to do it The Right Way!® — it’s almost much lower-cost! 

If you’re serious about getting the most out of your Starlink connection, upgrading your mounting method isn’t optional. It’s essential.

By Jenny Yu.  

S-5! introduces their latest solar attachment product to the general construction market. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo (IRE), Karen Edwards spoke with Todd Lindstrom, product specialist at S-5!, about the company’s new product, the Facet™ Mount and how this development broadens the company’s reach across the roofing landscape. 

“Facet, or Facet Mount, brings us into the flat roof category, where traditionally S-5! has been a metal roofing attachment company,” Todd said. As a company that specializes in attachments and methodologies for working on metal roofs, the facet opens the door for more contractors to incorporate S-5! products into their toolboxes. “It's actually a product that's been in the general solar construction space since 2008, but what we've decided to do is bring it out as a general construction product.” 

By bringing the facet to the general construction market, S-5! aims to help contractors in other trades, such as HVAC and electric, perform their services to a roofer’s satisfaction. “This is a great solution done with the roofing material manufacturer and the roofer in mind,” Todd shared, noting that the attachment provider collaborated with roofing partners in the development stages. “We made sure they liked how it went in, why it went in; it gave them the room to maneuver, the room to be confident that their warranty would stand up as a result of the work they were doing.” This collaboration extended to roofing manufacturers, incorporating their feedback to create a product that fits the needs of all parties involved in a roofing project.  

Todd also explained the origin of the product for what was then known as the Staples Center in Los Angeles, now named Crypto.com Arena, home of the Los Angeles Lakers. “It was the first stadium where solar was incorporated on the roof. They had a brand-new roof, and at that time, the solar industry had no known developed products for the interface,” Todd said. “You had to sit eight or nine inches off the deck to create the right amount of clearance for whatever you're waterproofing. A practical product didn't exist, so it was invented for that site.” 

Staples Center was S-5!’s first install of the Facet Mount, now 18 years active. “So, it's a new product, but it's not new,” Todd stated. In pioneering this product and now expanding its reach to more general contractors throughout the trades, S-5! is confident the Facet can fulfill any job it meets. “It's been around a while, with hundreds of thousands of units deployed both here and in Europe, so we're quite familiar with anything that could be thrown at us.” 

Watch the interview to learn more about S-5!’s roof attachment innovations for metal roofing, solar and beyond!

By Ali Turner, S-5! 

R-panels are a reliable, budget-friendly metal roofing choice — but how you attach accessories matters.

R-panel is a durable and economical metal roofing profile commonly installed on commercial facilities, metal buildings, agricultural structures and barndominiums. However, as many roofing contractors have found when troubleshooting leaks or panel distortion due to thermal movement, the real challenge lies beyond the panel itself — it’s in the attachment method. Incorrect fastening approaches or incompatible substrates can limit natural expansion and contraction, jeopardize weathertightness and ultimately turn an otherwise dependable roofing system into a source of problems. 

If R-panels are part of your offering, understanding the fastening technology is not optional — it’s a must. Getting it right helps protect your margins and boost your credibility. 

This blog will explain: 

• What an R-panel roof is 
• Why watertightness testing matters 
• How engineered attachment systems help reduce risk, prevent callbacks and ensure long-term roof performance 

What is an R-panel roof? 

A commercial building with an R-Panel metal roof, featuring solar panels mounted directly to the ribs using engineered brackets and a rail-less solar mounting system. 

An R-panel is an exposed-fastened metal panel commonly used for roof and wall applications on commercial, industrial and agricultural buildings. The “R” stands for “ribbed” since the inception of the term. And the ribs are trapezoidal in cross-sectional shape. A later variant is the “PBR,” which stands for “purlin-bearing rib.” 

“R-panels are very different from standing seam or corrugated systems and serve a distinct market, particularly in the Southwest U.S.,” explained Lane Haddock, S-5! application engineer. “If a homeowner wants a reliable metal roof but doesn’t have the budget for a standing seam system, an R-panel is often the practical choice. It delivers durability and performance without the higher price point.” 

Key features of R-panels: 

• Ribbed profile for strength and water shedding 
• Raised major ribs and smaller intermediate ribs for rigidity 
• Exposed-fastened system for direct attachment to the structure 

“They’re also ideal for agricultural use, where performance often matters more than aesthetics,” Haddock added. “The goal is installing a roof that’s durable, dependable and built to last.” 

Reliable R-panel attachments: Engineered brackets tested for water intrusion 

Today’s roofing contractors are more than installers — you’re consultants, problem-solvers and risk managers. Every roof penetration, whether for snow retention, solar mounting or rooftop utilities, introduces waterproofing risk. How those attachments are engineered and tested determines whether the roof performs for decades or generates costly callbacks. 

When roof penetrations are required on an exposed-fastened profile, such as an R-panel, the roof's long-term performance depends on how well each attachment resists water intrusion. Field-applied sealants can degrade, compress unevenly or fail over time, so engineered brackets with factory-applied sealant technology are critical. These sealants are designed to maintain consistent compression and performance, even as the roof undergoes thermal expansion and contraction. 

Engineered bracket with snow retention system securely installed on an R-panel metal roof, designed to reduce the risk of snow slides while maintaining roof integrity and performance. 

ASTM E2140 testing determines the resistance of an attachment to water penetration when subjected to 6 inches of static water pressure. Brackets that pass this rigorous standard are independently validated to maintain a secure, leak-resistant interface under conditions that closely replicate real-world roof exposure. This testing, conducted in a certified third-party lab, shows exactly which attachment systems can reliably help protect your roof against water intrusion over the long term. 

Brackets undergoing ASTM E2140 testing, demonstrating water resistance with a marked 6-inch water line to ensure reliable performance under simulated static water pressure conditions. 

The bottom line for roofing contractors 

R-panels are a reliable, budget-friendly metal roofing choice — but how you attach accessories matters. Whether you’re installing snow guards, solar panels or utilities, the guidance is clear: 

• Choose engineered attachment systems designed for metal roof profiles and backed by testing and documentation. 
• Do not use products that compromise the roof’s weatherproofing. Use brackets and fasteners with factory-applied, integrated sealant technology to help prevent water from penetrating the panel surface. 
• Choose metal roof attachments with industry-leading lifetime warranties to ensure long-term performance, reliability and peace of mind for your roof system. 

When a fastening strategy is engineered rather than improvised, you’re not just installing accessories. You’re protecting your reputation, minimizing liability and delivering a roof system built for long-term performance. 

Questions? Reach out to support@s-5.com for help with your R-panel metal roofing project! 

Texas manufacturing facility recognized for continued commitment to safety excellence.

S-5!, the industry leader in metal roof attachment solutions, has earned the Metal Building Manufacturers Association Safety Award for the fifth time, recognizing the company’s exceptional workplace safety performance and zero recordable incidents at its Iowa Park, Texas, manufacturing facility during the calendar year 2025.

Each year, MBMA recognizes member companies that demonstrate exceptional commitment to safety in the workplace over the past calendar year. The 2025 award was presented during the combined Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA) Conference and MBMA Spring Association Meeting in Colorado Springs, Colorado, held April 22-24, 2026. Rob Haddock, CEO and founder of S-5!, together with Shawn Haddock, vice president of operations at S-5!, accepted the honor on behalf of their entire team.

The achievement reflects ongoing safety training, proactive hazard identification and a team-wide commitment to maintaining a clean, compliant and accountable manufacturing environment.

“This recognition is meaningful because it reflects what happens in our facility every day: employees looking out for one another, following disciplined processes and taking ownership of safety,” said Shawn Haddock. “We are especially grateful to Randy Crumpton, our safety manager, whose leadership has helped strengthen a safety-first culture through training, clear policies and proactive hazard prevention.”

Through its annual Safety Awards, MBMA highlights member companies that make safe operations a consistent business priority and model responsible manufacturing practices across the metal building industry. “A year with zero recordable incidents requires more than compliance; it reflects everyday attention, communication and accountability across the organization,” said Tony Bouquot, MBMA general manager. “S-5!’s continued performance at its Iowa Park facility demonstrates the kind of safety leadership we are proud to recognize among MBMA members.”

At S-5!’s ISO 9001: 2015-certified Iowa Park manufacturing facility, advanced automation and equipment support both product quality and a disciplined operating environment. Following a 20,000+ square foot expansion that doubled production capacity, the team continues to pair growth with safety practices, training and facility improvements that support employees, customers and ongoing manufacturing operations.

About S-5! 

Founded by a renowned metal roof expert, S-5! has been the leading authority on metal roof attachment solutions since 1992. S-5!’s zero-penetration clamps and lifetime brackets attach virtually anything to most metal roof types, while maintaining roof integrity and warranties. S-5! solutions are engineered for a variety of roof-mounted applications and are now installed on more than 3 million roofs worldwide, including 10+ gigawatts of roof-mounted solar, providing strength and longevity never before seen. For more information, visit www.s-5.com.

By Fiona Maguire-O'Shea, S-5! 

A conversation with Ricardo Barroso, head of engineering at S-5! 

As solar applications continue to expand across carports, canopies and ground mount structures, greater attention is being placed on solar mounting and attachment systems. From retail carports and gas stations to large-scale ground mount installations, contractors need corrosion-resistant, non-penetrating solutions that remain compatible with structural steel and deliver reliable, long-term performance in demanding environments. 

Ricardo Barroso, head of engineering at S-5!, has spent years helping guide the development of solutions designed specifically for these evolving needs. In this conversation, he shares how the S-5-CPTM clamp for carports came to market, what differentiates it and where he sees the industry heading next. 

Built in response to real-world demand 

The story of the CP clamp begins not in a lab, but in the field. 

“We were seeing an increase in solar over carports — at convenience stores, office buildings, gas stations and shopping centers — many in regions with demanding environmental conditions,” Ricardo says. “We knew we could bring meaningful savings and performance improvements to those projects.” 

In high-wind regions such as Florida, engineered structural performance is non-negotiable. Many of these carport structures rely on Cee or Zee purlins, and attaching solar modules to those members has historically required complexities. “One effective method for those structures is a racking system,” Ricardo explains. “But traditional approaches created challenges that made it clear a better solution was needed.” 

Contractors typically relied on two primary methods: perforating the purlin with screws or fastening substructures with bolts and nuts. Both approaches introduced concerns. “Perforation with screws was common. The other option was using bolts and nuts to secure the solar system,” he says. “Both presented long-term corrosion risks, escalated costs and potential corrosion issues. Material compatibility is crucial in these environments.” 

The breakthrough came after S-5!’s international team brought forward several project opportunities, including gas station canopy applications. “They came to us with real projects that required a purpose-built solution,” Ricardo recalls. “At that point, it was clear the market didn’t need a small improvement — it needed something designed specifically for the application.” 

The result was a non-penetrating clamp engineered to fit Cee and Zee purlins while improving installation speed and long-term durability. “The S-5-CP clamp does not perforate the purlin,” he emphasizes. “Instead of fastening through the steel, the clamp secures to the purlin using S-5!’s proprietary setscrews, which are engineered for compatibility with the base material and designed to resist corrosion over the life of the structure.”

Designing for strength, compatibility and longevity 

From an engineering standpoint, defining the dimensional range of commonly used Cee purlins was foundational. “There is a wide variation in purlin dimensions across markets,” Ricardo explains. “One of the most important inputs was understanding the most common profiles so we could design a product that would fit the majority of applications.” 

Rather than tailoring the product to niche variations, the team focused on developing a solution that addresses the most prevalent structural configurations without sacrificing strength and while streamlining installation. 

High wind resistance was also central to the design brief. “We needed a solution suitable for high-velocity wind zones,” he says. “Reliability in those environments was critical.” 

But performance wasn’t the only consideration. Aesthetic consistency and cable management were also part of the equation. “When you’re talking about direct attachment on carports, you don’t want wires hanging randomly.” Ricardo notes. “With the CP clamp, we developed a complete environment solution that includes wire management and accessories.” 

Water management was another factor in certain applications. “In many cases, reducing water intrusion under the carports is important, such as in the Port of Bilbao in Spain, where perishable food has been unloaded from cargo ships and loaded on trucks for local distribution in the North of Spain. We incorporated features to address that as well.” 

As with other S-5! product launches, the engineering team surveyed our global sales team to gather market intelligence about regional applications and structural trends. “That input helps us design for real-world conditions. It is what we call ‘listening to the voice of our customers and the industry,’” he says. 

More than a clamp 

While the clamp itself solves a specific attachment challenge, Ricardo believes the broader value lies in the complete system and support behind it. “What makes it different is not just the clamp,” he says. “It’s the full engineering package, which easily incorporates either traditional rail systems or the S-5! PVKIT.” 

The product is engineered and tested to meet rigorous standards, including Florida Product Approval for the clamp and UL 2703 compliance for the PVKIT system. 

Equally important, Ricardo says, is the company’s engineering support. “We have application engineers who answer questions around the clock and go to the field to train and support installations. Customers value that support — it often helps win projects.” 

Expanding beyond the original vision 

Although initially developed for carports and canopies, the CP clamp has proven adaptable. “When we developed it, the focus was carports and canopies,” Ricardo says. “Ground mount was not initially in sight. Now we’re seeing strong opportunities there.” 

A recent ground mount solar farm in the South used more than 20,000 CP clamps — a signal that the product’s applicability extends beyond its original intent. Any contractor working in solar carports, canopies or compatible ground mount structures can benefit. 

Where does it create the greatest impact? 

“Speed and labor efficiency matter, of course,” Ricardo says. “But the real impact is long-term reliability.” 

He explains that the value goes beyond faster installation. “When you eliminate penetration, address material compatibility and engineer for corrosion resistance, you’re protecting the structure for its entire service life. That’s where owners see the real return — in durability and performance that doesn’t degrade over time. 

“It’s about compatibility and holding strength that lasts for the lifetime of the structure. No maintenance. No corrosion.” 

Shifting expectations in solar mounting 

Ricardo sees the CP clamp as part of a broader industry shift. “The main shift is toward reliability,” he says. “The industry is demanding products that don’t degrade in performance over time.” 

As project owners increasingly evaluate systems based on multi-decade performance, attachment systems must align with that expectation. S-5! is continuing to pursue additional certifications, including submission for International Code Council (ICC) listing, further reinforcing its commitment to engineering rigor and compliance. 

Looking ahead, Ricardo does not expect major changes in the way steel support structures are built. “Carports, canopies and many ground mount systems use structural forms that have been standard for a long time,” he explains. “The opportunity is in improving the attachment, simplifying installation and enhancing long-term reliability.” 

For S-5!, that means continued focus on practical innovation. “We’re always looking at what we can do better,” Ricardo says. “It’s about improving the customer experience and finding better ways to serve evolving applications.” 

Bottom line 

As solar deployment accelerates across diverse project types and geographies, solutions like the CP clamp underscore a simple yet powerful principle: when small components are engineered with precision and purpose, they can make a lasting impact on the performance and longevity of the entire system. 

By Ali Turner, S-5! 

This course explores how the PVKIT rail-less solar mounting solution is uniquely suited for snow-prone regions.

Designing solar for snow-heavy regions comes with a unique set of challenges. From increased structural loads to installation complexities on metal roofs, engineers and installers must account for conditions that can significantly impact system performance and longevity. 

That’s why we’re excited to introduce a new course on S-5-University — our FREE online learning platform: PVKIT® in Snow Country. 

Led by Michal Sida, application engineer for the U.S. and Canada at S-5!®, this course dives into smarter, more efficient ways to design solar mounting systems for harsh winter environments. 

Meet the presenter 

Sida brings deep technical expertise to the conversation. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava and began his S-5! career in Research and Development, specializing in the testing of snow retention systems. 

Today, Sida specializes in: 

• Engineering calculations 
• System design 
• Technical support for solar mounting and snow retention 

What you’ll learn 

This course explores how the PVKIT rail-less solar mounting solution is uniquely suited for snow-prone regions. 

You’ll learn how a rail-less approach can: 

• Reduce the overall system weight on the roof 
• Decrease rotational forces on attachments 
• Distribute loads more evenly across the roof structure 
• Maximize usable roof space 

In addition, the course highlights how the PVKIT can help: 

• Lower material and installation costs 
• Simplify transportation and on-site handling 
• Improve installation efficiency 
• Make solar more practical and effective in harsh winter climates 

Learn more with S-5-University 

S-5-University is a free, on-demand online training platform built specifically for roofing contractors and industry professionals who want to stay ahead in a competitive market. 

Developed by the industry leader in metal roof attachment solutions, S-5-University delivers real-world, contractor-focused education you can immediately apply on the job. Unlike generic training programs, every course is designed by roofing experts to help you work more efficiently, safely and profitably. 

With S-5-University, you can: 

• Learn at your own pace — anytime, anywhere 
• Access in-depth courses, expert-led webinars and technical training 
• Gain practical skills with step-by-step demonstrations and troubleshooting tips 
• Earn certificates to showcase your expertise 
• Strengthen your credibility with clients and stand out in competitive bids 

The platform covers a wide range of topics, including: 

• Metal roof attachment systems 
• Snow retention solutions 
• Solar mounting systems like PVKIT 
• And much more! 

Best of all, it’s 100% free — no subscriptions, no hidden fees, just valuable education from the most trusted name in the industry. 

Explore all available courses: https://www.s-5-university.com/courses?utm_campaign=S-5-University&utm_source=RoofersCoffeeShop&utm_medium=PVKIT%20in%20Snow%20Country%20Webinar