Tailored Racking Systems for Every Rooftop
At Universal Renewables, we offer a range of advanced solar mounting solutions designed to maximize energy efficiency and adapt to any setting.
Compare the systems
| System | Panel orientation | Height | Tilt | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| W System | Portrait | 3–7 ft | 1–15 degrees | Most canopy configurations; tilting and adjusting around rooftop obstructions |
| Elevated Flush Mount System | Landscape | 3–7 ft | 1–3 degrees | Building over larger obstructions such as ductwork and plumbing vents |
| Flush Mount System | Landscape | Up to 1–2 ft | 1–3 degrees | Height-limited projects, penthouse roofs and buildings in historic areas |
| High Tilt System | Portrait | Up to 20 ft | 15–70 degrees | Limited-space rooftops and installation near a penthouse wall |
W System
Universal's powerhouse system is the one that started it all. Similar to the Elevated Flush Mount in terms of height, it offers more freedom to tilt and adjust around rooftop obstructions.
The W system is the most versatile option available for all rooftop solar canopy configurations on the market.
| Orientation | Portrait |
|---|---|
| Height, low side | 3–7 ft |
| Tilt | 1–15 degrees |
Projects using the W System: 20 M Street (153 kW), 1441 Rhode Island Ave. (136 kW), 3801 Connecticut Ave. (297.3 kW), Burr (725.7 kW), Fitch & G St. (700 kW), Hotel DC (180.2 kW), Kenmore (185 kW), Locke Hall (137.76 kW), Logan Station (155 kW), Randolph Towers (160 kW), Washington Square (522 kW), 1909 – Aurora Energy (125 kW), 925 (135 kW)
Elevated Flush Mount System
The Elevated Flush Mount is similar to the Flush Mount but includes additional knee bracing to support greater height.
This design is advantageous for building over larger roof obstructions such as ductwork and plumbing vents. It maximizes solar density on highly obstructed roofs.
| Orientation | Landscape |
|---|---|
| Height, low side | 3–7 ft |
| Tilt | 1–3 degrees |
Projects using the Elevated Flush Mount System: Burr (725.7 kW), Lafayette (385 kW), Cityline – Solar Solutions and HESP (535 kW), 616 (197 kW), 925 (135 kW), GRP (129 kW)
Flush Mount System
Flush mount is an excellent choice for projects with height limitations and minimal large roof obstructions.
This system is ideal for penthouse roofs and buildings in historic areas where maintaining a low profile is important.
| Orientation | Landscape |
|---|---|
| Height, low side | Up to 1–2 ft |
| Tilt | 1–3 degrees |
Projects using the Flush Mount System: 20 M Street (153 kW), Hotel DC (180.2 kW), Lafayette (385 kW), Washington Square (522 kW), 1909 – Aurora Energy (125 kW)
High Tilt System
The High Tilt System is all about efficiency and power production. Designed for limited-space rooftops that need a vertical boost, it improves sun exposure, snow shedding, and airflow.
The Universal companies are dedicated to the manufacture, sales, distribution and installation of elevated racking solutions.
| Orientation | Portrait |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 20 ft |
| Tilt | 15–70 degrees |
Projects using the High Tilt System: Locke Hall (137.76 kW), Washington Square (522 kW), 1909 – Aurora Energy (125 kW)
Choosing a system
Not sure which fits? Discuss your project and our engineers will recommend one.
Which racking system is best for a rooftop crowded with HVAC equipment?
The W System and the Elevated Flush Mount System. Both raise the array 3–7 ft on the low side so panels span HVAC units, ductwork and vents. The W System tilts 1–15 degrees and adjusts around obstructions; the Elevated Flush Mount adds knee bracing and maximizes solar density at a 1–3 degree tilt.
Which system suits buildings with height limits or in historic areas?
The Flush Mount System. It sits up to 1–2 ft above the roof on the low side at a 1–3 degree tilt, keeping a low profile on penthouse roofs and buildings in historic areas.
How high can a Universal Renewables solar canopy be built?
Up to 20 ft with the High Tilt System, which tilts panels 15–70 degrees. The W System and Elevated Flush Mount System stand 3–7 ft on the low side, and the Flush Mount System up to 1–2 ft.
Where are the racking systems manufactured?
In the USA, by sister company Universal Aluminum Products, with 100% domestic content and 80% recycled industrial aluminum waste.
Explore how our custom solar mounting solutions can transform your energy efficiency
Whether you’re looking to optimize rooftop space, require a high-tilt angle for increased sun exposure, or need a customized flush mount, our solutions provide durability, reliability, and peak performance.
Enhanced energy efficiency
Each of our mounting solutions is designed to optimize panel positioning, maximizing sunlight exposure and increasing energy production.
Durable, weather-resistant
Built from high-quality materials, our mounting solutions are engineered to withstand a range of environmental conditions.
Aesthetic flexibility for any space
Enjoy clean, modern designs that maintain the aesthetic appeal of your property while delivering top-notch functionality.