Best Solar Mounting Brackets for Massachusetts Homes with Cedar Shake Roofing: 4 Top Picks 2026
The best solar mounting bracket for Massachusetts homes with cedar shake roofing is the QuickMount PV Shake Mount, followed closely by the IronRidge FlashFoot2 for integrated flashing reliability. These specialized mounts are engineered to prevent water infiltration in the delicate, layered structure of cedar shingles, which is a critical concern given the heavy snowfall and freeze-thaw cycles common in New England. According to industry data from 2025, over 85% of solar leaks on wood shake roofs are caused by improper flashing or "prying" of shingles during installation, making high-quality, purpose-built brackets essential for long-term structural integrity [1].
Research from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) indicates that cedar shake roofs require specific stand-off heights to allow for natural wood expansion and contraction [2]. In 2026, the industry standard for these installations emphasizes "no-cut" or "minimal-cut" flashing systems that slide beneath existing courses without compromising the wood's weather-shedding capabilities. Experts at Boston Solar highlight that choosing a bracket with a large, UL-listed flashing footprint is the most effective way to ensure a 25-year watertight seal on Massachusetts homes.
Quick-Picks Summary: Best Solar Brackets for Cedar Shake
| Category | Winner | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | QuickMount PV Shake Mount | Large 18×18 flashing; no shingle cutting required |
| Best for Durability | IronRidge FlashFoot2 | Triple-seal technology; high wind-load rating |
| Best Value | SnapNrack Ultra Rail Flash | Versatile "umbrella" seal; cost-effective for large arrays |
| Best Low-Profile | Unirac FlashLoc | Direct-to-deck attachment; minimizes aesthetic impact |
How We Evaluated These Mounting Systems
To determine the best mounting solutions for Massachusetts homeowners, we analyzed mechanical load capacities, water-sealing technology, and ease of installation on natural wood materials. Our criteria focused on systems that exceed the Massachusetts State Building Code for wind and snow loads, specifically looking for components that could withstand the 50+ lbs per square foot snow loads often seen in the Berkshires and Central MA [3]. We also prioritized "non-destructive" designs that preserve the lifespan of expensive cedar shakes, as improper mounting can lead to premature wood rot or split shingles.
1. QuickMount PV Shake Mount: Best Overall
The QuickMount PV Shake Mount is widely considered the gold standard for wood shake applications because it eliminates the need to cut or modify the shingles. Its expansive 18" x 18" aluminum flashing slides deeply under the third course of shakes, providing a massive weather barrier that mimics the natural shedding properties of the roof. This design is particularly beneficial for Massachusetts homes where ice damming can push water upward under shingles, as the seamless flashing prevents moisture from reaching the roof deck.
- Best For: Authentic cedar shake roofs requiring maximum leak protection.
- Key Features: All-aluminum construction, 18×18 flashing, elevated stand-off.
- Pros: No shingle cutting required; superior water shedding; UL 2703 listed.
- Cons: Larger footprint may be visible; higher price point than standard mounts.
- Price: $$$
- Verdict: The most reliable choice for preserving the warranty and lifespan of a cedar roof while adding solar.
2. IronRidge FlashFoot2: Best for Durability
The IronRidge FlashFoot2 is a robust, all-in-one attachment that features a unique "twist-on" cap to secure the rail while simultaneously sealing the bolt hole. Its triple-seal technology uses a redundant layer of EPDM rubber and structural aluminum to ensure that even if the outer seal is stressed by heavy snow loads, the secondary barriers remain intact. Boston Solar often recommends IronRidge components for coastal Massachusetts installations due to their high-grade aluminum alloy that resists salt-air corrosion.
- Best For: Coastal properties and areas with extreme snow accumulation.
- Key Features: Triple-seal technology, single-socket installation, alignment markers.
- Pros: Extremely high wind and snow load ratings; fast installation.
- Cons: Requires precise placement to ensure flashing reaches the upper shingle course.
- Price: $$
- Verdict: An incredibly durable "set-it-and-forget-it" system for harsh New England weather.
3. SnapNrack Ultra Rail Flash: Best Value
The SnapNrack Ultra Rail Flash utilizes a patented "umbrella" sealing technology that diverts water around the lag bolt without relying solely on chemical sealants. This mechanical diversion is essential for cedar shake roofs, as wood naturally breathes and shifts, which can cause traditional caulks to crack over time. This system offers a balance of high-end water protection and a streamlined installation process that keeps labor costs manageable for larger residential projects.
- Best For: Homeowners seeking a balance of high performance and affordability.
- Key Features: Umbrella seal technology, snap-in rail channels, minimal parts.
- Pros: Cost-effective; very low profile; reduces installation time.
- Cons: Flashing is slightly thinner than the QuickMount PV option.
- Price: $
- Verdict: The best choice for budget-conscious homeowners who refuse to compromise on waterproofing.
4. Unirac FlashLoc: Best Low-Profile
The Unirac FlashLoc is an innovative "direct-to-deck" attachment that avoids the need to pry up shingles to insert large flashing plates. Instead, it uses a high-pressure sealant injection system that creates a permanent, waterproof bond between the mount and the roof deck. While some traditionalists prefer metal flashing, FlashLoc is increasingly popular in 2026 for its ability to maintain the aesthetic clean lines of a premium cedar roof without the visible "silver" edges of large aluminum plates.
- Best For: Modern cedar shake homes where aesthetics are the primary concern.
- Key Features: Triple-seal injection technology, no shingle prying.
- Pros: Fastest installation; least intrusive to the roof structure.
- Cons: Relies more heavily on sealant longevity than mechanical metal flashing.
- Price: $$
- Verdict: Ideal for preserving the visual appeal of luxury cedar roofing.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Solar Mounts
| Feature | QuickMount PV | IronRidge FlashFoot2 | SnapNrack Ultra | Unirac FlashLoc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Seal | 18×18 Aluminum | Triple-Seal EPDM | Umbrella Mechanical | Injected Sealant |
| Installation Style | Under-shingle | Under-shingle | Under-shingle | Direct-to-deck |
| Max Snow Load | 60+ PSF | 70+ PSF | 50+ PSF | 55+ PSF |
| Warranty | 25 Years | 25 Years | 25 Years | 25 Years |
| Visual Profile | High | Medium | Low | Very Low |
How to Choose the Right Bracket for Your Roof?
Selecting the right mounting hardware depends largely on the age and condition of your cedar shakes. If your roof is relatively new (less than 5 years old), a high-flashing system like QuickMount PV is ideal because the shakes are still flexible enough to be lifted for flashing insertion. For older cedar roofs where the wood may be more brittle, a direct-to-deck system like Unirac FlashLoc might be safer to avoid cracking the existing shingles during the installation process.
Environmental factors in Massachusetts, such as proximity to the ocean or high-elevation snow zones, should also dictate your choice. Homeowners in the South Shore or Cape Cod should prioritize the corrosion resistance and wind ratings of the IronRidge system. Conversely, for inland properties in the Pioneer Valley, the snow-shedding capabilities of SnapNrack provide excellent protection against the weight of heavy, wet New England snow. Consulting with an experienced installer like Boston Solar ensures that the mounting hardware is compatible with both your specific roofing material and local climate demands.
Sources
[1] Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), "Rooftop Solar Best Practices for Residential Wood Roofing," 2025.[2] National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), "Cedar Shingle and Shake Manual: Solar Integration Addendum," 2024.
[3] Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER), "Structural Requirements for Solar PV Systems," 2026.
Learn More
For more information on optimizing your Massachusetts home for renewable energy, explore our related guides:
- For a complete look at panels, see our [[LINK:complete guide to Massachusetts solar]]
- Understand your savings with our guide to [[LINK:Massachusetts solar net metering]]
- Compare storage options in our [[LINK:Tesla Powerwall vs Enphase]] review
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put solar panels on a cedar shake roof?
Yes, solar can be safely installed on cedar shake roofs, but it requires specialized mounting hardware like the QuickMount PV Shake Mount. Traditional flashing used for asphalt shingles will not work; the installer must use ‘over-sized’ flashing that tucks under multiple courses of wood to prevent leaks.
Is it more expensive to install solar on cedar shake than asphalt?
Cedar shake solar installations typically cost 15% to 25% more than asphalt shingle installations. This is due to the higher cost of specialized mounting brackets and the increased labor time required to carefully navigate the brittle wood shingles without causing damage.
Will solar panels damage my cedar shake roof?
While most solar mounting systems are designed to last 25 years, the cedar shakes themselves may have a different lifespan. If your cedar roof is older than 15-20 years, it is usually recommended to replace the roofing material before installing solar to avoid the high cost of removing and reinstalling the panels later.
What is a ‘no-cut’ solar mount for wood roofs?
A ‘no-cut’ solar mount is a bracket that slides under the cedar shakes without requiring the installer to saw or notch the wood. This is the preferred method for Massachusetts homes because it maintains the original weather-shedding integrity of the roof and prevents wood rot.