Solar panel cleaning
Robotic solar cleaning for large commercial rooftops
Robotic solar panel cleaning for large rooftop systems on factories, warehouses, distribution centres, office buildings and shopping centres.
On a roof, the roof comes first: how we get onto it, what it can carry and how people stay safe at height. For the general process, see the robotic solar panel cleaning overview.
What we assess before anything goes on the roof
Roof access
Internal stairs, roof hatches, external ladders or the need for hoisting or access equipment, and the route equipment takes through the building.
Load limits and condition
What the roof structure and sheeting can carry, confirmed by the owner, and whether there are fragile areas such as skylights or old sheeting.
Roof and array geometry
Roof pitch, array layout, row gaps, edges, parapets and obstructions — which decide whether robotic cleaning can be used at all.
Fall protection
Edge protection, anchor points, walkways and harness requirements for the roof, agreed under the site's work-at-height rules.
Working on an occupied building
Most commercial roofs sit above people at work or shopping. We agree access times, delivery and loading-bay use, security sign-in and any areas below the roof that need to be kept clear.
Water and runoff
If the confirmed cleaning method needs water, we need a supply point on or near the roof and to know where runoff goes — usually into the gutters and downpipes. Water use is confirmed after the equipment and site assessment.
As with any site, results depend on how dirty the panels are and local conditions, so we don't promise a set gain in output. Cleaning follows the module manufacturer's instructions.
Related roof work — only where relevant
Solar cleaning is quoted on its own. If you ask, or if the assessment turns up something worth raising, we can quote other roof work separately: blocked gutters and downpipes through industrial gutter cleaning, damaged or corroded sheeting through sheeting installation and repair, and access equipment through scaffolding and access solutions.
Frequently asked questions
Which rooftops is this service designed for?
Large commercial and industrial roofs — factories, warehouses, distribution centres, office blocks and shopping centres.
Can every rooftop array be cleaned with robots?
No. It depends on the array layout, gaps between rows, roof pitch and edges. If robotic cleaning isn't suitable for your roof, the assessment will say so.
Who confirms the roof can take the equipment?
The building owner, ideally with the roof's structural information or an engineer's input. We need the load limits and roof condition confirmed before any equipment goes up.
Can you work while the building is occupied?
Usually. We agree access times, routes through the building, loading bays and security arrangements with your facilities team.
Will you also quote for gutters or roof sheeting?
Only if you ask, or if the assessment shows something worth raising. Solar cleaning is quoted on its own; other roof work is optional and quoted separately.
Which robot or equipment do you use?
We share equipment details directly with plant owners and site teams during an enquiry, rather than publishing them. Ask us by phone on +27 16 366 3200 or email reception@corrosioncontrol.co.za and we'll take you through the equipment proposed for your site.
How long has the company been operating?
Makhaya Corrosion Control, previously M&S Corrosion Control, was founded in 1981 as an industrial contractor. Robotic solar panel cleaning is one of the industrial services we offer today.
Quote for your rooftop
Tell us the building's location and type. Roof access and any known load limits are useful in the notes.
Request a rooftop quote
Other solar cleaning pages
Robotic solar panel cleaning
Overview, assessment process and site requirements.
Solar farms
Utility-scale plants: RFQs from owners and O&M contractors, row access, fixed or tracker arrays, water and logistics.
Mine solar installations
Solar plants on and around mine sites, where haul-road and stockpile dust, inductions and site rules shape the work.
Zambia
Solar farms, mining and commercial and industrial sites in Zambia, with mobilisation agreed for each project.