Do I need a new roof before I put solar panels on?
If your roof has fewer years left than your solar panels, it is usually best to replace the roof first. Solar panels are mounted to the roof and are designed to stay in place for decades. If the roof needs to be replaced a few years after the panels go on, the panels will have to be removed and reinstalled, which adds to the cost of the new roof.
How old is your roof?
Start with the age and condition of your roof. If it has less than about ten years left, replacing it before installing solar is usually the better choice. If it has fifteen years or more left, the panels can usually go on as planned.
A roof inspection will tell you the condition of your roof before you move forward with solar.
Removing and reinstalling solar panels
If a roof with solar panels needs to be replaced, the panels and racking are removed, the new roof is installed, and the mounts are flashed into the new roof before the panels go back on.
Planning the roof and the solar installation in the right order helps you avoid paying for this work later.
Questions to ask before signing a solar contract
Who is responsible if the roof leaks at a panel mount? Does the workmanship warranty cover roof penetrations, and for how long? What does it cost to remove and reinstall the panels if the roof needs to be replaced? Does the contract require a specific company to handle panel removal?
Get answers to these questions before you sign.
Replacing a roof around existing panels
Replacing a roof around panels that stay in place leaves the old mounts and flashing under the new roof. Those mounts are common places for leaks to start.
Removing the panels allows the mounts to be flashed properly into the new roof.
Related Questions
Will removing my panels void the solar warranty?
It depends on your solar provider and your contract. Some require their own crew to remove the panels, so check before any roof work is scheduled.
Does insurance pay to remove panels for a storm damage roof replacement?
Sometimes, when the roof replacement is covered and the panels must be removed to do the work. Ask your adjuster and make sure it is included in the approved claim.
Do solar panels damage a roof?
Properly installed and flashed mounts should not damage a roof. Poorly flashed mounts can lead to leaks.
Do you provide both roofing and solar?
Yes. FBM Roofing & Solar provides roofing services and solar panel installation.
