Solar is a great investment for many reasons. It allows you to reduce your carbon footprint, save on energy bills over time and protect yourself from inflation. When considering solar, don’t forget about a crucial and often overlooked component: your roof!
A good roof is the foundation of your solar system. It needs to be properly installed and in good condition. Otherwise, you might end up with a leaky roof, a voided warranty or a costly removal and reinstallation of your solar panels.
Here are some tips to make sure your roof is ready for solar energy:
- Get a Roof Inspection – A qualified roofer can assess the condition of your roof and tell you if it needs any repairs or replacements. Solar panels are warranted for 25 years, so you want your roof to last at least that long too. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it might be better to replace it before installing solar panels. This eliminates the hassle and expense of removing and reinstalling your solar panels later.
- Waterproofing is Key – Attaching solar panels involves making holes in your roof. There are dozens, and in some cases, hundreds of penetrations. Make sure the solar contractor knows how to seal these holes properly with proven flashing products and methods. Improper flashing can result in leaks.
- Check your Warranty – Installing solar can impact your roof’s warranty. Some manufacturers or roofing installers may void it, leaving you high and dry if any roof issues pop up. To avoid this, talk to your roofing contractor before going solar. Get their approval in writing to be safe. You don’t want to risk losing your warranty over a simple misunderstanding.
- Choose the Right Contractor – Opt for a contractor who can handle both your roof and solar. This gives you a single source of warranties for both, and no one can pass the blame if something goes wrong. A high-quality solar installation can only be achieved when there is also a strong knowledge of roofing systems.
Solar and roofing truly go hand in hand. In a perfect world you should hire a contractor who specializes in both. Replacing your roof before a solar installation can be an unexpected expense, but in many cases, the savings from solar will offset the cost of the new roof. Even if a roof replacement is not required, considering both aspects of the project will save you from some serious headaches in the long run.
