Do I Need a New Roof Before I Put Solar Panels On?
Are you finally getting ready to install solar panels? Congratulations! A solar energy system will help you slash your expensive energy costs and protect this beautiful planet that we call home. There’s just one thing that you might not have considered—your roof.
We’ve seen it many times, a homeowner starts the process of solar installation only to discover a roofing problem that stops the solar installation in its tracks.
Don’t let a roofing issue surprise you as you start your solar installation! Our team at Solar Bear Orlando discusses everything you need to know about roofing before you go solar.
Your Roof: A Crucial Component
Your roof is a crucial component of your solar panel system. Your solar panels have to be installed somewhere after all, and while some homeowners choose to install their solar systems on a ground array, the majority have them installed on their roofs.
This means that your roof must be sturdy enough and in optimal condition to handle the added weight of a solar panel system.
Your roof isn’t just tiles or shingles attached to the top of your home, it is a complex system made up of multiple layers that work together to keep your home insulated and the harsh elements out.
Generally, a standard roof is comprised of:
- Roof Truss
- Decking
- Insulation
- Ice and water barrier
- Underlayment
- Wood frame
- Shingles or tiles
If any component of your roof is damaged, it can weaken the entire structure of your roof, and installing solar panels will have to wait.
Why Your Roof’s Age Matters
Just because you don’t notice any damage at first glance at your roof, it doesn’t mean that your roof is ready for a solar panel installation. The age of your roof can play a big role here too.
The lifespan of a roof depends on multiple factors including what it is made from, the climate and environment, and how well it has been maintained.
Many Florida roofs use clay tiles which have a long lifespan of almost 50 years. Shingled roofs often last for 15-20 years. If you live in a harsh climate your roof may have a shorter lifespan.
Why does this matter? Well, as the components of your roof age and wear out, they become vulnerable to cracking, holes, and leaking. An old roof will not be able to carry the added weight of heavy solar panels and might not hold up well when installing racking for your system.
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it is wise to replace it before installing solar panels.
Why You Should Install a New Roof Before Installing Solar Panels
Repairing and replacing your roof can be expensive, and the last thing that you want to do is spend more money on your roof especially if you are planning to install solar panels.
We know it can be difficult to budget for a new roof, but the stronger and better your roof, the longer your solar panels can do their job to power your home.
If you try to cut corners and install solar panels on an aging or damaged roof, you’ll have to address these problems in the future, and it can get quite costly. Imagine how expensive it would be to have to take down your solar panels and then re-install them on a new roof later. It’s just not worth it.
Learn More> Will Installing Solar Panels Affect My Roof Warranty?
Choose a Solar Company that Does Both!
It doesn’t have to be a nightmare to find a roofing company or a solar contractor. At Solar Bear Orlando, we offer both solar installations and roof repairs/replacements so you can get everything done by one contractor that you trust.
Combining a roof replacement with a solar installation allows our team to be as efficient as possible, and we are happy to pass those savings back to you, our customer!
Your search for a trustworthy solar and roofing contractor is over! Call our team at Solar Bear Orlando for a roof and solar installation quote today; 407-904-7585!
