Do you need a roof replacement with solar panels?

Solar panel systems typically last around 25 to 30 years. Since these systems have long lives, it’s reasonable to ask if your roof will hold up for the same amount of time. Should you replace your roof before you install solar panels? What happens if you need to repair or replace your roof after going solar? 

Generally, it makes sense to replace your roof when you go solar. The good news is that the savings on your electric bill will likely make up the cost of a new roof over time.

But before you reach out to a roofing contractor, we'll help you consider whether you should replace your roof, how a roof replacement will impact your solar savings, and what it costs to remove panels if re-roofing becomes necessary down the line.

Unless your roof is new, it's always worth getting your roof inspected before installing solar panels. While metal and tile roofs can last over 50 years, asphalt roofs usually last only 30 years. So, even if your asphalt roof is just 10 years old, you'll still want to make sure it’ll last as long as your solar panels—most solar panel brands offer a 25-year warranty, but they can often produce adequate electricity for more than 30 years. The good news is that solar panels often extend the life of your roof, so it doesn’t need to be brand new. 

If your installer suggests a roof replacement before going solar, we recommend listening to them. Otherwise, you could pay hefty fees to remove and reinstall your panels down the line—or worse, have leaks in your roof that damage your home. Replacing your roof and getting solar panels at the same time can even provide some benefits.

Is going solar still worth it if you need to replace your roof?

Re-roofing costs can be high, but so are rising energy costs. Even with the cost of a new roof, you'll likely save upwards of $60,000 on electric bills with solar. If your roof already needs to be replaced, this is the best time to go solar. 

If you're not in your forever home, you may worry about investing too much money in your home. But remember, solar can increase your home's resale value by 5-10%, and having a new roof can make it easier to sell your home for more money.

What are the benefits of replacing your roof before going solar?

Approach offers for "free" roof replacements with a healthy dose of caution. When a company advertises this, it's typically part of a bundled deal. Many solar installers work with roofing companies to provide a discounted roof replacement when you install solar panels. 

Alternatively, a “free” roof replacement could refer to a solar roof installation, which inherently requires replacing your existing roof. In this case, the replacement isn't truly "free"; you're purchasing the new roof itself, with the removal of the old roof included as part of the package.

It's totally possible to replace your roof after a solar installation, but it won't be cheap.

How much does it cost to remove solar panels to replace your roof?

It could cost over $7,000 to remove and reinstall solar panels. Generally, you should expect to pay about $200 to $300 per panel. And don’t forget: You'll also need to pay for roof replacement.

The price you'll pay depends on the size of your system, how many panels you need removed, if your installer needs to remove mounting hardware, and whether you need a place to store the equipment. It's also important to note that once your installer removes your panels, it usually voids the panel manufacturer's warranty, so if something goes wrong with your panels in the future, you'll be on the hook.

Who should you contact to remove your solar panels?

We recommend contacting your original solar installer to remove and reinstall panels. They'll be most familiar with your installation, and their warranty may even cover part or all of the costs. If you can't get in touch with them, some other solar companies offer operations and maintenance services for installations other than their own.

If re-roofing post-installation concerns you, we recommend asking installers how often they do this type of work and what its typical cost is before selecting a solar quote. Some companies specify a price in your initial contract, and it never hurts to request this from your company before installation.

Do solar installation warranties cover the roof?

Solar installations rarely cause roofing issues. As we mentioned before, solar panels actually tend to make your roof more durable by protecting it from the elements. However, many solar installation companies offer warranty coverage for the roof where the panels are installed. It's common for an existing roofing warranty to become void when you install solar, at least for the portion covered by solar panels. Solar installers offer this roof warranty for your peace of mind.

Roof warranties from solar companies typically last 10 years, but they can vary. If your installer recommends a roof replacement and you choose not to listen, there's a good chance they won't provide warranty coverage. Before you sign a contract, confirm with your installation company whether they cover the roof and the duration of that warranty.

A roof replacement isn’t the most glamorous investment, and it can add a hefty addition to your solar panel installation costs. But it's often the smartest if you’re going solar. Your solar panels will be up there for decades, converting sunlight into savings on every electric bill. Making sure your roof can go the distance will save you money—and headaches—down the line.