Get to know about whether to replace a roof before solar panel installation and how to replace a roof that already has solar panels installed
Wondering how to replace a roof with solar panels? Every year, millions of homeowners find they need a roof replacement, whether they decide to go solar or not. About 2.3 million homes per year will need a roof replacement over the next decade. Harsh weather conditions, regular wear and tear, and many other factors could lead to this decision.
However, a solar installation could prompt homeowners to be proactive with repairs or replacements of their roofs.
While it’s generally recommended that you replace your roof before installing solar panels, sometimes you just can’t help tidying things up. Still, have questions about how to replace a roof that already has solar panels installed on it? We have some tips to help you on your way to roofing and solar power.
How do you know when you need a new roof before installing solar panels?
Deciding whether or not you really need to replace your roof to get solar panels depends on many factors. For example, what type of roof you have, how heavy it is, the condition of your roof, etc. all play a role in whether it needs a replacement.
Your best bet would be to consult one of our solar specialists at 12 Roofing who will take the time to evaluate your roof during your consultation. Until then, let’s explore some of the most common signs that will point you in the direction of a new top.
1. Storm damage
The most obvious reason you might need to replace your roof is damage. But no matter where you live, there’s simply no escaping the consequences of bad weather. Here are some scenarios:
• Water in its many forms could be a major hindrance to your roof. When freezing temperatures cause rain to freeze, ice can damage shingles and even cause cracks in the roof. Also, the weight of falling snow could push the capacity of your roof to the limit. Also, the water could erode your roof and cause leaks.
• Winds are one of the main culprits for missing shingles. If you live in an area prone to high wind, your shingles could simply fly off your roof. But also, nearby branches or other debris could be picked up and these may cause damage to your roof.
• Loss of granules is a common result of weathering. Over time, the top layer of shingles wears down due to harsh winter conditions such as hail and wind.
2. What is the estimated age of your roof?
While how long you can expect a roof to last varies, a good estimate is around 20 years or more. Asphalt is the most common roofing material due to its affordability. This material has the potential to last up to 30 years. If you want to know how to replace a roof with solar panels, you need to make an informed estimate of the age of the roof.
Ultimately, a newer roof (less than 10 years old) with no structural or surface damage is an ideal candidate for solar installation. This is not necessarily the case with an old roof (20 years or more).
3. Roof Condition Assessment
Damage is an obvious symptom that a roof has to be replaced, as previously stated. However, the best way to know if you’ll need a roof replacement is through an official roof inspection by your solar specialist.
Here are some things we will check when evaluating the condition of your roof:
• Insulation quality and color
• Faded roof decking
• Roof tiles, vents, or other areas damaged
• Leaks and other possible water damage inside
If we find any of those indications of some type of roof damage, we’ll let you know it’s time to replace the roof before installing a solar panel.As a general rule, try to replace your roof before installing solar panels. However, if this is not possible, don’t worry. This is actually a common occurrence. The useful life of solar panels is usually 20 to 25 years.
However, solar panels can last much longer than that, sometimes outliving the roof they were originally installed on! In fact, many people have even moved and taken their solar panels with them.
The point is, regardless of your situation, learning how to replace a roof with solar panels is valuable knowledge with an answer that’s simpler than you think.
Step One: Contact Your Rooftop Solar Installer
Call us and your solar panel specialists and we will take care of everything. We will also assist you with any procedures you may need to remove them.
Step Two: Remove Solar Panels
Once you have called your solar specialist, we will take care of the disposal. It is best if the original solar installation company handles your solar panels.
That way you avoid accidentally damaging them or voiding any warranty. However, if your original solar installers are not an option, we can handle any necessary procedures for this.
Don’t panic – you can still get solar energy from Pulse Power Texas, which is one of the leading solar providers in the state, and they can help you get the power you need to run your home or business with the best rates and plans.
Step Three: Securing Your Solar Panels
Once the solar panels are removed, they must be placed in a safe place. This new location should generally be far enough away from your roof replacement to be safe. A garage or shed is usually acceptable. Make sure you don’t leave them out on your porch or front yard.
Step Four: Remove Roofing Material
Once the solar panels are secured, your trusted roof installers will begin the process of removing your old roof. Roof removal creates a lot of debris, so take cover! Fortunately, you’ve placed your solar panels in a safe spot away from all the action.
Step Five: Replacing Your Roof
Once the old roof is removed, the installers will begin the roof renovation process. Duration will vary, depending on the size of your roof and the roofing materials used. Your roofing company will be able to provide you with an assessment of how long it will take.
Step Six: Reinstalling Your Solar Panels
When the roof replacement job is done, your solar installers will complete the re-installation process on your new roof. This service also includes the reconnection of your solar panels to the electrical grid and solar batteries, if you have them.
Get a new roof before you go solar
If you don’t already have solar panels, it’s important to know that you should always get a new roof before switching to solar power if your roof isn’t in the right condition to handle a solar system. Once again, a roof inspection will let you know the exact condition of your roof.
If you decide to put solar panels on a roof that is not structurally sound, you will end up with serious problems down the road. Not only might the weight of the panels cause your roof to crumble, but you could also incur thousands of dollars in needless removal and repair expenditures.
Simply put, the decision to get a new roof before switching to solar comes down to being safe and saving money.
Going solar is not only a great decision for your environment, it’s a financially wise decision that will pay off in the long run. How do you replace a roof with solar panels? Visit 12 Roofing company website to know all the details regarding replacing roof with solar panels. Let the experts at 12 Roofing take care of it and guide you through the process.