You are interested in solar panels for your home. Does this mean you should replace your roof now? It depends. Here are some things to consider.
How old is your current roof?
If your current roof is in good, solid condition without active leaks and is relatively new, your roof will likely outlast the lifespan of your solar panels. Roofs nowadays can last up to 50 years depending on weather conditions and other factors. Solar panels are generally rated to last 25 years. The actual lifespan of the solar panels should be discussed with your solar panel provider based on type and model.
What if I wait to replace the roof until after the solar panels are installed?
If you think you still have some life left in your roof, you should consider how long you have because ultimately, it costs time and money to install, remove and reinstall solar panels. You risk damage to your solar panels each time they are handled. Typically, roofers will not take on the responsibility of removing and reinstalling solar panels because they don’t want the liability.
If I do want to replace my roof before solar panel installation, do I get to choose my roofing contractor?
YES! Make sure the solar company isn’t strong arming you into using “their guy”. It’s always up to you to find a trusted local contractor and choose who you want to work with. If the solar company is pressuring you, it might not be a good fit for you and your home regardless. It’s important to feel comfortable with the roofing contractor as well as the solar company separate from one another.
I need a new roof anyway. Is now the right time to think about adding solar panels?
Yes, if you are thinking about solar panels somewhere in the future, it’s not a bad idea to consider adding them after your roof replacement so the solar panels and roof can age at the same rate. Knowing you are thinking about installing solar panels, your roofing contractor may recommend certain products and applications to better prepare your home to receive the solar panels. Seaberg Construction likes to take the extra initiative to install an ice and water shield over the entire roof instead of just around the edges of the roof. We feel this further protects the roof from future potential damage and leaks from the solar panel installation. Whenever you’re creating holes in a roof to mount solar panels, there’s room for damage and over time, it can worsen.
Can I roll my roof replacement cost into my solar panel loan?
Likely yes, reputable solar companies advise you to replace the roof before installing solar panels to prevent future issues with reinstallation of the solar panels and wiring later on. Work with the solar company to nail down a financing loan that includes the roof. It makes sense to streamline the process by filling out one credit application and making one payment per month. If the solar company isn’t willing to work with you on this, it might be time to move on. Nowadays there are several solar companies to choose from.
I’m only having a few solar panels installed. Should I wait until my roof needs to be replaced?
Talk this over with your solar company. Find out how much it’ll cost to remove and reinstall the solar panels and wiring once you do need a roof replacement. If the cost is nominal, it makes sense to wait in this case. If your roof is sound, and can bear the additional weight of the solar panels, then you might be able to get away with waiting. It’s never a bad idea to pay for a roof inspection ahead of solar panel installation. Roof inspection fees tend to be low and affordable. Having a professional roofer give your roof a once over would provide peace of mind ahead of any major investment decisions.
Seaberg Construction is well versed in providing roof replacements ahead of solar panel installation. We can help determine the best route to take to ensure your home is protected. Remember, you get to choose your roofing contractor. If you’d like work with us, send us a message here: https://seabergconstruction.com/residential-roofing-rhode-island/
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