September 19, 2023

Should You Replace Your Roof Before Installing Solar Panels?

‍Is Your Roof Solar-Compatible?

PV systems are costly investments, so you must ensure their longevity. Before investing in solar panels, evaluate your home for compatibility. Homeowners can access their records and determine the age of their roof.

If your roof is over 30 years old, you will need to replace it before installing a PV system. The average lifespan of a solar panel is 25 years, and you must ensure the stability of your roof throughout that time.

You can also examine your home for current issues, like curling or breaking shingles. If your energy bill is high, hot or cool air may be escaping from your roof. Evaluate it for cracks or leaks and determine the level of damage.

If your roof displays any signs of damage, wait to install solar panels. Replacing your roof may require an upfront outlay that pays off over time with decreased utility costs and increased home value. If your roof is in good condition, you can maintain its structure with regular maintenance.

Benefits of Roof Replacement

When replacing your roof, you improve your solar panel security. In high winds and natural disasters, your roof is responsible for protecting your panels. Up-to-date roofs can withstand storms and movement better than older structures. You can also conduct alterations to your rooftop during a renovation to maximize panel security.

New roofing materials and designs can increase the energy efficiency of a house. The current shingles on the market do more than keep your home dry. They repel heat and withstand harsh weather elements.

Repelling heat away from your home prevents excess heat from overwhelming your HVAC system. Taking the stress off your PV device helps it meet residential energy demands, limiting your reliance on the grid. It also allows homeowners to save money over time.

Additionally, new roofs improve home safety. Solar panels add weight to your home, so stability is essential. New roofs can withstand excess weight and prevent leaks, mold, and pests. When water and pests enter the house, they can generate toxins and cause adverse health effects in residents.

Preventive Maintenance

Even after you replace your old roof, preventive maintenance is essential to your panels’ security and efficiency. Homeowners experience different harmful elements each season. You can protect your roof by preparing for seasonal interference.

Throughout the winter, many Americans experience snow, hail, and ice storms. Solar panels easily withstand snowstorms. Their sturdy exterior and water-repellent composition help maintain their stability.

Snow cleans off panels, removing dirt and buildup that interferes with efficiency. Protecting your roof is the biggest concern. Before winter storms approach, you should clean your gutters and downspouts, seal flashing and vents, and replace any damaged shingles.

In the spring, after the snow melts and the weather warms, you can get outside and check your roof for damage. Snow, ice, and wind may crack or fracture your shingles. Ensure professionals repair damaged roof regions before spring showers roll in.

Summer is the harshest season for a home. Humidity and heat have adverse effects on roof materials. Warm and wet regions promote algae and mold growth. Over time, the invasive material can rot your roof and cause residential health concerns.

The summer is also an optimal time for tree trimming. Large branches pose significant harm to the security of your roof. They also block solar panels from maximum sun exposure.

In the fall, homeowners may repair broken gutters, allowing water to flow off and away from your roof. You may also schedule a complete roof inspection in the fall. A professional can evaluate all regions and conduct necessary damage repairs.

Is Solar Worth It If You Need a New Roof?

New roofs are costly, and they can optimize your PV system. The average homeowner may save tens of thousands of dollars over a panel’s lifetime. You can contribute a portion of your energy savings to pay off your new roof, eliminating financial stress.

Homeowners can reach out to a solar professional before making their investment and evaluate their potential solar savings. From there, you can make an educated decision about your purchase. When looking for a professional, you can assess companies that provide roof replacements and solar installations.

Many solar companies also conduct roof replacements, saving the homeowner money and time. Working with one project manager significantly reduces stress throughout the process. It also increases the project’s efficiency, letting the homeowner put their savings into their panel purchase.

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