Having solar panels installed on your roof can be a great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. But what happens when it’s time for you to replace your roof? If you have solar panels, there are some things you should know before replacing your roof. This blog will answer several common questions about roof replacement projects involving solar panels.

Frequently Asked Questions: Replacing a Roof with Solar Panels

Having solar panels installed is a significant investment, and ensuring they remain functional is essential. However, situations such as needing a new roof or substantial roofing repairs may arise, leaving one wondering about what to expect. Continue reading to gain insights into what to anticipate when replacing a roof with solar panels.

Will Solar Panels Need to be Removed During a Roof Replacement? Yes, it is inevitable that solar panels will have to be removed before replacing a roof. As a result, there will be no access to renewable energy during the entire replacement period, resulting in higher utility bills. It is important to note that the roofers will not be responsible for removing the panels. It's advisable to call your solar installation company to remove the panels before beginning the roof replacement project. Removing and reinstalling these solar panels will take at least a day each, so additional days must be accounted for in the roof replacement project.

Can the Style or Materials of the Roof Be Changed? Although changing the style or materials of a roof is possible, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Not all roofing materials utilize the same solar mounting brackets, which may require mounting hardware replacement- adding extra costs to the project. Hence, it's advisable to consult your solar installation company beforehand to determine if your current mounting hardware will work with your new roof material. Once this is resolved, ensure the new mounting hardware is available when the roof replacement is completed.

Does It Matter Who Removes Solar Panels? Collaboration between roofers and solar installation companies is necessary for a smooth and successful project. As the homeowner, it is essential to communicate with both teams and ensure they understand their respective roles. Opting for a roofing contractor willing to work directly with the solar installation company will lead to a faster and less stressful project. Providing contact information for both parties and letting them collaborate will also result in a more efficient roof replacement project. Remember, as the homeowner, you have control over your project, and your preferences should be clearly communicated.

Issues to Consider When Reroofing with Solar Panels

Reroofing with installed solar panels requires careful consideration to avoid damage and ensure everything is reinstalled correctly. Here are some essential factors to keep in mind:

Potential Damage to Solar Panels: During the roof repair or replacement process, solar panels can get damaged if not handled correctly. Hence, it's crucial to ensure that the contractor takes necessary precautions to avoid such scenarios. Any damages that occur to the solar panel system during the roof replacement process should be taken into account while calculating the reroofing expenses. Costs can include repairing or replacing the damaged panels and other elements of the system, such as wiring and mounting hardware.

Hiring an Experienced Electrician: Hiring an electrician who specializes in solar panel systems is vital when replacing a roof with solar panels. The electrician will be able to safely disconnect and reconnect the wiring, preventing further damage to the system. Additionally, an inspection can be carried out to ensure that wiring or other components haven't been damaged during the roof replacement process. This ensures that everything is installed correctly and is functioning efficiently once the new roof is in place.

By following these guidelines, homeowners can confidently carry out reroofing with solar panels, promote safety, and prevent any further complications related to their solar panel system.

Contact the Team at Columbine Roofing & Solar

Consider a roof inspection before installing solar panels. If the roof has less than five years of useful life, replacing the roof first can save the cost of temporarily removing solar panels. Working with a qualified contractor and electrician is essential to ensure a safe replacement process. Trust Columbine Roofing & Solar for your Colorado residential roofing needs, including solar panel installations. Contact us at (303) 952-4242 for a free consultation.