Considering solar panels for your home? It’s a smart long-term move for lowering energy costs and reducing your carbon footprint. But before getting too far into solar proposals, there’s one critical factor many homeowners forget to think about:
The condition of the roof.
It’s one of the most common — and expensive — oversights when making the move to solar energy.
What happens if you skip the roof evaluation?
Many homeowners install solar panels without realizing their roof might not last much longer. The problem? If the roof starts to fail after the panels are installed, the panels have to be removed and reinstalled — often at a cost of thousands of dollars. It’s a preventable mistake, but only if it’s considered early in the process.
Key roof questions to ask before going solar:
- How old is your roof?
Most asphalt roofs last 20–25 years. If yours is already 15 or more years old, a detailed inspection is a smart move. Solar installers typically want at least 10 years of solid roof life remaining. - What is your roof made of?
Asphalt shingles are the most solar-friendly. Tile and cedar shake roofs can complicate panel attachment and may require extra equipment or partial removal. - Is the structure solid?
Underneath the shingles is the roof deck — usually plywood. If it's rotting, sagging, or soft, it could lead to serious structural issues once the panels are in place. - Are there any signs of damage now?
Granule loss, leaks, or visible sagging are red flags. They may not be obvious from the ground but show up quickly in a roof inspection. - Has a roofer inspected it recently?
Solar companies often don’t do a full structural evaluation of the roof. A roofing inspection helps avoid surprises later — like discovering the roof won’t support the new load or is already deteriorating.
Can you just replace the roof later?
You could — but it’s significantly more expensive. Removing solar panels, storing them, and reinstalling after a re-roofing job can cost between $2,000 and $5,000 or more. That doesn’t include delays, extra coordination, or potential wiring damage.
If a roof replacement is already on the horizon, it makes more sense to address it before — or at the same time as — the solar install.
Even if your roof still has a few years left, it’s often better to replace it now.
- You may qualify for solar tax credits that also apply to roofing work that supports the system
- You avoid costly headaches down the line
- You get a fresh, long-lasting roof that’s ready to support solar from day one
It’s about long-term savings and peace of mind.
Can you combine roof and solar work?
In many cases, yes. Homeowners with aging roofs often choose to bundle a roof replacement and solar installation together. This simplifies coordination and may offer tax advantages — especially when the roof work is directly related to the solar system. (Always confirm details with a licensed tax advisor.)
Final thoughts: Going solar is a great step — but the value of your solar investment depends on the health of the roof underneath. A little planning now can help you avoid thousands in future costs and make your solar setup as efficient and worry-free as possible.