Roofs, Replacements, Storm Damage & Your Solar Array
Solar panels have a life span of 40 plus years, but your roof may not. What do you have to do to replace the roof and what is the cost if solar is already installed on it? Replacing a roof with a solar array is easier than you think. The most common choice to handle the removal of the system is by working with the original installer as they are the most familiar with your system. They will turn off the system, disconnect the connections and detach the solar panels and racking, leaving the flashing in most cases. The new roofing will be installed over and around the flashing, leaving the mounting brackets in their original place.
What does it cost to remove and re-install my solar?
Unfortunately, it is hard to give specific costs as removal and re-installation of an existing solar array varies for each project depending on complexity, size of the system and roof pitch, just to name a few considerations when estimating. Estimation is typically calculated for time and materials needed to remove and reinstall the array and working within the timeframes and schedule of the roofing contractor. For a free estimate, connect with Eagle Point Solar here: https://eaglepointsolar.com/contact/
Should I get my roof replaced before getting solar?
It is important to consider the condition of your roof before installing solar. If you believe your roof is nearing its end-of-life and in need of replacement, it is best to get an expert to evaluate the condition of the shingles or roofing material. Solar panels are more durable than most traditional roofing materials such as asphalt shingles. When a solar array is installed over existing roof materials, the array acts as another layer of protection, helping to extend the life of the roof materials below the panel(s). The direct impact effects to a roof from wind, rain, snow, ice, hail and sunlight are all lessened due to the protective nature of the solar array. A roof in good condition directly under were the array will be installed is unlikely to need replacement during the lifetime of the system.
Do solar panels make your home’s interior temperature hotter?
No! Contrary to popular belief and the logic of a dark color absorbing heat and transferring it to your house it is not true for solar. According to a study conducted by researchers at UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering, solar panels reduced the amount of heat reaching the roof by an incredible 38%, keeping a building’s roof 5 degrees cooler than portions of a roof in direct sunlight.
Solar panels absorb the sunlight to produce electricity but about half of the heat directed at the panels is re-emitted back into the sky. Without solar, a dark-colored shingle or metal roof would absorb a large portion of the heat and pass it into the building, directly resulting in higher cooling bills to maintain a comfortable interior temperature.
If I need a new roof, should I still consider solar?
While the cost of replacing a roof can have a sizable impact on your budget, so could the cost of waiting to get solar. The federal tax incentives are scheduled to decrease and any additional state or local incentives or grants won’t last forever either. It is important to evaluate your options to determine how much you can save by comparing roof replacement costs coupled with installing solar. In many cases, you may find replacing the roof and adding solar is more beneficial than waiting a few years in-between the projects. With electric rates continuing to rise year-over-year, and limited incentives and grants available, the substantial savings solar can provide is worth your time in comparing the costs and benefits of completing both projects in unison. As a reminder, solar will also act as a protective layer on your newly installed shingles or roofing material helping to further extend the life of the roof.
How does severe weather impact my roofs durability if I have solar?
Solar arrays have outstanding durability in severe weather. Panels, racking and other components are tested and rated for their strength and capabilities to withstand Mother Nature’s rathe. Generally, tier 1 panels and a quality-built solar array can withstand modest-sized hail, high winds and severe cold or heat conditions. This durability serves to further protect the roof materials such as shingles or metal sheeting under the array, helping to prolong their lifespan. As previously mentioned, during periods of extreme cold or heat, the solar array serves as an additional barrier between these outdoor weather activities and your comfortable interior climate.
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Considering adding solar to your home or need an estimate for removal and re-install of an existing solar array? Request a FREE Solar Analysis or talk to an Eagle Point Solar team member today.