In general, it is recommended that you replace your roof once every 20 years, because, even with proper maintenance and care, your roof will get weaker over time due to the effects of heat, wind, rain and other extreme weather conditions. That said, if you are considering going solar, it is recommended that you get a roof replacement before you install solar panels—even if you are not due for a roof replacement. This will create a stronger base for the solar panels and make it so that you don’t have to worry about uninstalling and reinstalling your panels for another 20 years.
However, if your roof is due for replacement and already has solar panels installed on it, then there are a few ways to go about replacing your roof.
Have Your Solar Panels Removed by Your Solar Panel Provider
While it may seem like a hassle to replace your solar-paneled roof, this does not have to be the case. Before replacing anything, contact the company that installed your solar panels and ask what the procedure and cost is to temporarily uninstall them. They may do it for free, but you definitely don’t want to do it on your own as solar panels are heavy and fragile. Any attempt on your part to remove them could cause irreparable damage or invalidate your warranty.
Replace Your Roof and Solar Panels at the Same Time
Solar panels have the same average lifespan of a typical roof. Therefore, by replacing your roof and your solar panels simultaneously, you can sync up their timing for when they will have to be replaced again. However, it is important to note that most roof replacement companies do not deal with solar panels and vice versa, so be sure to have both vendors in communication with each other if you are planning on replacing both at once.
Have Your Roof Professionally Inspected
It is recommended that your roof is inspected by a professional roofer before and after solar panels are installed to ensure the roof is intact and has suffered no damage during installation. Solar panel installations are known to cause minor damages to roofs from time to time, and while the solar panel installer will look for damages, sometimes they don’t have the same eye for weak spots on the roof like a professional roofer does. Therefore, after everything is said and done, a professional roofer should do a final inspection for any loose shingles, accidental punctures, or damaged roofing.
Your Local Roof Replacement Experts
If you’re in the market for a roof replacement, look no further than the high-quality roof installations provided by the roofing experts at RBS Construction & Roofing. At RBS Construction & Roofing, we are dedicated to providing you with quality products and services at an affordable price.
Having served the Orlando area for over three decades, our veteran craftsmen can carefully navigate around solar panels to provide superior roof replacement or repair services. We will also keep you informed every step of the way, giving you the peace of mind you deserve when it comes to the integrity of your commercial or residential roof.
For more information on our roof replacement services or to schedule a free consultation, call us at 407-859-8163 today.