9 Things to Consider Before Getting a New Roof and Solar Panels
Did you know that homeowners across the U.S. have saved thousands of dollars in energy costs after installing solar panels? However, there’s one crucial step many overlook—ensuring their roof is ready to support this new energy system. Solar panels are a long-term investment, and the state of your roof plays a critical role in their effectiveness and longevity.
In this article, we’ll cover 9 essential factors you need to consider before installing a new roof and solar panels. From roof age to material suitability, these points will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that your home is ready for a future powered by solar energy.
Ready to make the switch? Keep reading—or contact Mid-Shore Exteriors now to discuss your roof and solar project!
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Is Your Roof Ready for a Roof Replacement with Solar Panels?
Before you install solar panels—or if you already have them installed—your roof needs to be in top condition. Why? Solar panels last 25–30 years, and it’s important that your roof can match that lifespan.
A poorly maintained or aging roof will lead to expensive and inconvenient roof repairs down the line, as you’ll need to remove and reinstall the panels. Below are the essential considerations when evaluating your readiness for roof replacement with solar panels:
- Roof Age: If your roof is more than 10-20 years old, it may not last as long as your solar panels. Any existing roof issues must be addressed properly before any solar panels are installed. Replacing an aging roof before installation can save thousands of dollars from needing to take down the panels for future roof work and the reinstallation. If you already have solar panels and your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, it’s critical to do your roof replacment now to avoid the need to remove your solar panels later.
- Material Suitability: Asphalt shingles and metal are the best materials for supporting solar panels with a new roof. Wood shakes, slate roofs or flat roofs may not be the ideal roof material if you’re looking to have solar panels installed.
- Structural Integrity: Solar panels add weight to your roof. A structural inspection is necessary to ensure that your new roof and solar panels can handle the load without the risk of damage or collapse.
- Roof Shape and Slope: The angle and shape of your roof affect how efficiently solar panels can capture sunlight. South-facing roofs with a slope of 30-45 degrees are ideal for solar energy production.
- Water Drainage: Ensure that your solar installation does not interfere with your roof’s drainage system. Poor water management can cause leaks, pooling, or damage of your new roof and solar panels.
- Weather Considerations: In Maryland, Delaware, or Virginia (The Delmarva Peninsula) your new roof and solar panels must endure everything from strong winds to heavy rain, ice or snow. Durable roofing materials ensure that your solar panels stay secure in even the toughest weather conditions.
- Warranties: The warranty on your roof should align with the lifespan of your solar panels. Choose materials with long-term warranties to avoid mismatches that could result in costly repairs to your solar panel roof system.
- Building Codes: Local regulations can cause issues with solar panel installation. Mid-Shore Exteriors ensures your roof meets all local codes, so your new roof and solar panel installation process is smooth and compliant.
- Future Access for Maintenance: Solar panels will cover a significant portion of your roof, so it’s important to ensure that the layout allows for easy access when future roof inspections or repairs are needed.
Contact Mid-Shore Exteriors to schedule an inspection and get your roof replacement prior to solar panel installation, today!
Boosting Efficiency Through an Integrated Solar Panel Roof System
The integration of a durable roof with an efficient solar panel system is crucial for maximizing energy output, minimizing maintenance, and extending the life of both. Here’s how we ensure your solar panel roof system works in harmony:
- Expert Roof Inspections: We start with a comprehensive inspection to assess the current state of your roof. Our experienced team ensures that your roof replacement with solar panels undergoes necessary upgrades before installation.
- Weather-Resistant Solutions: Maryland, Delaware, or Virginia (The Delmarva Peninsula’s) harsh weather demands a roof that can withstand high winds, ice, snow, and heavy rain. Our team uses the most durable, weather-resistant materials to protect both your new roof and solar panels from environmental damage.
- Maximized Energy Production: Your roof’s slope, orientation, and shape significantly impact how much sunlight your solar panels with a new roof receive.
- Seamless Integration: At Mid-Shore Exteriors, we understand the importance of a well installed roof system. We make sure that your new roof is functional and has the durability to withhold solar panels.
- Minimized Maintenance Costs: Through flawless integration and the use of high-quality materials, we minimize long-term maintenance costs. With Mid-Shore Exteriors, you can be confident your new roof is built to last.
Reach out to discuss how we can make your roof system solar panel ready!
Protect Your Investment: Install Solar Panels with a New Roof
At Mid-Shore Exteriors, we’ve worked with countless homeowners who wanted to install solar panels but had concerns about the condition of their roofs. One recent project involved a homeowner who was eager to make the switch to solar but had a roof nearing the end of its life. By recommending a roof replacement prior to solar panels, we helped them avoid future issues and ensured that their new roof was solar panel ready for many years to come.
We are proud to offer services to install your new roof to the highest specifications. We have acheived GAF Master Elite certification and we are Shingle Master Certified by CertainTeed which offer extended solar panels friendly product and workmanship warranties to last! We also offer flexible financing options to make your roofing, siding, or gutter project more affordable!
If you’re ready to install solar panels with a new roof, contact Mid-Shore Exteriors today to schedule a free consultation!
