As of 2022, solar energy is one of the fastest-growing alternative energy sources in the world. Since it comes from the sun, experts classify it as entirely renewable. Therefore, people can use it to generate power indefinitely without worrying about harming the environment. Plus, having a set of panels is an excellent way to save money, too, because solar power locks electricity costs at a constant rate.
In light of these benefits, it’s no wonder that big corporations and ordinary citizens alike are scrambling to get a set of panels. However, before making the switch, you first have to make sure your home is solar-ready. Most people install their panels on the roof since that’s an area that gets the most sunlight.
Installers generally recommend you patch up your roof before adding panels to it. But this isn’t always a guarantee your roof will stay intact. Accidents, bad weather, or faulty piping can damage even newly furnished roofs, putting you in a situation where you have to fix it. So, you may wonder: If I need to replace my roof and have solar panels, what do I do? Here is a complete breakdown of how you can properly repair a roof with solar panels.
Why Put Your Panels on the Roof
There is no way around it — replacing a roof is extremely expensive. According to recent data, most Americans spend, on average, anywhere between $5,000 to $8,000 on roof repairs. That’s a pretty hefty sum, especially if you’re already planning on investing in solar panels. Therefore, you may be tempted to skip the roofing and add your panels elsewhere on your property.
This is a perfectly valid option. A lot of homeowners prefer to install their systems in their backyards. However, though it’s a good spot for panels to catch the light, it isn’t as convenient as a roof. For one, your roof is an area that gets the most sunlight during any given time of day.
As the sun climbs across the sky, any panels you have in your backyard will inevitably end up in the shade. Granted, solar panels do continue working even when they’re not exposed to direct sunlight. However, they work at maximum capacity when they’re getting UV light head-on. Thus, your roof is truly the best place to capture sunlight around the clock.
Secondly, it’s just more convenient. Even the smallest solar panel system is large and clunky. Therefore, installing it in your backyard means you’ll lose valuable space you could potentially use for a shed or a garden. So, even though getting your roof solar ready may be expensive, it truly is the best way to get maximum power out of your panels.
How To Replace a Roof With Solar Panels: 3 Easy Tips
While a roof is the best place for your panels, it’s not always the most convenient one — especially if your roof gets damaged. In case you need emergency repairs to your solar roof, here are 3 easy tips on how to handle the issue while keeping costs down!
1. Find Roofers Who Have Experience Handling Solar Panels
It goes without saying that in order to replace your roof, you’ll have to take your panels down. In that case, you’ll want to work with a roofing company that has experience handling solar-powered roofs. They’ll know how to tailor the repairs to your system. That way, you’ll be able to reinstall the panels without any issue.
However, you’ll still have to contact your solar provider to take the system down and put it back up. Even if a roofing company has dealt with panels in the past, they aren’t authorized to handle them. So letting them do so could potentially result in serious damage and loss of warranty.
2. Choose New Roofing Material Wisely
When it comes to replacing a solar panel roof, materials matter. Different roof materials use different solar brackets, which may not be completely compatible with your system. Thus, if you chose the wrong materials, you’ll need to pay another thousand dollars extra to replace the mounting brackets too. So, before getting to business, coordinate with your roofing company and solar provider to see which materials match your system.
3. Use a Warranty to Cut Costs
If you have solar panels on your roof, then chances are they come with a 10-year warranty. While every contract is different, most warranties will cover the costs of reinstalling the panels. Therefore, if you want to save money, check how your warranty covers roof replacement and panel reinstallation.
Why Go Solar, Read More Today
Renewable Energy in Florida, Benefit Today
Lease Your New Solar System With Us
Looking for the Best Solar Panels in Florida?
