Solar panels are a great way to make your home less reliant on the energy grid. After installing the panels, you may be able to sell power back to the grid, sell your home for more, and pay little to nothing in utility costs. The only downside is the initial investment for solar panels can be high. To add to that, some people suggest you replace your whole roof before you install the solar panels too. Why do people recommend that, and is it really necessary?

Why Do Some Roofers Recommend It?

Deciding to install panels may be simple, but the choice of what to do with the rest of your roof may not be. Once you have solar panels on your roof, you will need to remove them to replace the shingles. Solar panels have elaborate mounting gear, which makes them safe and secure. But they do add a bit of fuss for roof repair. Should you try to put off that trouble for as long as possible by replacing your roof right now? That’s what some roofers suggest. Still, it is wise to make sure that decision is really best for you.

What to Consider Before You Replace Your Roof

To be clear, as long as your roof is currently functioning, it is not necessary to replace it before you get your solar panels installed. However, it may sometimes be in your best interest. Here’s how you can assess what is best for you:

  • Roof age: The age of your roof is probably the single biggest factor in whether or not you should replace it now. If it is a year or two away from the end of its expected lifespan, then you will save money by simply replacing it now. If the roof is only a few years old, or even mid-way through its life, then there’s no sense in replacing it.
  • Your budget:A full roof replacement is a big cost, especially when you’re also investing in solar panels. If you don’t have the budget for a total roof replacement, you can just put it off. When you do end up getting the replacement, it will cost a bit more, but if you expect to have the money by then, waiting may make more sense for you.
  • Cost of removing the panels: Are you adding just one small panel or a huge array of panels? The number of solar panels and their mounting system may radically change the cost of removing them. If the cost is tiny, waiting for a roof replacement may make sense. However, if the cost of removing the solar panels is quite large, it makes more sense to get the roof done now.
  • Solar panel coverage: The shingles beneath your solar panels will be protected from ultraviolet light. This light is one of the major factors that wear down the shingles and reduces their lifespan. Shingles that may only last a few years more may last longer under the shade of the panels.

Ultimately, a roofer you trust will be best able to help you assess if it is best to replace your roof before you get your solar panels installed. It’s wise to have them involved in the installation process anyway!