As energy costs continue to rise, so does the popularity of solar panels, which are installed on your roof. Solar energy is a great way to keep your energy costs down while also helping the environment. Many homeowners and businesses are making the switch to solar energy. But before you have solar panels installed on your roof, it is important to take a good look at your roof first. It is best to start a solar system with a good foundation. Solar panels need a good solid surface for the brackets to be mounted to. These brackets cannot attach to rotting or damaged roof underlayment, as this can damage both your roof and the solar panels.
But My Roof Isn’t That Old!
Most solar systems last about 25-30 years. If you have roof shingles that are meant to last 25 years, and they were installed 10 years ago, this can be a problem. If your roof meets or exceeds its life expectancy while you have solar panels installed, you will need to contact your solar panel installer to have them removed while the roof is replaced. But if you originally used a solar panel contractor that is located out of state or is extremely busy, you could be waiting weeks or even months to have your solar panels removed!
When signing up for a solar roof system, always be sure to ask your solar panel contractor what the charge would be to remove and reinstall your panels in case of an issue with your roof. Double-check that this is written clearly in your contract. This is an issue most homeowners are not anticipating, and are sometimes blindsided when solar companies charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Solar panels are a smart way to save money on energy costs. The best way to protect yourself from future costs and inconvenience is to make sure you start with a good foundation; that is, a good, solid roof that is not nearing the end of its life expectancy. Contact the roofing experts at Emmons for an inspection if you’re thinking of installing solar panels on your roof.
