The short answer, yes. Think about this, if you do not replace your roof before having solar panels installed, what happens when you need to replace your roof in the future? That is right, you have to uninstall your solar panels first, and then replace your roof. This is the number one reason you should replace your roof before you have solar panels installed.
There are a few things a homeowner should do before planning anything about their roof. The first thing to do is to have a solar contractor determine the feasibility of your plan. Make sure that you will see a return on your investment and or that having solar panels installed on your roof will actually be beneficial. The next thing a homeowner should do is consider the coordination of the project. Solar contractors often have roofing companies that they work with to coordinate the project alongside one another, but for whatever reason, most of the roofing companies that solar contractors recommend are somewhat obscure or often very far from your home. A good roofing and solar contractor should be able to coordinate the project to one another’s schedules and plans whether they have worked together or not.
Here are some things to think about when you ask yourself the question; do I need to replace my roof before I go solar? Solar contractors have different methods of installing the stands to which the panels will be attached to. Sometimes these plans include installing the stands while the roof is off of the home. Other plans may include installing an ice and water shield leak barrier under the shingles where the solar panel stands are going to be installed. This plan means that they will be installing the stands right on top of your roof. One final point to think about; what will installing solar do to your roof warranty? Major roofing material manufacturers require certain steps be performed to keep your roofing warranty.
Should you replace your roof before you go solar? Absolutely. Call us for an estimate to replace your roof, and make sure to let us know that you plan on having solar panels installed and we will put you in touch with a local solar contractor so that you can start your planning!