January 15, 2025
January 29, 2025
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Switching to solar energy is one of the smartest and most rewarding upgrades you can make for your home—especially if you’re in a state like Nevada. With abundant sunshine, the potential for energy savings is enormous.
Beyond lowering your energy bills, solar power also helps you embrace a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle
However, solar panels in Reno have very long lives, which makes it reasonable to ask if your roof will hold up for the same length of time. Should you replace your roof before installing solar panels, or risk needing repairs or a full replacement after they’re already in place?
In this guide, our Reno roofing contractors will cover when and why you should replace your roof before going solar, the key steps involved, and tips to make the process as smooth as possible. Let’s dive in.
Solar panels are built to last 25–30 years, but most roofs—especially asphalt shingle roofs—have a lifespan of around 20–30 years. If your existing roof is already nearing the end of its life, installing solar panels now means you’ll likely need to remove and reinstall them later when it’s time to replace the roof. That’s an unnecessary cost you can avoid with a bit of foresight.
Replacing a roof before having solar panels installed comes with several clear benefits:
To determine whether you need a roof replacement, give it a thorough inspection or hire a professional. Key warning signs include curling, cracked or missing shingles, visible leaks, water stains inside your home, and structural issues like sagging.
Taking the time to plan your roof replacement alongside solar panel installation can save you money, time, and frustration.
A successful roof replacement with solar panels requires a coordinated effort. Choose contractors experienced in both roofing and solar installations. A solid team will handle everything from structural assessments to proper installation.
Not all roofing materials are equal when it comes to solar panels in Reno, NV. Asphalt shingles and metal roofs are popular choices because they’re cost-effective and work well with most mounting systems. If you’re looking to boost efficiency further, consider cool roofing materials that reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.
Spring and fall provide the best weather for roofing work and solar installation. If you’re planning for a summer or winter job, be prepared for extra labor charges and longer timelines.
If you already have solar panels and need a new roof, don’t worry—it’s doable with the right steps:
Start with a professional inspection. Your contractor will evaluate the roof’s condition, check the solar panel mounts, and determine whether the panels need to be removed or adjusted.
Removing solar panels temporarily requires care. The solar team will:
When replacing the roofing in Reno, reinforce the structure to handle the weight of the solar panel system. Your roofer should also install mounts designed for solar panels to make the reinstallation easier.
Once the new roof is ready, the solar team will reattach the panels. They’ll test the solar energy system to make sure everything is functioning correctly before reconnecting it to the grid.
If you’re considering replacing roof shingles with solar panels, solar shingles might be worth exploring.
Solar shingles, also known as solar roof tiles, are designed to function as both a roofing material and a source of solar power. Unlike traditional panels, solar shingles are built directly into the roofing system.
Solar shingles are ideal for homeowners who value aesthetics or have smaller roofs where traditional panels might not fit comfortably.
Pros:
Cons:
Homeowners can consider replacing solar panels with roof shingles under specific circumstances. For example, if your roof is already due for replacement, it’s the perfect opportunity to use solar shingles as a roofing material.
The cost of replacing a roof and installing solar panels depends on several factors:
Larger roofs or those with intricate designs, multiple slopes, or steep pitches will be more expensive to replace due to additional labor and materials.
If you already have solar panels installed and need to replace your roof, the process of removing and reinstalling them adds labor costs. The more panels your system has, the greater the time and effort required.
Premium options like metal, tile, or solar shingles are more expensive upfront than standard asphalt shingles; however, they may offer longer lifespans or additional benefits.
All these expenses may have you second-guessing your decision to go solar. However, solar panels qualify for various financial incentives, which can offset the costs of both the solar energy panels and the roof replacement.
Some incentives to look into include:
The Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct a percentage of their solar installation costs from their federal taxes.
A lot of states and municipalities offer rebates or incentives for solar installations. Certain programs also include benefits for energy-efficient roofing materials.
Many solar installation companies and roofers offer discounts for combining both services into a single project. Cost savings aside, completing both projects simultaneously means fewer disruptions to your home and a quicker path to energy savings.
Finally, keep these tips in mind to fine-tune the roof replacement process:
Work with professionals who specialize in both roofing and solar installations. Contractors with experience in both fields will know how to coordinate the projects, ensure the roof is properly reinforced, and integrate solar mounts without compromising the roof’s durability. Take the time to check reviews, ask for references, and confirm their expertise with similar projects.
After the roof replacement and solar panel installation, schedule periodic maintenance checks. Regular inspections by a roofing or solar professional can help identify any issues early, such as loose mounts, roof damage, or dirt buildup on the solar energy panels.
If you already have solar panels installed and need to remove them for roof replacement, consider planning for temporary energy solutions during the project. This might include using backup batteries and generators or relying on the grid for energy needs until your solar system is back online. Discuss options with your solar contractor to minimize disruptions.
Replacing your roof and installing solar panels at the same time might seem like a lot, but it’s worth the long-term benefits. By tackling both projects together, you’ll save time, reduce costs, and create a more sustainable home. With the right planning and a team of experienced professionals, you’ll be on your way to a stronger roof and renewable energy in no time.
Don’t let an aging roof stand in the way of your solar energy goals. Mountain Vista Roof Systems specializes in both roof replacements and solar panel installations. We can take care of the entire process, so you can start enjoying the benefits of renewable energy hassle-free.
Contact us today.
