Replacing Your Roof with Solar Panels? Here’s Everything You Should Know

One of the best things about solar panels is how long they last. Most residential solar panels last for 25-30 years or longer, giving you decades of affordable, clean energy for your home. 

Because of their long lifespan, however, you might need roof work after you’ve installed solar panels for your home. 

At Premo Solar, we’re backed by decades of roofing experience thanks to our sister company, Premo Roofing, and can make this process smooth and cost-effective for your home. 

Here’s everything you need to know about solar panels and roof replacements. 

What Happens If You Need Roof Repairs or Replacement with Solar Panels?

If your roof needs work after you install solar panels, your panels will have to be removed so the roofing work can be completed. For minor repairs, you may only need to remove a few panels. But for a full roof replacement, you will need to remove your entire solar energy system. 

This gives your roofers the access they need to repair or replace your roof, and it also protects your panels, ensuring that they aren’t damaged during the process. 

Here’s a look at the solar panel removal and reinstallation process:

1. Solar Panel Removal –  Our team carefully disconnects and removes your solar panels, storing them safely during the roofing work.
2. Roofing Work – Our roofing experts repair or replace your roof, ensuring it’s a strong and lasting foundation for your solar system.
3. Reinstallation & Testing – Once the roof work is complete, we reinstall your solar panels and test your system to ensure it’s functioning as expected.

Should You Replace Your Roof Before Going Solar?

If you’re thinking about installing solar panels, it’s important to consider your roof’s age and condition first. This is one of the most important steps in ensuring your roof is a good fit for solar panels.  

Ideally, your roof should have at least 15 years of life left before installing solar panels. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s more cost-effective to replace it before adding solar. This avoids the hassle and expense of removing and reinstalling panels later.

Signs You Might Need a New Roof:

Some of the most common signs you need a new roof before going solar include: 

• Your roof is 15+ years old
• Shingles are cracked, curling, or missing
• You notice leaks or water stains in your attic
• Your roofline looks uneven or sagging

If you’re not sure, we can inspect your roof and help you decide whether it’s ready to support solar panels. 

Should You Upgrade Solar Panels During a Roof Replacement?

If your panels are nearing the end of their lifespan when your roof needs replacement, it may make more sense to upgrade your solar system rather than reinstall aging panels. Newer panels are more efficient and can help you generate more power in the same amount of space, increasing your electric bill savings. 

Our team can assess your current solar equipment and recommend the best next step based on your system’s performance, age, and your energy goals.

Why Choose a Team That Does Both Roofing and Solar?

When it comes to replacing your roof with solar panels, experience matters. Not all roofing companies are familiar with solar mounting systems, and not all solar installers understand the complexities of roofing. That’s why working with a team like Premo Solar, backed by our sister company Premo Roofing, makes all the difference. 

Here’s how we make your project smoother:

• Integrated Expertise: Solar and roofing work together from the start
• Streamlined Communication: One point of contact for both projects
  
• Fewer Delays: No scheduling gaps between roofers and solar crews

Stronger Warranty Protection: Reduced risk of damaging your roof or voiding warranties during solar work

Need to replace your roof with solar panels? Call Premo Solar at 831-901-3352 for a free estimate!