So You Have A Solar System and Are Getting A New Roof?
So, you’ve finally decided it’s time to give your home’s roof the TLC it deserves. But wait! What about those shiny, sun-kissing solar panels you’ve got up there? As a seasoned solar installer, we’re here to guide you through the ins and outs of getting a roof replacement with an existing solar system. So, grab a cup of coffee, settle into your comfiest chair, and let’s get to it.
Do You Need To Dismantle The Solar System if Your Roof is Being Repaired or Replaced?
First things first, let’s address the elephant on your roof – those marvelous solar panels. Now, you might be thinking, “Do I need to dismantle these bad boys before the roofers start swinging their hammers?” The short answer? Not necessarily. The slightly longer, more informative answer? It depends, but very likely.
If the area of roof being repaired or replaced does not interfere with the location of the solar system, then it most likely does not need to be removed. However, if the solar panels are over the area of roof being replaced or repaired, the panels in question will need to come off. Sometimes this looks like only 2 or 3 panels, other times (as in the case with a full reroof) the entire system will need to be temporarily dismantled in order for the roofers to perform the work.
Let’s Talk About Warranties
Most solar installations include a workmanship warranty of some sort, and very often baked into the warranty is a clause that states if anyone other than that original installer works on the solar system the warranty is void. With that in mind, if you know who originally installed your solar system it’s best to start by contacting them to see what yours entails, and ask if they offer services to remove and reinstall the solar panels.
Let’s say you bought it already installed and it didn’t come with any paperwork, or the company you originally worked with isn’t around any longer… what then? Give us a call at 720-465-9073. We have an entire department dedicated to this type of work and can help you.
How Do You Find A Roofer You Can Trust?
Here at Klick Solar, we’ve worked with countless roofers across Colorado and Oregon – vetting their work and communication along the way. We’ve developed a list of preferred contractors that we would be happy to pass along to you. If you are going through an insurance claim, your insurance company will also be able to provide you with reputable contacts in the area you can trust.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove Solar Panels?
Now, before you panic and start mentally calculating the cost of reinstallation, take solace in the fact that most reputable solar installers (yours truly included) offer services to safely remove and re-install your panels with the care and precision they deserve. In addition, many cases we see in our Colorado chapter fall underneath an insurance claim. If that is the case, most insurance companies will include the cost of labor for deinstall and reinstall underneath the hail claim.
Coordinating the Roof with the Solar System
With roofing materials selected and installation underway, it’s time to address another crucial aspect of the roof replacement process – ensuring compatibility with your solar system. It is important to let your solar installer know what type of shingles you plan to use to ensure that they can be installed on safely. During the planning and construction phases, your solar installer will work closely with your roofing contractor to ensure seamless integration of your solar panels with the new roof.
Getting Your Solar System Back Up and Running
Once the new roof is in place and your solar panels are safely nestled atop their newfound perch, it’s time for the pièce de résistance – reconnecting your solar system to the grid. Cue the triumphant music and celebratory high-fives, because you, my friend, are officially back in the renewable energy game.
Of course, no roof replacement would be complete without a thorough inspection to ensure everything is up to snuff. Your solar installer and city jurisdiction will both meticulously inspect the reinstalled panels, checking for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Depending on the laws within your city, either one or multiple inspections will be required through the process. Please keep in mind that city jurisdictions very rarely communicate inspection dates or arrival timelines to anyone, including the you homeowner or the installer. That being said, we will always communicate with you if we are given any information.
And that’s that!
With your trusty solar installer by your side, navigating the murky waters of roof replacements with an existing solar system is a breeze. As you gaze upon your newly revamped roof, basking in the warm glow of your solar panels, remember this – behind every great roof replacement is a team of dedicated professionals working tirelessly to ensure your home remains safe, secure, and oh-so-solar-powered.
