5 Things to Consider When Replacing a Solar Panelled Roof

Roof replacement is an expensive job but if you are considering replacing a solar panelled roof be prepared for that cost to escalate. Having solar panels already on your roof adds considerably to the expense of getting a new roof for your home.

If you are considering replacing a solar panelled roof, you’ll need to take into consideration the additional work involved in undergoing a roof replacement.

We get asked a lot of questions from customers who need advice on replacing a solar panelled roof. Here we have done our best to answer the most common questions we get asked. There are also some things to look out for if you are about to embark on such a roof replacement project.

1. Is it necessary to remove the solar panels to replace a solar-panelled roof?

Unfortunately there is no other alternative. Solar panels have to be removed in order to replace a roof! The loss of  your renewable energy throughout the duration of your roof replacement shouldn’t be a problem unless of course you are totally reliant on generating your own energy off grid.

2. Will my roofer remove my solar panels?

You should always try to engage a roofing contractor who is capable of removing and reinstating the solar panels for you. Steer clear of roofers who don’t have the training or skill to competently handle solar panel removal.

Engaging separate contractors to deal with your solar panel removal and roofing project can cause problems. Rarely will they work well together and should you have a warranty issue at a later date you are likely to find neither wanting to take responsibility.

Your roof replacement will be a lot less stressful for having one skilled and competent contractor dealing with the entire project.

3. How long will it take to remove my solar panels?

Removing a solar PV system will probably take a day – depending on the number of panels. It is likely to take a further day to reinstate once your roof replacement project is complete. So for an average size solar PV system, expect it to add two days to your project.

4. Can I remove solar panels myself?

You should never attempt to remove and re-instate solar panels yourself. Solar PV panels need to be decommissioned and recommissioned by a competent person with experience in carrying out this type of work.

5. Will changing the roof materials add cost to my new roof?

When replacing your roof, you may be be thinking of installing new roof material. Changing roofing materials will incur more cost if the original bracketry system is no suitable and cannot be reused.

A good roofing contractor with expertise in solar panel removal be able to advise on the feasibility of reusing your existing mounting system. Ensure that the cost of supplying replacement bracket and mounting rails has been taken in to account in any quotations you receive for your new roof. That way you won’t get any nasty surprises part way through your roof replacement project.

6. Should I replace my roof before installing solar panels?

If you have had any ongoing roof issues or it looks likely major roof repairs will be needed then you seriously need to consider replacing your roof before installing solar panels. If your roof is likely to need any major roof repairs in the next 5-10 years then it may be wise to replace the roof before installing solar panels. If you haven’t already had solar panels installed but are thinking of doing so, seek the advice of an experienced roofing contractor. They will be able to determine whether you are likely to need any major roof repairs in the near future.

Removing your solar panels to carry out roof replacement at a later date can be costly. For further insight please take a look at ‘The hidden on-going costs’ and ‘How to reduce the hidden costs’ sections of our Solar PV and Battery Storage Pricing Guide.