Solar vs. Roofing Issues: What You Need to Know
š Summary Notes
This post spotlights the most overlookedābut criticalāpart of any solar installation: your roof. From aging shingles to unsupported tile jobs, weāve seen the heartbreak of beautiful solar arrays installed on bad foundationsāonly to be ripped up a few years later for re-roofing.
Whether you're planning a residential setup or managing a commercial retrofit, this guide covers what to check, who to involve, and how to make your roof + solar strategy rock solid from day one.
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ā”Key Themes
š¹ Your Roof Is the Foundation of Your Solar System
A solar array is a 20ā30 year investment. If your roof isnāt built to last that long, youāre setting yourself up for:
šø Costly removal + reinstallation
š§ Leaks from poor waterproofing
š Voided warranties if roofing isnāt up to par
Bottom line? A failing roof = failing solar. Plan ahead, not in hindsight.
š¹ Before You Install: 4 Essential Roof Checks
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Roof Age: If itās over 10ā12 years old, consider replacement first
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Material Type: Each surface (asphalt, tile, metal, flat) needs the right gear
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Structural Integrity: A quick load check can prevent major regrets
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Flashing + Waterproofing: Always ask how penetrations will be sealed
š” Pro Tip: Your installer should understand roofingāor partner with someone who does. Solar Evol coordinates both in-house.
š¹ Common Roof Scenarios + Smart Solutions
š ļø Aging Asphalt (15+ years): Re-roof now, install once = long-term savings
šļø Tile Roofs: Get tile-specific mounting and an experienced crew
šļø Standing Seam Metal: Gold standardāno penetrations, long lifespan
š¢ Flat Roofs: Use ballasted systems with wind deflectors and drainage mapping
š” Solar Evol Tip: Ask if your racking is UL 2703/2702 certified for water resistanceāespecially on sloped or older roofs.
š¹ Roofing Warranties and Solar: Donāt Get Burned
Your roof warranty can be voided if:
ā Your installer isnāt certified for roofing work
ā Non-approved hardware is used
ā You donāt get documentation preserving your coverage
āļø Ask about bundled warranties that combine roofing + solar (we offer them on qualifying installs).
ā”Discussion Questions
š¬ How old is your roofāand does it align with your solar investment timeline?
š¬ Did your installer ask about your roofing material or warranty terms?
š¬ Would you consider a bundled roof + solar solution for peace of mind?
š¬ How can solar providers better educate clients on roofing risks before install?
ā”Action Steps Before You Go Solar
š
Check your roofās age and condition
š§± Confirm compatibility of your roof type with solar hardware
š Ask how flashing, waterproofing, and mounting will be handled
š Review how solar impacts your existing roof warranty
š¤ Get a professional roof assessment if unsure
ā”Reflection
Solar panels can power your home.
But only if your roof can support the journey.
Think of it this way: you wouldnāt build a skyscraper on a cracked foundation.
Donāt bolt energy freedom to a failing roof.
With the right prep, you can make sure your system and your structure rise togetherāand stay strong for decades.
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