If you are considering solar panels and need a new roof, you would ideally install them at the same time. However, both a new roof and solar panels can be large investments, so many people choose to install a roof first and add solar panels later. If you are thinking about adding solar panels at a later date, these are some of the things you should consider when having your roof installed.
Make Sure Your Roof Can Handle The Load
Depending on how many solar panels you intend to install, installation can greatly increase the weight of your roof. It's important that your roof can support its own weight, the weight of the panels, and any snow or ice if you live in a cold area.
Choose A Material That Is Easy To Mount Solar Panels To
Ceramic and slate tiles can break or be damaged while installing solar panels. To prevent this, they may have to be removed during the installation process, depending on the setup of your roof. Materials such as composite shingles and metal roofing are sturdy enough to handle solar panel installation without extra work or damage.
Get a Warranty That Will Extend Through The Length Of Your Solar Panels' Warranty
Roofing warranties vary in length depending on your contractor and the materials they use. Material warranties may vary from ten to fifty years, and workmanship warranties also have a wide range. Ideally, you will want your roof to be under warranty for as long as your solar panels are under warranty. For example, if your solar panels have a fifteen-year warranty, and you plan to install them five years after you install your roof, you will want to make sure your roof has a twenty-year warranty.
It's also important to know whether choosing another company to install your solar panels will void your contractor's warranty.
Consider Installing Brackets At The Same Time As The Roof
Even if you can't afford the actual panels, discuss installing the brackets for the panels at the same time as your roof. This can be risky if you change your mind about which panels you want to install, but it can also save you time and money when you finally install the panels.
If you are considering solar panels in the future, you should let your roofing contractor know. They will be able to give you advice about the best way to proceed. You can reach out to one like Par One Construction, Inc. for more information.
