Solar companies include new roofs because the roof is the foundation of the whole solar system. Panels last 25 years or more, so the roof under them has to last that long too. Including a new roof keeps the project simple, protects the system and lets more Massachusetts homes go solar.
If you've seen ads for a new roof with solar, you might be wondering what's in it for the solar company. It's a fair question. Mark has spent over 12 years in solar, and here's the inside look at why this is so common.
1. The roof has to outlast the panels
Solar panels are built for the long haul. A roof with 5 or 10 years left won't keep up.
When an old roof fails under solar panels, the panels have to come off before any roof work can start. Starting with a new roof means the two can go the distance together.
2. Taking panels off later is a hassle for everyone
Removing and putting back solar panels takes a crew, time and money. It can leave a home without solar for weeks. Solar companies would much rather get it right the first time than deal with a homeowner needing a new roof after solar is installed.
3. Many solar installers won't go on an old roof
Before panels go up, the roof gets checked. If it's too old or in rough shape, many installers simply won't put solar on it.
In the past, that meant the homeowner had to stop, find a roofer, pay for a roof, then start the solar process over. Including the roof keeps the project moving.
4. It lets more homes go solar
A lot of Massachusetts homes have roofs that are 15, 20 or more years old. Without a roof option, many of those homeowners would never go solar. Including a new roof opens the door for them.
5. One project is easier than two
When the roof and solar are planned together, the work happens in the right order with one plan. The roof goes on, then the panels go up right after. No juggling two companies on two schedules.
6. A leak under panels is a bigger problem
Fixing a leak on an open roof is simple. Fixing one under a row of solar panels is not.
A new roof lowers the chance of leaks for years to come. That's good for the homeowner and the solar company, and it's a big part of why solar panels rarely cause roof leaks on a solid roof.
Does your roof need replacing?
Tell Mark about your roof. He'll tell you if your home qualifies for a new roof when you go solar, with no upfront cost.
Talk to MarkDoes every home get a new roof with solar?
No. A new roof only makes sense if yours needs it.
If your roof is newer and in good shape, it can usually handle solar just fine. Roof age and condition are what decide whether to replace your roof before going solar.
What should you look for?
A good roof and solar offer is clear about what's included, who does the roof, who does the solar and the order of the work. If someone is vague about any of that, ask questions until it's clear. That's true for any offer to get a new roof with solar panels in Massachusetts.
Wondering if your roof qualifies?
Tell Mark about your roof. He'll tell you if a new roof makes sense for your home, with no upfront cost.
Talk to MarkFAQs About Solar Companies and New Roofs
Why do solar companies offer new roofs?
Because solar panels last 25 years or more, and the roof under them needs to last that long too. Including a new roof keeps the project simple and protects the solar system for its whole life.
Is a new roof with solar a real thing?
Yes. Many solar companies include a new roof for homes that need one. For Massachusetts homes that qualify, it comes with no upfront cost.
Will every home get a new roof with solar?
No. Only homes whose roofs need replacing. If your roof is newer and in good shape, it can usually handle solar as is.
Does the solar company do the roof itself?
It depends on the company. Mark works with a trusted local roofing partner in Massachusetts, so the roof is done by roofers and the solar by solar crews.
About Mark Featherstone
Mark has been in solar for over 12 years, working at some of the biggest solar companies in the country, before co-founding Your World Solutions. His goal is simple: help homeowners get into solar deals that actually work for them, and make sure they understand every part of it before they sign.
This article is for general informational purposes only. Every home and roof is different, and roof condition, timelines, costs and what's included vary by home and aren't guaranteed. No upfront cost applies to homes that qualify. Have a qualified roofer inspect your roof before making a decision.