Thinking about installing solar panels?
You’re not alone. More homeowners are going solar to cut electricity bills and reduce their carbon footprint.
But here’s a question many forget to ask:
Is your roof ready for solar panels?
Before making a long-term investment in solar energy, it’s essential to make sure the roof underneath can handle it. Solar panels last 25–30 years. Will your roof last that long?
Let’s dig into the reasons why a re-roof might be necessary before you go solar—and how to make the smartest decision.
Why Roof Condition Matters
Solar panels aren’t light.
They stay put for decades.
Removing and reinstalling them isn’t cheap.
Ask yourself:
How old is your roof?
Has it been repaired recently?
Are there signs of wear—like curling shingles or small leaks?
Installing panels on a weak roof is like building a house on cracked foundations.
Key risks of ignoring your roof:
Higher costs later: Removing panels to fix the roof in 5 years can cost £1,000–£2,500.
Water damage: Existing weak spots may worsen under the weight of panels.
Structural issues: Some roofs simply can’t support the load.
Example:
A couple in Norwich installed solar panels in 2020 without checking the roof’s condition. Within two years, they noticed water seeping into the attic. Turns out the roof decking was rotting. The panels had to be taken down for a full roof replacement. Cost? Nearly £7,000, plus lost solar output during repairs.
How Long Should a Roof Last?
Roof life expectancy depends on the material:
Asphalt shingles: 15–25 years
Clay tiles: 40–50 years
Slate: 60–100 years
Metal roofs: 40–70 years
Flat roofs (felt or membrane): 10–30 years
If your roof has fewer than 10 years left, a re-roof is often the better move before installing panels.
Even if it has 10–15 years, consider this:
Do you want to pay twice for installation—once now, and again when the roof fails?
What Does Re-Roofing Involve?
Re-roofing doesn’t always mean a full replacement.
You have options:
Full tear-off: Removes everything down to the decking. Best for long-term durability.
Partial re-roof: Fixes only the section where panels will go. Might be enough if the rest of the roof is solid.
Costs vary by material and location. In the UK:
Asphalt re-roof: £4,000–£7,000
Tile re-roof: £6,000–£12,000
Flat roof replacement: £1,500–£4,000
Investing now could save more later—especially if you’re planning to stay in your home for a decade or longer.
Benefits of Re-Roofing Before Solar
Still on the fence?
Here’s why many homeowners decide to re-roof first.
1. Avoid Double Labour Costs
Removing panels later costs both time and money.
Most solar companies charge £100–£250 per panel for removal and reinstallation. For a typical 16-panel system, that’s up to £4,000—just to access the roof.
2. Protect Your Investment
Solar panels are tough—but only as tough as what’s underneath.
A new roof gives peace of mind. It supports the system properly and prevents weather-related issues.
3. Better Warranties
Roofers often offer 20–30 year warranties on new roofs.
Solar installers may void panel warranties if they’re installed on an unstable or worn-out roof. Don’t risk it.
4. Improved Efficiency
New roofing materials can improve energy efficiency.
For example:
Cool roofs reflect sunlight, reducing heat build-up.
Metal roofs pair extremely well with solar panels, even increasing panel performance in hot months.
When You Don’t Need a Re-Roof
Not every homeowner needs to re-roof before going solar.
Sometimes, your current roof is good to go.
Here’s when you can probably skip it:
Your roof is less than 10 years old and shows no signs of wear.
You have a durable roofing material like slate or metal.
A recent roof inspection confirms it’s structurally sound.
Your solar installer and roofer both sign off that no issues are likely for 20+ years.
Pro tip:
Even if re-roofing isn’t needed now, keep records of the inspection and any repairs done. It may come in handy for warranty claims later.
What Do Experts Recommend?
Most solar professionals advise to book a full roof assessment first.
Some companies even offer roof inspection as part of the solar consultation.
Ask your installer:
How long will the solar panel warranty last?
Do you partner with a roofing company?
Will panel mounting void any part of my roof warranty?
Better yet:
Bring in a qualified roofing contractor for a second opinion. Make sure they understand solar installation requirements.
If both the roofer and installer give the green light, you’re in the clear.
Financial Considerations
Worried about the cost of re-roofing?
It’s a valid concern. But consider:
Many homeowners finance roof and solar upgrades together.
Some UK schemes, like the ECO4 grant or Home Upgrade Grant, may cover part of the cost.
Spreading the cost across a solar loan makes monthly payments manageable—and you save on electricity.
Real-world example:
A homeowner in Bristol bundled a £6,500 re-roof with a £9,000 solar installation under a green home improvement loan. Their monthly loan cost is about £145, but they now save £80/month on energy bills—expected to rise over time.
Final Checklist: Are You Roof-Ready?
Before installing solar, check the following:
✅ Roof age: Under 10–15 years
✅ No signs of damage, sagging, or leaks
✅ Material compatible with solar mounting
✅ Professional inspection completed
✅ Installer confirms long-term durability
If you answer no to any of the above, it’s worth investigating a re-roof now.
Think Long Term
Going solar is a big commitment.
So is your roof.
Both should last decades. Why risk needing major work just a few years in?
Ask yourself:
Would you rather pay a little more now—or a lot more later?
By re-roofing before solar installation, you protect your home, your investment, and your peace of mind.
