Do You Really Need to Replace Your Roof Before Installing Solar Panels in Texas?
Texas ranks third nationally in electricity generated from small-scale rooftop solar panels, but it’s still lagging on residential installations on a per-capita basis. That may not be the case for much longer, as fears of power outages from an outdated and overstressed grid are making solar a more attractive feature for homeowners in The Woodlands, Houston and across Texas.
For homeowners looking to take advantage of the region’s abundant sunshine, one question often comes up early on: Do you need to replace your roof before installing solar panels? The honest answer is, it depends.
At Perkins Roofing, we’ve worked with many homeowners who are eager to go solar but aren’t sure if their current roof is up to the task.
What Is the Age and Condition of Your Roof?
The first thing to consider is how old your roof is. Most asphalt shingle roofs in Texas last between 15 and 25 years, depending on weather exposure and materials. If your roof is:
- 10 years old or less and in good condition, it’s likely fine for solar panel installation.
- 10–15 years old, you should schedule an inspection to see how much life is left.
- 15+ years old or showing signs of wear, it’s often better to replace it before installing solar panels.
Solar panels typically last 25–30 years. If your roof is already halfway through its lifespan or has storm-related wear, installing solar may just mean you’ll have to uninstall and reinstall the panels in the next 5–10 years, which can be costly.
Signs Your Roof Should Be Replaced First
Even if your roof isn’t particularly old, storm damage or poor condition can make it unfit for solar installation. You may want to consider replacement first if you notice:
- Missing or curling shingles
- Granule loss or bald patches on shingles
- Leaks or water damage inside the attic
- Sagging or structural concerns
- Hail or storm damage, even if minor
Solar panels add weight and require secure attachment points, so the roof beneath them needs to be structurally sound and weather-tight for decades to come.
What Happens If You Replace Your Roof After Going Solar?
If you decide to install solar panels now and your roof needs replacement in the next 5–10 years, be prepared for a multi-step and often expensive process.
- Panel Removal: Your solar company or a qualified third party will need to carefully remove the panels, mounting brackets and electrical components.
- Roof Replacement: Your roofing contractor (like Perkins Roofing) replaces your roof as normal, working around any specialized penetrations or mounts.
- Reinstallation: Once the new roof is complete, the solar provider returns to reinstall the system, test connections and ensure functionality.
In The Woodlands, this can easily cost $1,500–$6,000 or more, depending on the size and complexity of your system.
Replacement also interrupts your solar energy usage and may void parts of your warranty if not done by certified professionals.
Should You Coordinate Roofing and Solar Installations?
Absolutely. The best time to go solar is immediately after a new roof installation. This approach allows you to:
- Avoid extra labor and removal costs
- Ensure mounting systems integrate seamlessly with new materials
- Align warranties on both the roof and the panels for peace of mind
At Perkins Roofing, we can coordinate with solar providers on the roofing timeline and prepare the structure for installation, making it easy for you to transition to solar without surprises down the road.
Roofing Material and Solar Panel Compatibility
Not all roofing materials work equally well with solar panels. Some important considerations include:
- Asphalt shingles: One of the easiest and most common roofing types to install panels on.
- Metal roofs: Long-lasting and solar-compatible, especially standing seam styles.
- Tile roofs: Can work, but installation is more complex and may require extra hardware or underlayment replacement.
If you’re planning a roof replacement before going solar, now is the time to choose a material that supports your long-term goals.
Texas-Specific Considerations
In Texas, extreme heat, hail and wind are all real threats to roofing systems. That means your roof takes a beating and it also means solar panels must be installed in a way that won’t compromise your roof’s integrity during storms. A solid, newer roof reduces the risk of weather-related failures after solar installation and helps you meet energy goals with confidence.
Make the Smart Call Before You Go Solar in The Woodlands
Switching to solar is a smart investment, but it only works if your roof can support it. At Perkins Roofing, we provide thorough inspections, honest assessments and high-quality roof replacements in The Woodlands designed to last just as long, if not longer, than your solar panels.
Contact us at Perkins Roofing today by calling (832) 702-0201 to schedule your roof inspection or request a free estimate.
