Old Roof Solutions
Solar Without Replacing Your Roof
Your roof is getting old. You want solar. Here's how to do both without the headache.
The Rooftop Solar Dilemma
You're interested in solar. But your roof is 10-15 years old, and you're wondering: should I wait until after the roof replacement?
It's a real problem. Install solar now, and you might face $10,000+ in removal and reinstallation costs when the roof needs work. Wait, and you're missing out on savings and incentives.
The $10,000 Problem Nobody Mentions
When Your Roof Needs Replacing:
- Panel removal:$2,000 - $4,000
- Storage during work:$500 - $1,000
- Reinstallation:$3,000 - $5,000
- Permit updates:$500 - $1,000
- Total:$6,000 - $11,000+
This cost often isn't covered by solar warranties or roof warranties. It comes straight out of your pocket.
And during the removal/reinstall process? You're not generating power. That could be 2-4 weeks of lost production.
If your roof is already 10+ years old, you might face this cost within the first decade of owning solar — cutting into the savings you expected.
Your Options With an Aging Roof
Option 1: Replace the Roof First
Pros:
- • Fresh roof under panels
- • No future removal needed
Cons:
- • $15,000-30,000 roof cost now
- • Delays solar savings
- • May not be in budget
Option 2: Install Rooftop Solar Anyway
Pros:
- • Start saving immediately
- • Lower upfront cost
Cons:
- • $10K+ removal cost later
- • Risk of roof damage
- • Warranty complications
Option 3: Ground Mount Solar
Pros:
- • Start saving now
- • Roof completely independent
- • No future removal costs
- • Replace roof whenever you want
- • Often better energy production
Cons:
- • 10-15% higher upfront cost
- • Uses some yard space
- • Need 350+ sq ft of sunny yard
Let's Do the Math
Scenario: Your roof is 12 years old (8 years left)
Rooftop Solar
- System cost: $24,000
- After tax credit: $16,800
- Removal in 8 years: $10,000
- True cost: $26,800
Ground Mount Solar
- System cost: $28,000
- After tax credit: $19,600
- Removal cost: $0
- True cost: $19,600
Ground mount saves $7,200 when you factor in the inevitable roof work.
And that's before considering the 10-25% better energy production from optimal ground mount positioning.
How Old Is Too Old?
Years Old: Go Rooftop
New roof? Rooftop solar makes sense. You have 15-20 years before any concerns.
Years Old: Consider Your Options
Could go either way. If roof is in great shape, rooftop may work. Have it inspected first.
Years Old: Consider Ground Mount
At this age, ground mount often makes more financial sense when you account for future roof work.
Let's Look at Your Situation
We'll assess your roof age, condition, and yard space to recommend the best path forward.
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