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Mounting Solar Panels on a Shingle Roof: How to Do It Without Damaging Your Home
Mounting solar panels on a shingle roof is a smart move for energy savings—but only if it’s done right. The process typically involves attaching racking systems directly to the roof structure (rafters) using lag bolts, sealed with flashing to prevent leaks. When done correctly, this creates a watertight, structurally sound system that distributes the weight of the panels without compromising your shingles.
But here’s the problem: not all solar installers understand roofing.
We recently inspected a client’s home that had multiple leaks throughout. The culprit? A solar company that improperly installed panels without regard for the roofing system. The damage was so extensive, the entire roof had to be replaced.
Have a roofing company check your roof to see how long your shingle will last so that way you don’t run into the problem of mounting solar panels and having to remove them five years later to replace the roof.
Have a licensed roofing company inspect the roof after the solar company leaves. This will give you a chance to catch any visible damage before the rain gets into your house and damages more.
Yes, solar panels can be installed on a shingle roof. The installation process involves mounting racks securely to the roof while ensuring weather resistance to prevent leaks.
Drilling into shingles is sometimes necessary for solar panel installation, but professional installers use flashing and sealants to maintain the roof’s integrity and prevent water damage.
Solar panels are difficult to install on slate or wooden shake roofs due to their fragility. Flat roofs may require specialized mounting systems for optimal sun exposure.
Metal roofs, especially standing seam metal roofs, are ideal for solar panels because they allow for a non-penetrative mounting system. Shingle roofs are also compatible, but installation requires drilling and additional waterproofing measures.
Some manufacturers’ warranties and warranties from your roofing company will have fine print in their warranties that talks about how if someone else walks on the roof, it could void the warranty. This is something you will need to be aware of. Be sure to read the fine print of the warranty and ask your roofing contractor to write you a waiver noting the fact that they will inspect the roof after the fact and still warranty it.
Depending on the type of shingle, when it was installed, and how well the installation process was will determine the condition of your roof. You might have a 25-year shingle but if your ventilation in the attic isn’t working or you haven’t properly maintained the roof, then you will probably have a roof that reaches its end at year 15.
Whether before or after you have mounted solar panels on your roof, Chase Roofing will provide you with a free inspection and give you advice from a professional roofer. What do you have to lose? We guarantee you we will leave you well informed to make the decision that is best for you.
1150 SW 10th Ave #201, Pompano Beach, FL 33069, United States
40415 Chancey Rd STE 103, Zephyrhills, FL 33542
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(954) 680-8588
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(813) 782-9400
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7 Insurance Discounts Every Homeowner Needs to Know