Guide to Roofing with Solar – Better Earth

Solar & Reroofing

Better Earth collaborates with vetted and preferred local roofers to assist you with any roofing work required for the installation of your system. We can provide you with competitive roofing bids from high-quality roof installers.

Determining If a Re Roof is Needed

Before embarking on a solar panel installation, it's crucial to assess whether your roof needs replacement.

Here are signs that indicate it might be time for a new roof:

Age of Your Roof: Consider the age of your roof, especially if it's approaching 20-25 years.

Visible Damage: Look for missing or curling shingles, cracks, bald spots, or other signs of wear.

Leaks: Water stains or dripping water indicate a compromised roof.

Moss or Algae Growth: Indicates moisture retention, leading to potential damage.

Sagging Roof: A structural issue requiring immediate attention.

Increased Energy Bills: Poorly insulated or deteriorating roofs can impact energy efficiency.

Sunlight Through the Attic: Structural problems or missing shingles.

Granule Buildup in Gutters: Weakened protection against the elements.

Cracks and Blisters: Decreased effectiveness in weather protection.

Roofing Materials Issues: Different materials may show specific warning signs.

Poor Roof Ventilation: Check for signs of inadequate attic ventilation.

Frequent Repairs: Constant repairs may indicate the need for a replacement.

Our site survey team will assess the condition of your roof to determine if it is suitable for installing the solar system. If it is not, we’ll provide you with some roofing options.

Partial ReRoof’s

In certain situations, opting for a partial reroof can be a cost-effective solution instead of redoing the entire roof. A partial reroof involves replacing the roof only in the area where the solar system will be installed. This is a viable option for homeowners who have a Spanish clay tile roof or an old shingle roof that is in poor condition.

Here are key considerations:

Matching Materials: Difficulty in finding identical materials may impact the roof's appearance.

Cost Savings: While cost-effective, weigh savings against potential future repairs or full replacement.

Underlying Issues: Assess the condition of the structure and insulation beneath the partial reroof.

Aesthetic Considerations: Changes in appearance may affect curb appeal and resale value.

Future Maintenance: Older portions may require more frequent maintenance, especially if the rest of the roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.

If your roof is still in good condition, partial reroofing could be a reasonable solution. However, if it's reaching the end of its life or has widespread damage, a full roof replacement is often recommended for long-term integrity and successful solar panel installation.

Paying For The Roof

If you are interested in financing your solar system through Better Earth, you have the option to include the cost of the roof in your solar system financing. This option is available only if you choose one of Better Earth's preferred roofers.

If financed with Better Earth, the total cost of the roof and solar system must be lower than the approved financing amount. Each financier has a maximum percentage of the total financing cost that can be allocated to non-solar expenses. Therefore, you cannot finance a roof that costs more than the solar system itself.

Alternatively, if you prefer to pay for the roof separately, you can do so by excluding the cost of the roof from the financing.

Handling Reroof on Your Own

If you decide to handle the reroof on your own or use your own roofer, you won't be able to include the roofing costs in your financing. Only by using one of Better Earth’s preferred roofers can you include the cost of the roof in your financing.

Additionally, you'll need to provide proof that the roof inspection has passed and submit pictures of the new roof before scheduling the solar installation.

Tax Credits and Reroofing

Whether you can claim a tax credit for your reroofing project depends on various factors. It is recommended to consult with your tax professional to determine how much you are able to claim.

FAQ

Can I Do a Reroof After the Solar Installation?

Yes, you can. The cost of removing or reinstalling an existing solar system depends on the system's size and whether you plan to reinstall it after removal. The cost is $0.40 per watt to uninstall panels, and an additional $0.40 per watt to reinstall them.

For example, if you want a system removed and then reinstalled, the cost is $0.80 per watt. For a 6,000 watt system, the cost for both uninstalling and reinstalling would be $0.80 per watt * 6,000 watts, which equals $4,800.

Am I Able to Move Forward Without a Reroof?

If Better Earth determines that a reroof is necessary, but it is not urgently needed, you may have the option to sign a Roof Waiver. By signing this waiver, you waive the roof warranty outlined in the agreement, which allows you to proceed with the solar installation without doing a reroof.

Does Solar Void my Roof Warranty?

Solar panel installations can impact your roof warranty, but the extent of the impact depends on various factors, including the type of roof warranty you have and the installation process. Better Earth backs each home with a complimentary 10-year roof insurance policy.

Most roofing materials have a manufacturer's warranty, which can range from 20 to 50 years or more. Installing solar panels on your roof can impact this warranty, with varying terms depending on the manufacturer. Some manufacturers may void the warranty if solar panels are installed, while others may only void it in the area where the panels are installed. Some may provide guidelines for installing solar panels without voiding the warranty.

If this is one of your concerns, we recommend contacting your roofer to confirm the details of their roof warranty if you have solar installed.