Securing Your Solar Investment: Roof Considerations for Solar Panels in Orlando and Central Florida

In recent years, the sight of homes with solar panels has become increasingly common, reflecting a growing trend towards eco-friendly living and energy savings. If you're a homeowner in Orlando or Central Florida considering joining the solar movement, it's crucial to look beyond the immediate benefits and consider the long-term compatibility of your roofing system with solar panel installation.

While the allure of green initiatives, energy savings, and protection against rising power costs may have prompted your interest in solar panels, it's essential to assess your roofing system's viability for this investment. The type and lifespan of your roof can significantly impact the overall success and cost-effectiveness of your solar venture.

In Florida, where the average architectural shingle roof lasts about 15 years, it's a pivotal factor to consider. If your roof is older than 5 years, it's time to ask yourself a crucial question: is it worth installing solar panels?

Many homeowners overlook the importance of roof replacement when investing in solar panels. Some solar companies may even install panels on roofs with less than 5 years of remaining life. Here at Honest Abe Roofing Orlando, we see it on a daily basis. Imagine installing a solar PV system with 30 panels, investing thousands of dollars, only to find out that your roof needs replacement in just seven years.

Fast forward to year 7, when it's time for a roof replacement. The scenario becomes less than ideal – removing and reinstalling solar panels incurs an additional cost. As of January 2024, the average cost of resetting a solar panel ranges between $200 and $300 per panel. For a 30-panel system, this could amount to an unexpected expense of $6000 to $9000, on top of the roof replacement cost. You do not get anything in return except a detach and reset.

It's essential to note that your roof cannot be replaced without detaching the solar panels, and some municipalities are starting to require permits for this process. Looking ahead, the costs of detachment and reset are not expected to decrease; in fact, they have increased by 20% in the past 12 months.

If you're eager to invest in solar but have a limited timeframe, negotiate with your sales representative for one complimentary detachment and reset. For those with roofs having 5 years or less of useful life-span left, it's advisable to wait or replace the roofing system before installing solar panels.

For homeowners in their forever home, considering a more durable roofing solution, such as a standing-seam metal roof, is a wise move. Unlike traditional asphalt shingle roofs, these systems don't require replacement every 15 years and offer a more permanent solution for solar panel attachment. While permanent roofing solutions might require more of an upfront investment, it can save you thousands of dollars in the future. Undoubtedly, your exploration of solar panels is driven by a profound desire to secure substantial savings in the future.

Considering the inevitability of inflation, it's crucial to ponder the future costs of detachment and reset. A good approach includes negotiating a complimentary detachment and reset with your solar PV system purchase and investing in a roofing system that doesn't demand frequent replacements.

In conclusion, while the prevalence of solar panels in homes is set to increase, your roofing system is the foundation for a successful solar PV system. Thorough research and questioning are essential before making a substantial investment. For more information on the best roofing systems for solar panels, contact Honest Abe Roofing Orlando. We're here to answer all your questions and guide you through the roof replacement process. Call us at 407-887-7663 or book a complimentary 16-point roofing inspection today.