Should you get a new roof before installing solar panels? Not necessarily, but because solar panels are built to produce power for 25 to 30 years or more, the roof they are mounted on needs to be up to the task. When you invest in a solar energy system, you are making a commitment to clean energy and financial savings that will last for decades. But there is a crucial factor that sometimes gets overlooked in the excitement of going solar: what’s happening underneath the panels? A good roof is essential to having a good solar experience.
Positive Energy Solar has teamed up with the premier local experts at McPartlon Roofing—Northern New Mexico’s most trusted roofer since 1985—to offer a fully coordinated roof replacement service with solar installation.
The Ideal Timeline: When to Coordinate New Roofing and Solar
The absolute best time to coordinate a roof replacement with a solar installation is right before your solar panels are installed. By installing a brand-new roof and solar panels at the same time, you synchronize the lifespans of both investments. This prevents additional costs and lost solar production from having to remove your solar panels for reroofing a few years down the line just to replace an aging roof.
The Solar Consultation: We Look Out for You & Your Roof
If you are considering solar but aren’t sure about the state of your roof, don’t worry! You don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out.
During your initial solar consultation, the team at Positive Energy Solar will conduct a thorough site evaluation. While our specialty is engineering high-performance solar arrays—not roofing—our advisors and site assessors are trained to look for basic signs of roof wear and tear. We check for obvious red flags like missing shingles, pooling water on flat roofs, sagging rooflines, or advanced age.
If your roof is in great shape, we’ll move ahead if you’re ready. If we notice potential issues, we will pause and recommend an expert evaluation from a trusted partner like McPartlon Roofing before any panels are mounted, to ensure your investment is protected. That’s our promise.
Frequently Asked Questions About New Roofing and Solar Installation
Q: Do I need a completely new roof before installing solar?
A: Not necessarily! If your current roof has at least 10 to 15 years of solid life remaining, it is generally perfectly fine to install solar. Keep in mind that solar panels actually protect the portion of the roof they cover from harsh UV rays and severe weather, slightly extending the life of those materials.
Q: What if my roof only needs minor repairs?
A: That is where expert collaboration comes in. A full roof replacement isn’t always required to install solar panels. The craftsmen at McPartlon Roofing can evaluate your roof to determine if localized repairs, minor restorations, or a proactive maintenance plan will give your roof the strength it needs to support solar panels for longevity.
Q: Will installing solar panels cause my new roof to leak?
A: When installed by qualified professionals, absolutely not. Positive Energy Solar uses top-tier, specialized mounting hardware for varying roof types, with industry-leading weatherproofing and flashing techniques. Having decades of experience with New Mexico’s roofing types (including flat TPO or tar and gravel) we have the expertise and experience to know how to preserve your roof while installing solar panels. When combined with a sturdy roof, your home is completely protected against the elements.
Q: Does adding solar to my new roof void the warranty?
A: Generally, no. When you work with certified professionals, the installation is designed to integrate seamlessly without compromising your roof’s integrity. However, it is always a best practice to consult with your roofing contractor for the terms of their warranty. By partnering directly with McPartlon Roofing, we ensure that all roofing warranties remain intact and that the installation methods meet their rigorous standards.
Q: How long does it take to get a new roof? What about the timeline for solar installation?
A: For an average home in Northern New Mexico, a new roof installation typically takes three to five days to complete. The timeline depends on the scale and architectural complexity of the property, with larger projects requiring additional time. For homes subject to Santa Fe’s historic preservation rules, the entire process can stretch to several months due to the lengthy pre-permit approval phase required by the city.
A solar project in Santa Fe takes between 10-12 weeks from signed agreements to installation, mostly due to permitting and utility interconnection approval. This planning time is the perfect opportunity to have your roof replaced, repaired or restored. The solar panel installation itself is typically completed in one to two days, depending on complexity.
Ready to get started? If you are thinking about going solar, or if you know your roof needs attention, contact Positive Energy Solar or McPartlon Roofing today. Together, we’ll ensure your home is protected from the top down and you’ll get a positive experience throughout.
