How do you replace a roof that has solar panels on it?
The panels and racking are removed and stored, the roof is replaced, and the system is reinstalled and tested. The main risk is the solar warranty, since many installers and manufacturers require certified or approved crews to handle the removal and reset. Check your solar warranty terms first, and expect the detach and reset to be priced separately from the roof.
The warranty is the part to sort out before anything comes off
A solar system usually carries several warranties at once: one on the panels, one on the inverter, and one from the installer on the workmanship, including the roof penetrations the racking mounts to. Many of those warranties spell out who may remove and reinstall the system. Work done by someone who is not approved can void the coverage.
So the first call is to your solar installer or the company that services your system, or a read of the warranty paperwork. Find out whether they require their own crew, a certified partner, or simply a licensed electrician for the reconnect.
Detach, replace, reset
On the day, the system is shut down, the panels are disconnected and removed, and the racking is taken off the roof. Panels are stored somewhere safe on the property. With the roof clear, the replacement runs like any other: tear-off, decking repairs, underlayment, flashing and shingles.
The mounting points are where the care goes. Every bracket that holds the racking goes back through the new roof, and each one needs proper flashing so the new roof does not start leaking at the solar mounts. The system is then reinstalled, reconnected and tested before the job is finished.
What it costs and who pays
Removing and reinstalling a residential solar array is priced separately from the roof, and depends on the number of panels, the racking type and who is required to do it. Across Texas it commonly runs from a couple of thousand dollars upward.
When hail or wind damaged the roof, the detach and reset is often included in the insurance claim, since the roof cannot be replaced without it. Make sure it appears on the approved scope.
Timing a replacement around a new solar install
If your roof is more than about ten years old and you are planning solar, it is worth having the roof inspected first. Replacing an older roof before the panels go on avoids paying to take them off again a few years later.
Related questions
Will replacing my roof void my solar warranty?
It can if the panels are removed by someone your solar warranty does not approve. Check the terms or call your solar installer before the roof work is scheduled.
Does insurance pay to remove and reinstall solar panels?
When a covered storm damaged the roof, the detach and reset is often part of the claim. Check that it is on the approved scope.
