Does My Roof Need to Be Replaced Before Going Solar?

Are you considering solar energy for your home in Phoenix? Now is the perfect time to harness the power of the sun and take advantage of significant savings through federal and state tax credits. Our team at Phoenix Valley Solar can help you navigate these incentives and maximize your savings. You can also use our Arizona Solar Calculator to get an estimate of your potential benefits..

Installing solar panels in Phoenix is a long-term investment — most systems last 25 years or more. But what happens if your roof is nearing the end of its life?

If you're considering home solar installation in Phoenix, it's important to understand how your roof’s condition affects your project — and whether it should be replaced before the panels go up.

Here’s how to assess your situation and make the right decision for your home.

1. Why Roof Condition Matters for Solar

Solar panels are mounted directly onto your roof using penetrations or integrated mounting systems. If your roof needs repairs or a full replacement shortly after installation, it means:

• You’ll have to remove the solar panels, which adds cost and complexity

• Your solar production will be disrupted

• Warranties on your roofing or solar system could be affected

To avoid these issues, a thorough roof assessment is always part of the solar installation process at Phoenix Valley Solar.

2. How to Know If Your Roof Needs Replacement

Ask these key questions:

• How old is your roof?

  • Shingle roofs last 20–25 years

  • Tile roofs can last 40+ years

  • Flat roofs vary depending on material (typically 15–25 years)

• Are there signs of wear or damage?

  • Missing or curling shingles

  • Cracks in underlayment

  • Leaks or sagging areas

  • Granule loss or soft spots

• What is the remaining life expectancy? If your roof has less than 10 years of life left, most experts recommend replacing it before installing solar panels.

3. Can Solar Panels Be Installed on an Older Roof?

Yes — but it depends on the roof’s current condition. If the structure is sound, and only the surface material is aging, reinforcement or partial replacement may be an option.

However, installing on an aging roof increases the risk of:

• Water damage over time

• Expensive panel removal for future roofing work

• Limited solar or roof warranty coverage

At Phoenix Valley Solar, we evaluate your roof with every proposal and give you a clear, honest recommendation.

4. What if I Need a New Roof?

Many homeowners choose to replace their roof at the same time as their solar installation, especially if their roof is 15–20 years old.

Benefits include:

• Completing both projects at once

• One warranty covering both systems

• Avoiding future reinstallation costs

• Financing both with the same solar loan (in many cases)

We work with experienced, licensed roofing partners throughout the Valley and coordinate the full project for you — no need to manage two contractors.

5. Can I Add Solar to a Tile Roof?

Yes, absolutely. Tile roof solar installation in Phoenix is very common — but it does require specialized mounting techniques to avoid damaging the tiles or underlayment.

If your tile roof is old, we may recommend replacing the underlayment while keeping the existing tiles, which preserves the look and adds decades of durability.

Our team is trained in working with all tile types, including:

• Concrete barrel tile

• Flat tile

• Spanish clay tile

6. What About Roof Warranties and Solar?

Reputable solar companies should work with roofing contractors to ensure:

• Your roofing warranty remains valid

• The penetrations and flashings are watertight and code-compliant

• Your new roof is solar-ready and structurally sound

At Phoenix Valley Solar, we provide documentation showing how your solar system integrates with your roof and help you maintain all warranties.

Final Recommendation

If your roof is in good condition and has 10+ years of life left, you're likely ready for solar. If it’s near the end of its life, it’s better — and more cost-effective — to handle replacement before going solar.

Solar panels protect your roof from sun and weather where they’re installed, so a solid roof ensures your entire system performs well for decades.

Work with a Solar Installer Who Knows Roofing

At Phoenix Valley Solar, we:

• Perform detailed roof inspections with every consultation

• Partner with top-rated roofing contractors when replacement is needed

• Coordinate the entire project from start to finish

• Design systems built to last — on top of the right roofing foundation

We’ve earned our reputation as the best solar company in Phoenix by delivering systems that are secure, efficient, and built for the long term.

Schedule a Roof + Solar Evaluation Today

Contact Phoenix Valley Solar for a free consultation. We’ll assess your roof, evaluate your solar potential, and help you decide whether now’s the right time to go solar — or start with a new roof and do it right the first time.

Are you considering solar energy for your home in Phoenix? Now is the perfect time to harness the power of the sun and take advantage of significant savings through federal and state tax credits. Our team at Phoenix Valley Solar can help you navigate these incentives and maximize your savings. You can also use our Arizona Solar Calculator to get an estimate of your potential benefits.