Why Panels Need to Come Off
Roofing contractors cannot replace shingles or apply new roofing membrane under mounted solar panels. The panels, mounting hardware, and flashing all need to be removed before roof work begins and reinstalled once the new roof is complete.
This is a separate scope of work from the roofing job itself. Your roofing contractor handles the roof. A solar company handles the panel removal and reinstall.
What the Removal Process Involves
- Disconnecting the solar system from the electrical panel
- De-energizing and isolating the system safely
- Removing panels and labeling them for proper reinstall
- Removing mounting hardware and flashing
- Staging panels safely on the ground during roof work
Panels should be labeled and documented before removal so they go back in the same positions. This matters for system performance and for maintaining accurate records.
Timing the Work
The removal and reinstall need to be coordinated with your roofing schedule. Panels come off before roofing starts. They go back on after the new roof passes inspection and the adhesives or materials have cured.
Getting the timing right matters. Panels stored on the ground too long are at risk of damage. Systems that are offline for extended periods affect your solar production and may have monitoring gaps.
What the Reinstall Includes
After the roof is complete, the reinstall process involves:
- Inspecting panels for any damage that occurred during removal or storage
- Installing new flashing appropriate for the new roof material
- Remounting hardware and panels to correct positions
- Reconnecting wiring and system components
- Testing the system after reinstall to confirm it is operating correctly
Will My System Work the Same After Reinstall?
In most cases, yes. If panels are handled correctly and remounted in the same configuration, system performance should be comparable to before.
Reinstall is also a good time to have the overall system inspected, particularly if it is several years old. Wiring connections, junction boxes, and mounting hardware can all be reviewed while the panels are accessible.
Planning Ahead
If you know a roof replacement is coming, let your solar company know early. Getting removal and reinstall scheduled in coordination with your roofing contractor avoids unnecessary delays and keeps the project moving.
