Top 4 Questions to Ask About Your Roof Before Going Solar

Jan. 23, 2023

Installing rooftop solar is the best way to reduce your electricity costs, avoid energy price spikes, and reduce your carbon footprint. But before you install a solar energy system, it’s important to make sure your roof is suitable for solar panels. Here are four questions you should ask before installing solar panels on your roof to make sure solar will work for your house. 

1. Do I Need to Replace My Roof Before Going Solar? 

One of the most common questions we get from our customers is whether they should replace their roofs before installing solar panels. In many cases, it’s not necessary. 

  • If your roof is structurally sound and has at least 10-15 years of life left in it, you most likely will not need to replace it before you install a home solar system. 
  • If your roof is damaged or nearing the end of its lifespan, it is smart to replace it before going solar. 

Solar panels and roofs both last for decades and aligning their lifespans can be convenient. But if your roof is in good shape, it doesn’t make sense to pay for a new one before you need it—your solar panels can always be removed and reinstalled on the new roof when the time comes. This will, however, add to the cost of your roof replacement. 

The decision will ultimately come down to how old your roof is and what condition it’s in. A professional solar assessment will include a roof evaluation to determine whether a roof replacement is needed. Schedule a free consultation with Boston Solar to find out! 

2. What Direction Should Your Roof Face for Solar? 

The direction your roof faces will impact how much power your solar panels produce. A south-facing roof is ideal for solar panel installation and will result in maximum output. But that doesn’t mean you won’t benefit from a home solar system if your roof faces another direction. 

Solar panels will generate power no matter which direction they face, and installing a larger system can make up for the reduced output of a non-south-facing roof. A custom solar system design will ensure the maximum possible production given your roof’s shape and direction. 

3. Does Your Roof Get Enough Sunlight for Solar?

Solar panels work by converting sunlight into electricity, which means your roof needs to receive an adequate amount of sunlight throughout the day for your solar panels to be effective. Shading from trees, surrounding houses, and other obstructions can limit your solar system’s output. However, shading can often be reduced by taking down branches or whole trees. 

4. Can You Install Solar on Any Type of Roof? 

Solar panels can be installed on almost any type of roofing material. The installation process and mounting equipment may vary, depending on the type of roof you have, which can impact solar installation costs. 

We can install solar on many of the most common types of roofs in Massachusetts, including: 

  • Asphalt shingle
  • Metal (most types)
  • Concrete 
  • Rubber (most types) 

Find Out If Your House Is Good for Solar!

The best way to find out if your roof is suitable for solar panels is to schedule a consultation with an experienced solar installer near you. Boston Solar is the leading residential solar installation company in Massachusetts, and we can help you determine the best solar options for your home. We’ve been empowering Massachusetts homeowners for over a decade and have completed more than 5,000 solar panel installations. 

Call us today to talk to a solar expert about your home’s solar viability. We’re here to answer your questions and help you make the best decision for your home and energy needs. 


Is your house suitable for solar panels? Find out with a free solar consultation. Call 617-858-1645 or contact us online to get started. 
 

Top 4 Questions to Ask About Your Roof Before Going Solar

Wondering if your roof is good for solar?
We can help you decide! 
617-858-1645
GET STARTED

Help a friend go solar. You can earn up to $525! {$sitelongname} MORE INFORMATION