Yeah, that's a really good point about the warranty stuff. When we got our solar installed, the company was pretty upfront about roof age—they basically said if your roof's older than 10-15 years, you're probably better off replacing it first. Of course, I ignored that advice because my roof looked "fine" to me (famous last words, right?). Fast forward three years and guess who had to shell out extra cash to remove and reinstall panels after a leak popped up?
As for warranty coverage, ours specifically mentioned that removing and reinstalling panels could affect it. Luckily, we haven't had any issues yet (knock on wood), but your friend's story makes me think I should double-check the fine print again. Honestly, if I could do it over, I'd bite the bullet and replace the roof first—would've saved myself some headaches and probably money too. Live and learn, I guess...
"Honestly, if I could do it over, I'd bite the bullet and replace the roof first—would've saved myself some headaches and probably money too."
Yeah, hindsight's always 20/20. I'm curious though, did your installer mention anything about inspecting or reinforcing the roof structure before panel installation? Seems like that could prevent some of these issues down the line...
When I had mine installed, the guy did a quick attic check but didn't really talk about reinforcing anything. Luckily, my roof was pretty solid...but yeah, definitely pays to ask those questions upfront. Live and learn, right?
"Luckily, my roof was pretty solid...but yeah, definitely pays to ask those questions upfront."
Totally agree with you there—asking upfront can save a ton of headaches later. Did your installer mention anything about the age or type of shingles mattering? When I had mine done, the guy recommended replacing older shingles first because the panels supposedly outlast the roof itself. Just something to think about if your roof isn't brand new...
Yeah, that's actually a really good point about the shingles. I didn't think about it at all until my neighbor had panels installed, and then two years later he had to redo his whole roof. Watching him pay to have the panels taken off and put back on again was painful (well, funny for me, but painful for his wallet...). Did your installer say anything about warranties or coverage if they have to remove them temporarily? Mine mentioned something vague about it, but honestly, I was more focused on figuring out if squirrels could chew through the wiring (spoiler alert: yes, they can, and they will). Anyway, definitely worth double-checking that stuff before you're stuck paying twice.
