if the bones aren’t solid, you’re just stacking problems
That’s spot on. I see a lot of folks eager to install green roofs or solar, but if the structural integrity isn’t there, you’re risking way more than you gain. I’ve inspected roofs that “survived” storms, only to find hidden moisture damage in the decking or compromised fasteners. Sometimes the real issue is deferred maintenance—old rafters, outdated sheathing, or even undersized joists. Before any upgrades, a structural assessment is a must. Otherwise, you’re just putting lipstick on a time bomb.
I’ve seen roofs that looked fine after a hurricane, but once you start poking around, you find split rafters or rusted connectors hiding under the surface. Sometimes it’s not even the storm that does the worst damage—it’s years of patch jobs and skipped inspections. Folks get excited about solar panels, but if the sheathing’s already soft or the fasteners are corroded, you’re just adding stress. I always tell people: don’t trust what you can see from the ground. Crawl up there, check the framing, and look for signs of old leaks or sagging. It’s not always obvious, but it makes a world of difference.
- Totally agree about not trusting what you see from the ground.
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“don’t trust what you can see from the ground. Crawl up there, check the framing, and look for signs of old leaks or sagging.”
- Bought my first place last year—roof looked fine to me (from below), but inspector found a couple of soft spots near the ridge.
- Turns out, old patch jobs + Florida humidity = hidden headaches.
- I’m all for solar panels, but now I double-check everything before adding weight up there.
- Lesson learned: if it looks too good to be true, it probably needs a closer look...
- I’m all for solar panels, but now I double-check everything before adding weight up there.
That’s a good point about not trusting what you see from the ground. I’ve had similar surprises—my last place looked solid until we pulled up some decking and found rot right at the eaves. Florida humidity really does a number on hidden spots, especially after patch jobs.
I’m curious, for those who’ve added solar panels, did you reinforce your framing or just rely on the original structure? I keep hearing mixed advice on whether older roofs can handle the extra weight, especially after weather events.
I keep hearing mixed advice on whether older roofs can handle the extra weight, especially after weather events.
Honestly, it depends a lot on what you’re starting with. I’ve seen 30-year-old trusses that look fine from below but have hidden splits or water damage up top—especially here in Florida where humidity is relentless. When we install solar, I always recommend at least checking the rafters and sheathing for soft spots or old repairs. Sometimes you find stuff that makes you wonder how the roof’s still standing... If there’s any doubt, a little reinforcement goes a long way. It’s not just about weight—it’s wind uplift too, especially after a hurricane season.
