Solar panels are designed to last 25-30 years. Your roof should match. Installing solar on an aging roof almost always ends in regret. Here is what to think about before going solar.
Standing seam metal is the gold standard
Standing seam panels clamp directly to the metal ribs with no penetrations through the roof, zero new leak points. The panel system also outlasts the solar array, so you will likely never have to remove panels to replace the roof.
Architectural shingles work too
A new or relatively new architectural shingle roof can host solar successfully. Penetrations are properly flashed during the install. The key is starting with a roof that has 20+ years of life left.
What to do first
Get an honest roof inspection before signing a solar contract. If your roof has fewer than 15 years of life remaining, replace the roof first.
