Should You Replace Your Roof Before Installing Solar Panels?
If you're considering solar panels for your Oklahoma home, one of the most important questions to ask is: what condition is my roof in? Solar panel systems are designed to last 25 to 30 years, so your roof needs to support them for the long haul. Installing solar on an aging or damaged roof can lead to costly problems down the road.
At G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing, we specialize in both roofing and solar installation in Oklahoma. This combination allows us to give homeowners honest assessments and complete solutions, whether you need a simple roof inspection, storm damage repair, a full roof replacement, or a brand-new solar energy system.
Signs Your Roof May Need Replacement Before Solar
Before any solar installation, a professional roof inspection is essential. Here are warning signs that your roof may need attention:
Age of your roof. Most asphalt shingle roofs last 20 to 25 years in Oklahoma's climate. If your roof is approaching this age, replacing it before solar installation makes financial sense.
Missing, cracked, or curling shingles. Visible damage indicates your roof's protective layer is compromised. Solar panels installed on damaged shingles may void warranties and lead to leaks.
Storm damage. Oklahoma is no stranger to severe weather. Hail, high winds, and tornados can cause damage that isn't always visible from the ground. If your roof has weathered major storms, a professional inspection is critical.
Sagging or uneven areas. Structural issues must be addressed before adding the weight of solar panels. A sagging roof indicates potential problems with decking or support structures.
Leaks or water stains. Any signs of water intrusion mean your roof's integrity is compromised. Solar installation should wait until repairs or replacement are complete.
Granules in gutters. Finding excessive shingle granules in your gutters signals that your shingles are deteriorating and nearing the end of their lifespan.
The Benefits of Combining Roof Replacement with Solar Installation
When you need both a new roof and solar panels, completing them together with a single contractor offers significant advantages.
Cost savings. Combining projects eliminates duplicate labor costs. Roofers and solar installers don't have to make separate trips, set up equipment twice, or work around each other's schedules. Many homeowners save hundreds to thousands of dollars by bundling roof replacement and solar installation.
Seamless integration. When the same company handles both your roof and solar panels, everything is designed to work together. Mounting systems are installed correctly the first time, flashing is properly integrated, and there are no gaps in workmanship.
Single point of contact. Dealing with one contractor instead of two simplifies communication and project management. If any issues arise, you know exactly who to call.
Coordinated warranties. When different companies install your roof and solar panels, warranty claims can become complicated. Who's responsible if a leak develops near a mounting bracket? With G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing handling both, there's no finger-pointing.
Optimized roof design. If you know solar is coming, your new roof can be designed with solar in mind. This might mean choosing materials that work better with mounting systems or orienting certain sections for maximum sun exposure.
Roofing Services We Offer in Oklahoma
G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing provides comprehensive roofing solutions throughout Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Edmond, Moore, and surrounding areas.
Complete roof replacement. When repairs aren't enough, we install high-quality roofing systems designed to protect your home for decades. We primarily use GAF products but can work with whatever roofing materials you prefer.
Storm damage repair. Oklahoma weather can be brutal on roofs. Our team responds quickly to repair hail damage, wind damage, and other storm-related issues before they lead to bigger problems.
Roof inspections. Not sure about your roof's condition? We provide thorough inspections that identify current damage and potential future concerns. Every solar customer receives a complimentary roof inspection.
Insurance claim assistance. Navigating insurance claims after storm damage can be frustrating. G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing works directly with insurance companies to help Oklahoma homeowners get their roofs restored with minimal hassle.
Roof repairs. From minor leaks to damaged flashing, our roofing contractors handle repairs of all sizes throughout Oklahoma.
How Oklahoma Weather Affects Your Roof and Solar Panels
Living in Oklahoma means dealing with weather extremes that impact both roofs and solar panels. Understanding these factors helps you make informed decisions about protecting your home.
Hail storms. Oklahoma ranks among the top states for hail damage. Modern solar panels are designed to withstand hail, but your roof may not fare as well. After any significant hail event, have both your roof and panels inspected.
High winds. Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms bring powerful winds that can lift shingles and stress roofing materials. Properly installed solar panels actually add weight and can help hold roofing in place, but only if the underlying roof structure is sound.
Temperature swings. Oklahoma experiences hot summers and cold winters. These temperature fluctuations cause roofing materials to expand and contract, leading to wear over time. Quality materials and professional installation minimize weather-related degradation.
Intense sun. The same abundant sunshine that makes Oklahoma great for solar energy also breaks down roofing materials faster than in cloudier climates. UV exposure causes shingles to become brittle and lose protective granules.
Financing Your Roof and Solar Project
A combined roof replacement and solar installation is a significant investment, but financing options make it manageable for most Oklahoma homeowners.
Solar loans. Many solar financing programs allow you to include roofing costs when the roof is necessary for the solar installation. This means one loan payment covering both projects.
Home equity options. Home equity loans and lines of credit often offer lower interest rates for home improvement projects, including roofing and solar.
Insurance coverage. If your roof needs replacement due to storm damage, your homeowner's insurance may cover part or all of the cost. We help Oklahoma homeowners navigate the claims process.
Federal tax credit. The 30% federal solar tax credit applies to your entire solar installation cost, including any roofing work directly required for the solar project. This can offset thousands of dollars in expenses.
Why Choose G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing for Your Oklahoma Home
Most solar companies in Oklahoma don't do roofing. Most roofing contractors don't do solar. G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing does both, and does them well.
Our dual expertise means you get honest assessments. We won't install solar on a roof that can't support it just to make a sale. If your roof needs work, we'll tell you, and we'll handle it ourselves rather than sending you to find another contractor.
We're locally owned and operated in Oklahoma City, and we understand the unique challenges Oklahoma homes face. Our team includes experienced roofers and certified solar installers who work together seamlessly.
From insurance restorations to complete solar energy systems, G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing is the one company you need for your Oklahoma home's exterior.
Schedule Your Free Roof and Solar Inspection
Whether you're dealing with storm damage, planning a roof replacement, considering solar panels, or all three, G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing is here to help. We offer free inspections and estimates for homeowners throughout Oklahoma.
Don't let an aging roof hold you back from going solar. And don't install solar without knowing your roof is ready. Contact the Oklahoma roofing and solar experts who can evaluate your entire situation and provide solutions that protect your investment.
Call G 1:3 SoLar & Roofing at (405) 283-3745 or visit g13solar.com to schedule your free consultation today.


