Does Your Roof Need Replacing Before You Go Solar?

Thinking about going solar? That’s a smart move — especially here in Fresno, where sunshine is abundant and PG&E rates keep rising.

But before you move forward, there’s one question you need to answer first:

Is your roof ready for solar panels?

Installing solar on an aging or damaged roof can lead to serious problems down the line — including costly panel removal and reinstall fees if the roof fails. In this guide, we’ll break down how to know if your roof needs repair or replacement before you go solar, and how One Sun Solutions can help you handle both with one trusted team.

⚠️ Why Your Roof Matters in a Solar Installation

Solar panels are built to last 25–30 years. That means the roof underneath needs to be strong enough to last just as long — or you’ll end up paying to remove and reinstall your entire solar array in a few years.

If your roof is already:

• Leaking

• Over 15 years old

• Missing shingles or tiles

• Sagging or soft in areas

• Covered in moss or rot

...then you may need a replacement or targeted repairs before you can go solar with confidence.

🧱 How to Tell If Your Roof Is Solar-Ready

Not sure if your roof will hold up?

Here are 6 signs your roof may not be ready for solar — yet:

1. Your roof is 15–20+ years old

Most asphalt roofs last 20–25 years. Tile and metal can last longer, but age still matters. If your roof is reaching the end of its expected life, it’s best to replace before adding panels.

2. You’ve had recent leaks or water stains

Any sign of water intrusion means the roof underlayment or decking is compromised. Adding solar panels could trap moisture — making the problem worse.

3. You’re missing shingles or tiles

Even a few missing pieces can weaken structural integrity. And if wind or rain gets underneath, it can cause damage both to your roof and to the mounted panels.

4. You have a sagging or uneven roofline

A sagging roof could indicate serious structural issues. Solar systems are heavy and require solid anchoring — a weak roof could be a liability.

5. Your roof has multiple layers

In Fresno, many older homes have “roof-over” jobs — a second roof installed over the first. This adds weight and makes inspection difficult. Most solar installers won’t work on layered roofs without a full tear-off.

6. The roof material is brittle or outdated

Wood shakes, old tile, and certain materials make panel installation more complicated or risky. Some materials are prone to cracking or can void warranties during drilling.

🧰 What Happens If You Install Solar On a Bad Roof?

Here’s what can go wrong if you skip the roofing step:

• Leaks under panels that are hard to find and expensive to fix

• Sagging or collapsing structure from weight stress

• Premature roof replacement that requires full panel removal

• Voided warranties from improper installs on bad roofing

This means you’ll pay thousands more in the long run — not just for roofing, but for reinstallation.

🛠️ Why It’s Better to Replace Your Roof Before You Go Solar

By taking care of your roof first, you:

• Ensure a smooth, worry-free solar install

• Protect your investment (panels + home)

• Can often roll roofing costs into solar financing

• Get 25+ years of performance from both systems

• Avoid paying twice for installation and labor

At One Sun Solutions, we can handle both your roofing and solar project in one place — saving you time, money, and hassle.

🧾 Real Fresno Example

One of our customers in Southeast Fresno had a 17-year-old asphalt roof with signs of minor sagging. Instead of risking a solar install on an aging roof, we replaced it with a new architectural shingle roof and installed a 7.2 kW solar system.

Now, their roof and solar system are both under warranty, and they’re saving over $175/month in energy bills — without any risk of future roof-related issues.

🤝 How One Sun Solutions Makes It Simple

Unlike many solar companies that subcontract roofing work, we do both in-house.

Here’s what you get:

• Free roofing inspection with every solar consultation

• One point of contact for both roofing and solar

• Honest assessment of whether repair or full replacement is needed

• Financing options for both projects, including $0-down

• A warranty that protects your roof and your solar panels

We serve Fresno, Clovis, Madera, and surrounding areas, and we’re always available to give you straightforward answers.

✅ Final Word: Don't Let a Weak Roof Undermine a Strong Solar Investment

Your solar system is a long-term investment — make sure your roof can support it for the long haul.

A roof that’s not solar-ready can lead to leaks, surprise expenses, and system downtime. But with the right prep — and the right partner — your roof and solar setup can last together for decades.

👉 Book your free roof & solar inspection today — and find out if your Fresno home is ready to go solar the right way.