Re-Roof First or Solar First? A Simple Timeline for LA Homes
Solar panels can work for 25 years or more. If the roof under them wears out first, you will pay to take the panels off and put them back. This guide gives you a simple timeline to plan both projects in the right order. Have a solar quote in hand? We offer same-day roof checks so you can decide quickly.
- Roof and solar planning
- Simple timeline
- Avoid paying twice
- Updated October 2026
Use Your Roof's Age to Decide What Comes First
This simple rule works for most homes. A roof check confirms it for yours.
| Roof age and condition | Our usual advice |
|---|---|
| Under about 10 years, no leaks | Go solar now; fix small items like vent boots first |
| About 10 to 15 years | Get a roof inspection; decide based on condition |
| Over about 15 years | Plan a new roof before or with the solar install |
| Any age with active leaks | Fix or replace the roof before panels go on |
A Step-by-Step Plan for Roof and Solar
When both projects are needed, this order keeps things smooth.
Roof check
Have a roofer inspect the roof and tell you how many years it has left.
Plan both jobs
Share the solar layout with your roofer and the roof plan with your solar company.
Re-roof first
The new roof goes on, often with extra flashing planned for future mounts.
Install solar
The solar crew installs panels on a fresh roof that should outlast them.
Why Doing It in the Right Order Saves Money
Putting new panels on an old roof can lead to extra bills a few years later.
- Removing and reinstalling panels for a future re-roof adds labor costs.
- Your system is off while the roof is replaced, so you lose solar savings for that time.
- Leaks under panels are harder and costlier to find and fix.
- Some solar warranties have rules about who can move the panels.
Doing the roof first means you only pay for that work once. Our solar roof prep and panel reset service covers both cases.
Which Roof Types Pair Best With Solar Panels
- Standing seam metal: panels can clamp onto the seams, so fewer holes go through the roof.
- Architectural shingles: simple to mount on and easy to flash properly.
- Tile: works with special mounts, but needs careful handling to avoid cracked tiles.
- Flat roofs: panels sit on tilted racks, and every mount must be sealed into the membrane.
If you are choosing a new roof anyway, a cool-rated product helps meet LA rules. See our cool roof rule guide for how that works. Metal is a strong match, as covered on our metal roofing page.
How Your Roofer and Solar Installer Should Work Together
- Agree on where mounts will go before the new roof is installed.
- Use proper flashed mounts, not just sealant, at every roof attachment.
- Add critter guards so birds and rodents cannot nest under the panels.
- Get clear answers on who is responsible if a mount leaks later.
We are glad to review a solar proposal from a roofing point of view before you sign. Questions about who we are? Learn about our team.
Solar-Ready Roof Services, Guides and Areas
Services for solar homes, related guides and nearby areas where we prep roofs for solar.
Related roofing services
More roofing guides
Brands and nearby areas
Have more questions? Read our roofing tips and guides, learn about our team or send us a message.
Roof and Solar Timing Questions
Answers for homeowners planning solar in Los Angeles.
How old is too old for a roof to get solar panels?
If your roof is past about 15 years or has leaks, replacing it first is usually the smarter move. A roof inspection confirms it.
Can the roofer and solar company work at the same time?
Usually the roof is finished first, then the solar crew installs panels. Good planning keeps the gap short.
What happens to my panels if I need a new roof later?
The panels must be removed and reinstalled, usually by a solar installer, while the roof is replaced. That adds cost and downtime.
Can solar panels go on a flat roof?
Yes. Panels sit on tilted racks, and each mount must be sealed into the roof membrane to prevent leaks.
Get Your Roof Checked Before Going Solar
Book a roof inspection. We will tell you how many years your roof has left and help you plan the right order for both projects.