Solar Panel Installations Are Leaking All Over New Jersey
Although we've always used high-quality flashing to protect against leaks, some of our competitors have installed solar panel systems on aging roofs or without the use of proper flashing. The use of proper flashing was more vigorously enforced by code officials in the 2015+ time-frame when flashing was required by the 2015 International Building Code.
Prior to 2015, many solar installers simply injected a silicone based sealant into the pilot hole and applied some more over the top of the lag bolt. Over time, these sealants have been breaking down allowing water to enter the lag bolt holes causing roof leaks. If left untreated, this can damage your roof rafters, sheathing, sheet rock, and cause mold.
Cheap Leak Protection
The "calk and pray" installation approach that was taken by many installers is illustrated above.
Rotted Rafters
As water infiltrates from the roof, it can lead to rotted rafters that may need to be replaced.
Rotted Sheathing
Most times if there are signs of rotted rafters, the roof sheathing will also be damaged and require replacement.
Damaged Sheetrock
As water drips from the failed penetrations, attic insulation and sheet rock may also need to be replaced.
Solar Panel Removal & Replacement Services
Removing and reinstalling solar panels is a lot more complex than most people think. Once you determine that your solar panels need to be removed, it's important to understand what's involved in getting your PV Solar system back on your roof in compliance with the current building and electrical codes.
Here are a few questions to help you determine the best approach for removing and reinstalling solar panels:
- How long do I plan to stay in my house?
- Do I owe any money on my existing solar panel system?
- Have I already achieved the ROI that I expected?
- How many years of SREC income do I have left?
- Are my inverters in compliance with 2017 National Electric Code requiring module level rapid shutdown?
- Are my inverters at the end of life (most older inverters only last 10-years)? Will they need to be replaced soon?
- Can I take advantage of the current Federal Tax Credit?
Three primary Solar Panel Removal & Replacement options
Solar Removal & New Roof
This service includes the complete removal and disposal of your existing solar panel system and your roof (down to the sheathing). We'll also replace any damaged sheathing when we install your new GAF Timberline HD Lifetime Roofing System.
This solution is best for people who are not planning to stay in their house for much longer, have inverters that are nearing end-of-life, and can't financially benefit from the reinstalling their existing system or a replacement system.
This solution is not eligible for the Federal Tax Credit or the New SREC program.
Solar Removal, New Roof & Re-installation Of Your Existing System
This service includes the complete removal the existing Solar Panels and your roof (down to the sheathing). We'll also replace any damaged sheathing when we install your new GAF Timberline HD Lifetime Roofing System. In parallel, we will redesign, engineer and permit the re-installation of your old system. In most cases, we will need to install a new mounting system and upgrade your central inverters so that they comply with NEC 2017 code.
Once the permits are approved, we will install the new mounting system and your existing solar panels. We will also upgrade your inverter(s) if required, label all equipment in accordance with current codes, and recommission the system. The last step is to call in your township inspection and ensure that the system passes electrical and construction inspections.
This solution is best for people who are planning to stay in their house for at least 5 years, have 10+ years of SRECs remaining, have micro-inverters or SolarEdge Optimized inverters (that are NEC 2017 compliant), and can financially benefit from the re-installing their existing PV Solar System.
This solution is not eligible for the Federal Tax Credit or the New SREC program.
Solar Removal, New Roof & New Solar
This service includes the complete removal of the existing PV Solar Panel system and your roof (down to the sheathing). We'll also replace any damaged sheathing when we install your new GAF Timberline HD Lifetime Roofing System. In parallel, we will design, engineer, register (with NJ Clean Energy & the Utility Company), and permit the installation of a new PV Solar System.
Upon permit approval, we will order all new PV Solar equipment, complete your installation, and close out your permits. Once your permits are closed out, we will finalize the registration with your utility and NJ Clean Energy so that you receive your new SRECs.
This solution is best for people who are planning to stay in their house for at least 5 years, have less than 10 years of SRECs remaining, have older inverters, and can financially benefit from the reinstalling their existing system.
This solution is 100% eligible for the Federal Tax Credit and the New SREC program. In many cases, this is a less expensive option and produces the most long-term savings/profit.
We can help determine the best solution for your situation
Simply call us at 732-410-7818 or fill out our intake form and one of our Energy Consultants will call you to discuss your specific situation.
Case Study: Solar Removal & Re-installation In Springfield, NJ
*** NOT OUR INSTALLATION ***
Solar Should NOT Have Been Installed On This Old Roof!
*** NOT OUR INSTALLATION ***
This Was A Leak Waiting To Happen
*** NOT OUR INSTALLATION ***
Multiple Leaks All Over The Roof
*** NOT OUR INSTALLATION ***
No Flashing Installed & Rails (UGLY) Should Have Been Cut
*** NOT OUR INSTALLATION ***
Multiple Electrical Code Violation
Let's Get This Fixed
New Roof, Sheathing & Flashing To Start
Let's Get This Fixed
Array Skirt Is Attached To The Mounting System
Let's Get This Fixed
Old Panels Are Re-Installed On New Mounting System
And... We Are Done!
The Client Is Ready To Rock-N-Roll
FAQs For Removing and Replacing Solar Panels
How much does it cost to detach and reset solar panels?
Unfortunately, there is no simple answer. This is going to depend on quite a few factors.
Will a solar company replace my roof?
As a GAF Timberline Certified Roofing Contractor, we also offer roof replacement services. Engaging with just one company for your solar and roofing needs saves a lot of time, money, and effort.
Does removing solar panels damage the roof?
YES, the removal of solar panels will damage your roof as each penetration should have been flashed or silicone in place. When we remove the mounting system the roof sheathing will be exposed and patching is NOT recommended, so a roof replacement will be required to keep the roof from leaking.