If you’re planning to replace your roof, it’s the perfect opportunity to think about more than just new tiles or slates.
A roof replacement is one of the best times to install solar panels. By combining both projects, you can reduce disruption, improve the appearance of your home and, in some cases, even save money.
Whether you’re replacing an ageing roof, extending your home or carrying out a full renovation, planning solar alongside your roofing work allows everything to be designed and installed together from the outset.
Here’s why so many homeowners choose to combine the two.
Solar panels are designed to remain on your roof for 25 years or more. If your existing roof is already approaching the end of its lifespan, it often makes little sense to install solar now only to remove it again in a few years’ time for roofing work.
Replacing the roof first provides a solid foundation for your new solar system and avoids the additional labour involved in removing and reinstalling panels later.
Planning both projects together also gives you more flexibility when designing the layout of your solar installation.
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Replacing a roof is already a major home improvement project. By installing solar panels at the same time, you only need to organise scaffolding, tradespeople and site access once. Rather than arranging a second project months or years later, everything can be completed as part of the same schedule, helping to minimise disruption to your home.
Good communication between your roofer and solar installer also allows the work to be coordinated more efficiently.
One of the biggest practical advantages is scaffolding. Both roofing work and solar panel installation usually require safe access to the roof. By completing both projects together, you may be able to avoid paying for scaffolding twice, helping to reduce overall project costs.
While every project is different, combining roofing and solar work often creates efficiencies that simply aren’t possible when the jobs are completed separately.
If you’ve been considering in-roof solar panels, a roof replacement is often the ideal opportunity. Unlike traditional on-roof systems, integrated solar panels replace part of the roof covering, creating a sleek, flush finish. Installing them during a roof replacement means the roofing work and solar installation can be carried out together, making the process far more straightforward than retrofitting them later.
As we explored in our guide to In-Roof Solar Panels: Pros, Cons and Costs Explained, integrated systems are particularly popular with homeowners who want solar panels to blend seamlessly into the design of their home.
When solar is included from the beginning, the roof can be designed with the installation in mind. This allows careful planning of:
Instead of trying to fit panels around existing features, the entire roof can be designed to maximise both energy generation and visual appeal.
A new roof is a long-term investment, and solar panels are too. Planning both together helps prepare your home for future technologies such as:
Thinking ahead now can make future upgrades easier and help your home remain energy efficient for years to come.
Before any solar panels are installed, your roof should always be assessed to ensure it’s structurally sound. A professional survey will consider:
The Energy Saving Trust recommends obtaining a professional assessment before installing solar panels to ensure the system is suitable for your property and designed to achieve the best possible performance.
If you’re combining roofing work with solar installation, choosing experienced professionals is essential. Sheerwater Solar will work closely with your roofer to coordinate the project, ensuring both the roof and solar system are completed to a high standard.
You’ll also want to choose an MCS-certified installer, giving you confidence that your solar installation meets recognised industry standards.
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) maintains a register of certified installers and approved products across the UK.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting until after the new roof has been completed before thinking about solar. By involving your solar installer during the planning stage, you can:
As we’ve discussed in our blog When Is the Best Time to Install Solar Panels During a Home Renovation?, early planning almost always delivers the best results.
If you’re investing in a new roof, it’s worth considering whether now is also the right time to install solar panels.
At Sheerwater Solar, we regularly work alongside homeowners, roofing contractors and builders to design solar systems that integrate seamlessly with new roofs. Whether you’re interested in a traditional on-roof installation or a contemporary in-roof system, we’ll help you find the right solution for your property.
Contact Sheerwater Solar today and let our experienced team design the perfect solar system alongside your new roof. We’ll assess your property, explain your options and create a bespoke installation that helps you make the most of your investment for decades to come.
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Reaching out to Sheerwater Solar is straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you’re interested in solar panels for your home or business in Woking, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. You can contact us directly by calling 01932 627 555 or by sending an email to info@sheerwatersolar.co.uk.
Alternatively, fill in our online form for a swift response.
What happens next?
In most cases, we’ll need to conduct an on-site survey at your property to assess the feasibility and provide you with a tailored quote. This visit allows us to understand your specific needs and explore the potential for renewable energy solutions. Following the survey, we’ll discuss the best options for integrating solar energy into your property, including detailed costs and the installation process.
We’re excited to assist you on your journey to renewable energy and look forward to hearing from you.