Replacing Your Roof? Here’s What to Know About Solar Panel Removal & Reinstallation

🏠 Why Solar R&R Matters During a Roof Replacement

If you have solar panels and your roof needs to be replaced, a removal and reinstallation (R&R) is a necessary part of the process. Panels need to be carefully removed before any roofing work begins and then reinstalled once the new roof is complete.

This isn’t something most roofing companies handle — and it’s not a job to rush or skip over.

In Washington, where rain, moss, and roof aging are common issues, solar R&Rs are more frequent than many homeowners expect. Knowing what to plan for ahead of time can prevent downtime, damage, and unexpected delays.

🔍 What’s Involved in a Solar R&R?

A proper R&R includes several key steps:

• System shutdown and disconnection from the inverter and grid

• Labeling and safe removal of panels, racking, and wiring

• Storage of equipment during roofing

• Reinstallation after the roof is complete, with attention to layout and tilt

• Inspection and testing to ensure the system is producing correctly

When done carefully, this process protects your panels and ensures your system is reactivated quickly and safely.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Waiting Until the Last Minute

Coordinating a roof replacement requires planning, especially if solar is involved. Scheduling the R&R early helps avoid roof delays and rushed service.

2. Letting Roofers Handle the Solar

Some homeowners assume roofing contractors will remove and reinstall the panels. Most do not — and those that try often lack the training or licensing required to handle electrical components and racking systems safely. Most Roofing companies won’t reinstall your panels after the roof replacement. This can cause the panel orientation to be incorrect leading to issue when tracking performance and Missing or damaged parts necessary for reinstallation.

3. Skipping the Final Inspection

Once your system is back on your roof, it should be fully tested before it’s powered back on. This includes checking for wire integrity, inverter output, panel alignment, and proper mounting.

🛠️ What to Look for in an R&R Provider

If you’re preparing for a roof project, ask these questions when hiring someone for solar removal and reinstall:

• Are they licensed to handle solar equipment and wiring?

• Can they guarantee scheduling that lines up with your roofing timeline?

• Do they test the system before and after reinstallation?

• Are they familiar with your inverter type (Enphase, SolarEdge, APsystems)?

• Will your system be reinstalled with the same layout and efficiency?

🌲 Washington Homeowners: Why This Matters Locally

In counties like King, Pierce, Kitsap, and Thurston, moss buildup, pine debris, and older composite roofs often lead to earlier-than-average roof replacements. With more solar systems being installed every year, R&Rs are becoming a common — and sometimes unexpected — part of long-term system care.

Planning ahead ensures:

• Your panels are protected during the project

• Roofing isn’t delayed due to scheduling gaps

• Your system is reinstalled properly and producing again without long downtime

✅ Final Thoughts

If you’re a solar homeowner in Washington planning a roof replacement or repair, it’s worth taking the time to understand how solar R&Rs work. Whether your system is five years old or brand new, having a qualified solar professional handle the removal and reinstallation protects both your roof and your investment in solar.

If you're unsure where to start or have questions about your system's compatibility with an upcoming project, speak with a licensed solar provider who regularly handles R&Rs in your area.