Installing solar panels is one of the investments that can help lower your monthly utility bill. Besides complementing the appeal of your home, solar panels are an eco-friendly source of energy. But before you decide if solar is right for your home, you probably have some questions and concerns you’d like to address.
Perhaps you’re asking yourself, will solar panels void my roof warranty? If you select an installer that offers a workmanship warranty, the simple answer is no. But you will probably want a more elaborate answer than that to get your peace of mind, so keep reading for all the details.
Solar Panels vs. Roof Warranty
A roof warranty usually has two parts. The first is the installer’s workmanship warranty covering the installation craft. Its duration will vary, but the most common is ten years. The second is the materials warranty provided by the roofing product manufacturer. The materials warranty range from 25 to 50 years, depending on the product. Faults in the roofing product are covered under the manufacturer, as long as all terms are met.
Cautiousness is Key
In most cases, solar panels will not void a roof warranty. However, you have to be cautious of some companies that may install solar panels without considering the consequences of some actions, such as drilling holes in your roof. Before installing a solar panel, it’s wise to ask your solar provider to coordinate with your roof contractor. It’s even better if both services are provided by the same company.
Getting the two contractors to work together ensures that the conditions set by your warranties are followed and your roof remains intact after the solar panel installation. Your solar panel providers may also offer a warranty to cover the part of the roof they use. This is called a workmanship warranty and it ensures that the solar panel warranty does not void your roof warranty conditions.
Ensuring Solar Panels Do Not Void Your Roof Warranty
All these potential conflicts between solar panel installation and your roof warranty will be avoided by engaging experts. Solar optimum is a leading solar provider and winner of the 2020 Panasonic National Installer of the Year Award. We also offer our clients warranties of up to 25 years, covering panels, racking, inverter, quality, performance guarantee, and roof.
Why a Poor Installation Can Void Your Roof Warranty
While many contractors are ethical and skilled, some may offer substandard services just to profit. Poor professionalism equally occurs in the solar products industry. If your solar provider does not observe the guidelines from the roof product manufacturer, your warranty may be invalidated.
Some of the common ways that a solar provider may end up voiding your roof warranty include:
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Carelessness at work leading to damage such as compromised roofing membranes or cracked tiles
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Using substandard racking systems that might not involve waterproofing features
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Improper installation even in instances with good racking systems usage, e.g., not using the suitable waterproofing sealant
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Using the wrong fasteners on your roof to attach footings
Understanding Your Solar Warranty
The most important thing before settling on a solar provider is understanding the warranty they provide. It should be able to cover roofing damage if it happens.
The best choice for your solar installation is Solar Optimum. We are an all-in-one roofing and solar energy installer based in Southern California. We offer the industry’s best 25-year bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers everything from materials to installation and roofing. To learn more, download your free resource below. You can also contact us to speak with one of our solar energy and roofing experts today.