The Reality Check You Didn’t See Coming
83% of solar installations in the U.S. are rooftop-based, and most rely on standard residential roofing systems (SEIA, 2023)
More than 60% of roofing contractors say they’ve had to repair damage caused by solar installations (NRCA Survey, 2022)
A 2021 study found that poor flashing around solar panel mounts is among the top 3 causes of post-installation roof leaks (Home Innovation Research Labs)
When you see that kind of data, it’s clear: solar isn’t just something to watch—it’s something to plan for. And for roofers, it’s no longer just about shingles and flashing. It’s about navigating a shared roof with another trade that can either sink your reputation—or support it.
1. Fighting Solar Installers? You’re Fighting the Future
Solar installations are exploding, not slowing down. The Inflation Reduction Act is pushing more homeowners toward solar with hefty tax incentives. You can either keep cleaning up after someone else’s bad install—or you can be the roofer they call before the panels go on.
One Florida-based roofer put it simply: “They void warranties. They screw up schedules. But they’re not always the reason for leaks.” Meaning: not every solar job is a disaster. The key is working together from the start.
2. Your Roof Warranty Might Already Be at Risk
One major headache roofers face? Warranty disputes. If a solar company drills into your roof, any future leak becomes a blame game.
Several roofers admitted they won’t even warranty a roof with solar installed by someone else. Some void the entire warranty. Some just the slope. Some play defense with legal clauses.
But imagine if your company handled the mounting too—or had a preferred solar partner who followed your specs. Less risk. Less blame. More control.
3. Bad Solar Work Hurts Your Reputation, Even If It’s Not Your Fault
A homeowner doesn’t care whose fault it is. If their roof leaks, they’re frustrated—and you were the last person they trusted with it.
One roofer shared a $60,000 horror story where solar installers trashed a clay tile roof. Another explained, “If anything goes wrong, the roofer blames the solar guys, and the solar guys blame the roofer. It’s always a mess.”
But when you partner with a solar team you trust—or handle those steps yourself—you own the whole process. And the homeowner sees you as the one who made it all work.
4. Roofers Who Add Solar Options Win Bigger Jobs
Think about this: if you could offer solar brackets installed during roofing, you’re already ahead of most solar crews. Some roofers even train their teams to handle the mounting system, then let solar electricians handle wiring. It’s a win-win: fewer leaks, cleaner installs, better margins.
As one experienced contractor put it: “Roofing companies that also do solar avoid warranty issues altogether.” It’s one extra service—but a huge strategic advantage.
5. You Already Know the Roof—So Why Not Own the Whole Experience?
You know the structure. You know the load zones. You know the flashing details that keep water out.
Yet solar crews often come in blind. One roofer explained, “Most rely on tar or caulk to seal penetrations. That stuff won’t last the life of a roof.” That’s where your expertise makes all the difference. You can help make solar installs safer, longer-lasting, and less prone to callbacks.
Plus, you get the added visibility—many solar customers don’t even know who did their roof. Now they do.
6. Don’t Let the Industry Divide You—Let It Grow You
Some roofers resent solar because it feels like another contractor interfering with their work. But here’s the truth: it’s not going away.
Instead of resisting it, become the solution. Partner with the right solar companies. Or create your own install division. Or simply educate solar crews on how to install without voiding warranties.
Because if you don’t? Someone else will.
You don’t need to compete with solar, you can lead with it.
You didn’t get into roofing to fix someone else’s mistakes. You got in to build something solid. This is your chance to protect your work, expand your services, and create a better experience for the homeowner.
