Over the past few years, Raleigh has quickly become one of North Carolina’s most solar-friendly cities. With ample sunshine, an increasing focus on sustainability, and energy costs always on the rise, it’s no surprise that homeowners across the Triangle — from North Hills to Cary to Chapel Hill — are looking to install solar panels. But before you leap into harnessing the power of the sun, there’s a critical piece of the puzzle you don’t want to overlook: your roof.
At Raleigh Roofing and Remodeling, we get a lot of calls from homeowners asking, “Can my roof handle solar panels?” or “Should I replace my roof before going solar?” — and they’re asking the right questions. In this post, we’re diving deep into what every Raleigh homeowner needs to know before installing solar panels.
1. Is Your Roof Solar-Ready?
Not every roof is ready for solar panels — and that’s okay. But it’s important to evaluate a few key aspects before installation:
- Roof Age: If your roof is older than 15-20 years, it may not make sense to install solar panels without first considering a replacement. Removing and reinstalling panels later can be costly.
- Roof Condition: If you have missing shingles, signs of water damage, or sagging, your roof may not be able to support the weight of the solar equipment. A solid foundation is key.
- Roof Material: Asphalt shingles are among the easiest and most affordable surfaces for solar panel installation. Tile and slate can be more complex. Flat roofs may require special mounting systems.
- Roof Pitch and Orientation: In the Raleigh area, south-facing roofs with a pitch between 15–40 degrees are ideal for capturing maximum sunlight. But east- and west-facing options can still work, depending on your energy goals.
2. Should You Replace Your Roof Before Going Solar?
Here’s the deal — if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s almost always better to replace it before installing solar panels. It’s one of those “do it right the first time” situations.
Why?
Because once those panels are up, removing and reinstalling them down the line to replace your roof will cost you — not just in labor, but in potential solar energy downtime. Planning both jobs together can save you thousands.
At Raleigh Roofing and Remodeling, we often coordinate new roof installations with solar companies to ensure your project runs smoothly and your investment lasts.
3. What Roofing Materials Work Best with Solar Panels?
Here in the Triangle, asphalt shingles are the most common — and they’re excellent for solar installations. But if your home has something less typical, here’s what you need to know:
- Asphalt Shingles: Cost-effective, durable, and compatible with standard solar mounting systems.
- Metal Roofing (Standing Seam): Ideal for solar panels. They can be installed without roof penetrations, which helps prevent leaks.
- Tile or Slate: Beautiful, but trickier. These materials are brittle and can crack during solar installation. It can be done, but it requires an expert touch and may increase the cost.
- Flat Roofs: Still viable — but solar panels will require special racking to optimize the angle toward the sun. These setups are more common in commercial properties but can work on residential homes too.
4. Will Solar Panels Damage My Roof?
This is one of the most common concerns — and it’s a fair one. But if solar panels are installed properly by a reputable installer and your roof is in good shape, the answer is no.
In fact, solar panels can protect the section of the roof they cover from the elements. That said, the key word here is properly. The mounting systems must be installed correctly, flashing must be sealed, and penetrations must be waterproofed.
This is why having a licensed roofing contractor evaluate your roof before solar installation is so critical. At Raleigh Roofing and Remodeling, we inspect the integrity of your shingles, flashing, decking, and ventilation to make sure everything’s up to par.
5. Coordinating with Solar Installers: Why It Matters
If you’re working with a solar company, make sure they’re collaborating with your roofer. We’ve seen projects go sideways because installers didn’t know the condition or specs of the roof they were mounting to.
A quality solar installer will typically ask for a roofing inspection report — and that’s where we come in. We work closely with solar teams to:
- Certify that your roof is structurally sound
- Replace or repair trouble areas beforehand
- Ensure proper ventilation and underlayment are in place
- Coordinate installation to avoid delays or missteps
6. Incentives & Solar ROI in Raleigh
Solar panel systems aren’t just environmentally friendly — they’re smart investments. North Carolina offers several incentives that make solar more affordable:
- Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC): You can deduct 30% of the cost of your solar energy system from your federal taxes.
- Duke Energy Solar Rebate (limited availability): Check with Duke Energy for updates on rebate opportunities in Raleigh and Durham.
- Property Tax Exemption: North Carolina offers a property tax exemption for the increase in home value from solar installations.
Plus, solar panels can increase your home’s value — particularly in sought-after Raleigh areas like Brier Creek, Wake Forest, and Chapel Hill.
7. What’s the Best Time to Go Solar in Raleigh?
Spring and fall are ideal. The weather is milder, and you’ll be ready to capitalize on peak sun exposure through summer. However, if you’re replacing your roof first, plan accordingly — roofing projects can be weather-dependent.
Don’t forget: solar installations in Raleigh are subject to local permitting, inspections, and utility approvals. A typical timeline is 1–3 months from start to finish, so getting ahead of the curve matters.
Final Thoughts: Start with the Roof
Before you go solar, start at the top — with your roof. It’s the foundation for everything else, and getting it right ensures your solar investment lasts 25–30+ years without a hitch.
If you live in Raleigh, North Raleigh, Cary, Apex, or anywhere in the Triangle, Raleigh Roofing and Remodeling is your trusted local partner. Whether you need a quick inspection, minor repairs, or a full roof replacement ahead of solar installation, we’ve got your back — and your roof.
Need a professional roof inspection before going solar?
Contact Raleigh Roofing and Remodeling today and schedule your free estimate. We’ll help you get solar-ready with confidence.
