Back to Blog Education Solar Panels and Your Roof: What San Antonio Homeowners Should Know
Mark WhiteApril 22, 20265 min read San Antonio averages 220+ sunny days per year, making solar a genuinely smart investment for many homeowners. But as a roofer, I see a critical mistake happening constantly: people installing solar panels on roofs that are 15-20 years old.
Here's why that's a problem and how to plan it right.
The Golden Rule: New Roof Before Solar
Solar panels last 25-30 years. If your roof only has 5-10 years left, you'll need to remove all the panels, replace the roof, and reinstall the panels. That double-installation adds $3,000-$5,000 to your costs and voids the solar company's roof penetration warranty.
Rule of thumb: if your roof is over 10 years old, replace it before installing solar. You'll have a fresh roof and fresh panels on the same timeline, maximizing both investments.
Roof Penetrations from Solar Mounting
Solar panels are mounted using lag bolts drilled through the roof deck. Each bolt is a potential leak point. On a new, properly flashed roof, these penetrations are manageable. On an aging roof with compromised underlayment? Each bolt is a ticking time bomb.
At Legacy, we install 'solar-ready' roofing when we know panels are coming. This includes reinforced underlayment in the panel zones and flashing details designed for future penetrations.
Schedule a Free Roof Inspection
Not sure about the condition of your roof? We will send a certified inspector to your home at no cost. Same day or next business day availability.
Book Your Free Inspection →Texas HOA and Solar Law
Texas Property Code §202.010 prohibits HOAs from banning solar panels outright. Your HOA can regulate placement (to some degree) but cannot prohibit solar installation. If your HOA tries to block solar, know your rights.
Questions about coordinating a roof replacement with solar installation? Call Legacy at (210) 272-7272. We work with multiple San Antonio solar installers and can coordinate both projects.
Got a roofing question? Something keeping you up at night? (Besides that mysterious dripping sound?) Email me personally at mwhite@legacytx.com. I read and answer every single one.
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Try the Instant Estimator → MW Mark White
Owner, Legacy Home Improvements · San Antonio since 1999
Mark has been in the roofing business for over 25 years. He personally inspects homes, works with insurance adjusters, and answers every email at mwhite@legacytx.com.
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