Can solar panels cause a roof to leak?

The installation of solar panels on your roof can be an exciting time as it means you will be cutting down your energy costs considerably, but doing this will involve drilling holes in your roof, which could beg the question of whether this will cause your roof to leak? There are various reasons your roof could leak after installing solar panels.

Can solar panels be installed on a roof?

Most modern roofs are compatible and able to withstand the installation of solar panels, but in some cases, the roof material is susceptible to leaks. If your roof is made from clay, terracotta, wood shingles, or slate, there is an increased risk of leaks developing through the installation.

What should I do if my roof leaks?

While you can check the roof for debris or damage, your best bet is to call your installer immediately. There could be any number of causes for a leak, including damage caused by walking on the roof, dragging solar panels, or having a tile break in the underlayment.

What causes a roof leak?

There could be any number of causes for a leak, including damage caused by walking on the roof, dragging solar panels, or having a tile break in the underlayment. These are not issues you can resolve yourself, and since your warranty would cover these issues, your first call should be to your installer.

Can composite shingles be hidden under solar panels?

Since composite shingles will be invisible as they are hidden away under the solar panels, there will be no impact on the roof’s aesthetics or the home, and you can rest assured that there will be no leak issues once this is complete.

How do you install solar panels on a roof?

To install the mounting brackets, holes are drilled into the roof and usually into the rafters, and these holes are made for the lag bolts that secure the racking system upon which your solar panels are mounted. Depending on the type of material your roof is made from, the size and depth of the holes will vary.