If you’re planning a roof replacement and already have solar panels, you’re probably wondering:
“Do I need to remove my solar panels before the new roof goes on?”
Yes — in almost every case, a professional solar detach & reset is required. This isn’t just a recommendation; it’s essential for protecting your home, your solar equipment, and your roofing warranty.
However, many homeowners don’t realize how important this process is — or what can go wrong if roofers attempt to remove panels themselves. Here’s everything you need to know before replacing your roof when you have a solar system installed.
Why Solar Panels Must Be Removed Before a Roof Replacement
Solar panels are mounted directly to your roof using hardware that penetrates the shingles. This means roofers cannot access:
- Underlayment
- Shingles
- Flashing
- Nail patterns
- Roof decking
…until the solar system is removed.
Trying to work around solar panels can cause:
- Damaged shingles
- Broken wiring
- Cracked panels
- Voided warranties
- Roof leaks
- Electrical hazards
Removing the system is the only safe, code-compliant way to install a new roof.
What Is a Solar Detach & Reset?
A detach & reset is a licensed solar service involving:
Detach (Before Roofing)
- Powering down the system
- Removing panels, racking, and hardware
- Disconnecting wiring safely
- Verifying, updating, or replacing flashing
- Storing panels onsite or securely
Reset (After Roofing)
- Installing new flashing for every penetration
- Reinstalling racking and panels
- Reconnecting wiring and conduit
- Testing voltage, production, and safety
- Confirming monitoring is online
- Ensuring your system is producing properly before leaving
Why Roofers Should Never Remove Your Solar Panels
Roofers specialize in roofing — not electrical systems.
When roofers remove solar panels without proper training, homeowners often experience:
- Damaged connectors
- Pulled wiring
- Ground faults
- Breaker trips
- Inverter shutdowns
- Incorrect mount placement
- Leaks from improper flashing
- Monitoring failures
Attempting DIY removal or letting a roofer handle the panels is one of the most common causes of post-roofing solar system failure.
A licensed solar technician ensures everything is disconnected and reinstalled safely and properly.
How a Proper Detach & Reset Protects Your Home
A professional team protects your:
1. Roof Warranty
Roofers require a clean, unobstructed surface for proper installation.
2. Solar Equipment Warranty
Manufacturers require licensed handling to keep warranties valid.
3. Wiring & Connectors
Improper removal causes hidden damage that may not show up until months later.
4. Flashing Integrity
New roofing requires new flashing to prevent leaks.
5. System Performance
A proper reset ensures your system produces exactly what it should.
What Homeowners Should Expect During the Process
Most detach & reset projects follow this schedule:
- Day 1: Solar system is detached
- Days 2–3: Roofing crew completes the roof
- Day 3 or 4: Solar system is reinstalled and tested
For larger systems, timelines may vary slightly.
Proper coordination ensures your power interruption is minimal.
Signs Your Roof Replacement Caused Solar Damage (If Not Done Professionally)
If roofers attempted the removal or reinstallation, you may notice:
- Zero production
- Monitoring showing “offline”
- Some panels working, others not
- Inverter error codes
- Visible wiring damage
- Leaks under panel mounts
- Loose or missing hardware
- Panels not sitting evenly
These issues require an immediate diagnostic visit.
How Much Does a Solar Detach & Reset Cost?
Pricing varies based on:
- System size
- Roof height and pitch
- Wiring complexity
- Roof material
- Add-on upgrades (critters guards, optimizers, etc.)
Most homeowners find a detach & reset is much cheaper than repairing wiring, replacing panels, or fixing leaks caused by improper handling.
Best Time to Upgrade Your Solar System
Since your panels are already off the roof, this is the perfect opportunity to add:
- New wiring
- Updated optimizers
- Critter guard
- Panel upgrades
- New racking
- Monitoring upgrades
- Battery storage
Upgrading during a detach & reset saves time and money.
Why DFW Homeowners Trust Sunaura Solar for Detach & Reset Services
Homeowners and roofing companies across DFW rely on Sunaura Solar because they provide:
- Licensed and insured work
- Safe, clean, code-compliant electrical handling
- New flashings and leak protection
- Clear communication with roofers
- Brand-agnostic support for any solar system
- Full performance verification
- Transparent pricing and scheduling
Your solar system — and your roof — are major investments. A professional detach & reset protects both.
