Your roof and solar system work together to protect your home and power your life. But when it’s time to replace your roof, the panels must come off before work can begin — and that’s where solar detach and reset services come in.
Improper removal or reinstallation can lead to damaged panels, leaks, or even voided warranties. To avoid costly mistakes, it’s important to work with licensed professionals who specialize in safe solar panel removal and reinstallation.
Here’s everything homeowners need to know about safely removing and reinstalling solar panels during roof replacement.
1. Schedule a Pre-Roofing Solar Inspection
Before roof work begins, your solar system should be thoroughly inspected. This ensures all panels, mounts, and electrical components are functioning properly before removal. It also gives technicians a baseline to compare system performance after reinstallation.
2. Disconnect the Solar System Safely
Your solar panels are connected to live electrical wiring that must be shut down and disconnected by a licensed electrician. This step ensures safety for both roofing and solar crews and prevents any electrical hazards during the project.
3. Remove Panels and Mounting Hardware Carefully
Each panel is detached one by one, with connectors, bolts, and mounts removed systematically. Proper labeling and organization during this step make reinstallation smoother and ensure every component returns to its original position.
Professionals use protective padding and handling equipment to prevent glass or frame damage while panels are stored.
4. Store Panels in a Safe, Dry Location
Panels should be kept in a clean, shaded, and dry space during roof replacement. Exposure to moisture or heat can damage internal components. Proper storage also keeps the panels ready for a flawless reinstall once the new roof is complete.
5. Replace Roof Flashings and Sealants
While your panels are off, your roofer should replace all flashings and sealants around mounting points. This step is crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring your new roof remains watertight for years to come.
6. Verify Mounting Points Before Reinstallation
Before reinstalling panels, technicians inspect the roof’s structure to confirm that the new shingles or materials are ready to support mounts securely. Mounts must be realigned, resealed, and rebolted with precision to avoid future roof or system issues.
7. Reinstall Panels with Clean, Organized Wiring
When reinstalling, professionals use tidy, secure wire routing that maintains both performance and aesthetics. All panels are tested individually for proper output before being reconnected to the system.
This is also a great time to replace any aging wiring, connectors, or mounting hardware.
8. Reconnect and Test the System
Once reinstalled, your system is carefully reconnected to the inverter and monitoring system. A licensed technician runs diagnostics to confirm everything is producing as expected.
At this stage, the system should be fully operational, safe, and compliant with all electrical codes.
9. Perform a Final System Commissioning
The final step involves verifying your system’s performance through monitoring software. Technicians confirm energy production levels, test electrical flow, and ensure all panels are reporting data properly before leaving your property.
10. Keep Records for Warranty and Insurance
Documenting the removal and reinstallation process protects your warranties and can help with insurance claims if storm or roof damage occurs later. Keeping a record of maintenance also adds value if you ever sell your home.
