As renewable energy gains popularity across Michigan, more homeowners are choosing to install solar panels to cut down on energy bills and reduce their environmental impact. While solar panels provide significant benefits, many people overlook one critical step in the process: ensuring their roof is in excellent condition after installation.

The truth is, your roof serves as the foundation for your solar panels. Without a well-maintained roof, your solar investment could be at risk. This is why roof inspections after solar installation are a must. A post-installation inspection can uncover potential issues caused during installation, ensure your roof can support the panels long-term, and help you avoid costly repairs down the line.

If you’re a homeowner in Michigan considering solar panels—or if you’ve already installed them—this guide will explain why roof inspections matter, what to expect during one, and how to protect your roof and solar system for years to come.

How Solar Panels Impact Your Roof

Installing solar panels isn’t just about securing them to your roof. It’s a process that involves changes to your roofing structure, and those changes can have lasting effects if not handled correctly. Here’s how solar panels can impact your roof:

1. Roof Penetrations

To secure the solar panels, installers need to drill into your roof to attach the mounting hardware. These penetrations are then sealed to prevent water from leaking into your home. While professional installers are trained to ensure a watertight seal, even a small oversight can lead to leaks or moisture damage.

2. Additional Weight

Solar panels are heavy, and while the weight is evenly distributed across your roof, older or damaged roofs may struggle to bear the load. This is especially true in Michigan, where snow accumulation during winter adds extra stress.

3. Changes to Water Flow

Solar panels can alter the way water flows off your roof. If the panels block water from reaching your gutters or create areas where water pools, it could lead to leaks or other roofing problems.

Why a Roof Inspection Is Critical After Solar Installation

You might assume that your solar panel installer has already inspected your roof, but that’s not always the case. While they check for basic structural integrity, their primary focus is on the solar panels—not the roof itself. This is why a professional roof inspection is essential after installation.

1. To Check for Proper Sealing

Roof penetrations are the most vulnerable points after solar installation. If they aren’t sealed properly, water can seep through, causing damage to your roof deck, insulation, and even your home’s interior. An inspection ensures all mounting points are watertight.

Why It’s Crucial in Michigan: With Michigan’s heavy rain and snow, even a small gap can lead to significant water damage over time.

2. To Evaluate Roof Strength

If your roof was already showing signs of wear before the panels were installed, the added weight of the system could accelerate its deterioration. A roof inspection can identify weak points and recommend reinforcements if necessary.

Why It’s Crucial in Michigan: Winter snow can add considerable weight to your roof, making structural integrity even more important.

3. To Prevent Long-Term Issues

Solar panels are designed to last 20-30 years, but your roof may not last that long without proper care. A post-installation inspection ensures your roof is in good condition to support the panels for their entire lifespan.

What Happens During a Roof Inspection?

A post-solar roof inspection is more than just a quick look at your shingles. Here’s what a professional will typically check:

1. Mounting Points: The inspector will examine every penetration where the solar panel mounts were installed, ensuring they are sealed and waterproof.
2. Shingles and Flashing: They’ll check for any loose or damaged shingles and inspect flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights to ensure nothing was disturbed during installation.
3. Structural Support: The roof’s framing and decking will be evaluated to confirm they can handle the added weight of the panels.
4. Water Drainage: Proper water flow will be assessed to ensure the panels aren’t obstructing gutters or causing water to pool on the roof.

How Michigan Weather Affects Your Roof After Solar Installation

Michigan homeowners face unique challenges when it comes to maintaining their roofs, especially with solar panels installed. The state’s climate can be tough on roofing systems, and here’s how it can impact yours:

Winter Snow and Ice

Snow adds weight to your roof, and ice dams can form if water freezes near the edges. If your roof isn’t properly sealed, melting snow can seep into cracks and cause damage.

Spring Storms

Heavy rains and high winds in the spring can test the seals around your solar panel mounts. If they aren’t secure, water can find its way inside.

Summer Heat and Humidity

Hot summers can cause shingles to expand and contract, potentially loosening solar mounts or creating gaps where water can enter.

Tips for Maintaining Your Roof After Solar Installation

To protect both your roof and solar panels, follow these maintenance tips:

1. Schedule Regular Roof Inspections: Plan for annual inspections to catch and fix issues before they become serious.
2. Clean Your Gutters: Blocked gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof, especially during Michigan’s rainy seasons.
3. Trim Nearby Trees: Prevent branches from falling onto your roof or shading your panels.
4. Monitor Snow Accumulation: Safely clear excess snow from your roof during the winter to reduce stress on the structure.

Why Choose Melvin Belk Roofing for Roof Inspections?

At Melvin Belk Roofing, we understand how important your roof is to the success of your solar energy system. Our Roof Inspections are designed to give Michigan homeowners peace of mind by ensuring their roofs are ready to support solar panels and withstand the region’s challenging weather conditions.

Whether you’ve just installed solar panels or it’s been a few years since your last roof inspection, our team is here to help. With decades of experience serving Michigan homeowners, we know how to keep your roof in excellent shape for years to come.

Protect Your Investment Today

Solar panels are a fantastic investment, but they require a strong, reliable roof to perform their best. By scheduling a professional roof inspection after solar installation, you can avoid unexpected problems, protect your home, and ensure your solar panels last for decades.

Contact Melvin Belk Roofing today to schedule an expert Roof Inspection. Let us help you safeguard your roof and maximize your solar system’s performance!