As solar energy becomes more popular across the Mid-South, many homeowners in Memphis, Germantown, Southaven, and Collierville are facing a new challenge: what happens when the roof beneath their solar panels needs to be replaced?
A solar panel system is a major investment — one designed to last 20 to 30 years. But most roofing materials don’t last that long. So at some point, every solar-equipped home will likely need a roof replacement before the panels reach the end of their lifespan.
And here’s the key point: replacing your roof without involving your solar provider can void your system’s warranty and cause costly complications.
At Metro Builders Memphis, we’ve guided dozens of homeowners through this process safely and efficiently — ensuring the solar system remains protected and your new roof is installed with zero shortcuts.
Why Metro Builders Doesn’t Remove or Reinstall Solar Panels
Although we are licensed roofing contractors with decades of experience, Metro Builders does not remove or reinstall solar panels — and for good reason.
Most solar panel warranties explicitly state that only certified solar technicians or the original installer may remove or reinstall the system. If your roofer tries to handle it directly, it could:
- Void the solar system warranty
- Damage delicate electrical components
- Create liability and inspection issues
- Delay system reactivation and utility grid approvals
We want to protect your long-term investment, not jeopardize it.
Understanding the Re-Roofing Process With Solar
Replacing your roof when solar panels are installed is completely doable — it just requires proper planning and coordination. At Metro Builders, we follow a 4-step process designed to make things simple for homeowners:
Step 1: Contact Your Solar Provider
Reach out to your solar installer and request their “detach and reset” service. Most reputable companies offer this as a standalone service or work with certified subcontractors who do.
This ensures the panels, racking system, and wiring are safely removed under warranty conditions.
Step 2: Schedule Your Roof Replacement With Metro Builders
Once you’ve confirmed when your solar panels will be removed, we’ll schedule your roofing project right after — minimizing the time your solar system is offline and your home is exposed to the elements.
We’ll coordinate directly with your solar provider if needed, to make sure the timeline flows smoothly.
Step 3: Complete Roof Replacement
Our licensed Memphis roofing team will complete a full tear-off and replacement, repairing any damaged decking and updating all flashing and underlayment.
We install roofing materials that are durable, energy-efficient, and solar-compatible, all while pulling permits and following local codes in areas like Germantown, Southaven, and Collierville.
Step 4: Solar Reinstallation and Testing
After the new roof is inspected and approved, your solar provider will return to reinstall the system and verify that it’s working correctly. Once it’s reconnected, you’ll be back to generating clean energy — on top of a roof that’s storm-ready and warrantied.
Why Choose Metro Builders for Roof Replacements With Solar
Founded in 1996, Metro Builders has been serving Memphis and the surrounding Mid-South region for nearly three decades. Our crews are fully licensed, insured, and experienced in working with homes that have solar, satellite, skylights, and other specialty roof-mounted equipment.
When you work with Metro, you get:
- Expert coordination with solar providers
- Code-compliant roof installation
- Permit-pulled work for peace of mind
- A dedicated Project Manager throughout your job
- Fast turnaround and clear communication
Whether your roof is nearing the end of its life or you’re preparing for storm season, we help ensure the roofing process doesn’t interfere with your solar system — or your peace of mind.
Serving Solar-Equipped Homes Throughout the Midsouth
We proudly serve homeowners across:
- Germantown
- Collierville
- Southaven
- Olive Branch
- East Memphis
- And surrounding Shelby and DeSoto County communities
Ready to Replace Your Roof Safely?
If your home is due for a new roof and you already have solar panels installed, don’t take chances with your investment. Let the experienced team at Metro Builders Memphis help you get it done the right way — start to finish.
Call +1 901-375-1717 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free, no-obligation quote and roof assessment today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes — if your panels are mounted directly on the roof, they must be removed before the roofing process begins. This is the only way to access and replace the materials underneath without risking damage.
No — and for good reason. Only your solar installer or a certified technician should remove the system. If we were to do it, it could void your warranty and potentially damage your solar equipment.
We’ll help you manage that process. Once you have your panel removal date scheduled, we’ll coordinate your roofing timeline to minimize the downtime between removal, roof work, and reinstallation.
Usually between 3–7 days, depending on how quickly your solar provider can return after the roofing is complete. We’ll work with them to keep downtime as short as possible.
No — in fact, it might improve it. A new roof gives your installer a clean, secure surface, and we ensure all flashing and decking are ready for proper remounting. If you’re upgrading materials (e.g., from shingles to metal), we’ll make sure it’s compatible.
Yes — if your roof has storm damage, you may be eligible for a full replacement under your homeowner’s insurance. The solar panel removal is typically a separate cost handled through your solar provider.
Chris Price is the CEO of Metro Builders, with over 25 years of experience in construction and project leadership. He’s passionate about building strong teams, delivering quality projects, and driving innovation in the industry.
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