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Yes, installing solar panels or a solar roof can increase your home's value by approximately 4% to 6%. For a home with a median value of $429,000, this could translate to an increase of around $17,000. A well-maintained solar installation appeals to environmentally-conscious buyers and those looking to lower their utility bills, often helping homes sell faster and at a premium in areas with high electricity rates. However, the exact increase in value depends on factors like the local real estate market, energy costs, and available solar incentives. It's also important that the system is correctly installed and maintained; an older or poorly maintained system may not add significant value, particularly if it's near the end of its lifespan. Other solar features, like panels on a shed, can also boost your home's value.

Yes, going solar really saves money. In fact, according to some calculations, the average homeowner who switches from electric to solar power will save almost $2,000 a year on energy costs. While buying solar panels and switching to solar can be costly up front, the savings add up over time. If you can sell back extra energy or take advantage of tax incentives, your savings can be even higher.

Yes, it is possible to install solar panels on a tar and gravel roof, but it is not the ideal roofing material for a solar installation. The process requires roof penetrations to install the solar racking system. While installers will seal these penetrations, they still increase the risk of leaks. This risk is higher on tar and gravel roofs, which are often flat. Flat roofs are more prone to leaks than sloped roofs because they can pool water during heavy rain and hold snow for longer periods, exposing the roof to more moisture.

In most cases, installing solar panels will not void your roof warranty. To keep roof warranties intact, check your written warranty or call the manufacturer to ask about clauses regarding roof penetrations. You can also protect yourself by getting written approval or a modified warranty that specifically allows the solar installation type you’re planning. Then, hire a professional solar installer that follows roofing manufacturer instructions and protects the roof during installation.