Get matched with top roofers in Alexandria, SD

The best way to know if your roof can support solar panels is to hire a structural engineer. They’ll look at your roof and approve the design of your solar panel system or suggest changes. The best roofing for solar panels is made from strong materials like asphalt shingles and metal, but tile and gravel will work. Softer materials like thatch or temporary structures are not a good fit.

The cost to replace a roof typically ranges from $8,700 to $22,000, with a national average of around $9,200. The total cost depends on the size of your roof and whether you need a full replacement or can simply place new shingles over the old ones. A full replacement, which is necessary if the roof is several decades old or has multiple layers, is more expensive. This process involves tearing off the old roofing materials, inspecting and repairing the underlying structure, and then installing the new roof.

Fall is widely considered the best time of year to replace a roof. The moderate temperatures are ideal for roofing crews to work and for new shingles to seal properly. Additionally, autumn weather is often drier, reducing the risk of weather-related delays compared to the rainier spring season.

While spring is also a viable option, the higher chance of rainfall can slow down the project. The main drawback to a fall installation is that it's the peak season for roofers, which can lead to higher prices and scheduling challenges.

To potentially save money, you could consider scheduling your roof replacement during the summer or winter off-seasons. However, both seasons have significant disadvantages. Extreme summer heat can make shingles too soft to handle, while winter's cold, snow, and ice can create dangerous working conditions and prevent shingles from sealing correctly, as they typically require temperatures above 40-45°F.

An improperly installed skylight could potentially impact your roof's warranty. This happens because roofing penetration is necessary during skylight installation. Check your warranty information to verify. In most cases, having skylights professionally installed with proof that flashing is being done to specifications can be enough to preserve your roof's warranty.