Is Your Roof Ready for Solar?
What DOE says matters
- Orientation and slope: panels typically perform best on south-facing roofs with a slope between 15 and 40 degrees, "though other roofs may be suitable too."
- Shade: trees causing excessive shade may make rooftop panels less ideal.
- Size and shape of usable roof area.
- Age: consider "how long until it will need replacement."
The FTC adds roof pitch, age, condition, direction, and environmental factors like snow and dust.
Why roof age matters
Systems are designed to stay on a home 20+ years (FTC). If your roof needs replacing during that time, panels may need to be removed and reinstalled. Ask your installer what that costs and who does it.
Not a fit?
DOE notes community solar is an option if your roof isn't suitable or you don't own your home.
Ask your installer
- Does my roof need repair or replacement first?
- How will mounting penetrations be sealed, and what's the workmanship warranty?
- What happens if I need roof repairs later?
Tax note: the IRS says traditional roofing components (like shingles and trusses) generally didn't qualify for the 25D credit, which in any case doesn't apply to expenditures made after Dec 31, 2025 (the IRS treats an expenditure as made when installation is completed).
Sources
- U.S. Department of Energy, "Homeowner's Guide to Solar" — https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/homeowners-guide-going-solar (accessed Oct 20, 2026)
- FTC Consumer Advice, "Solar Power for Your Home" — https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/solar-power-your-home (accessed Oct 20, 2026)
- IRS, "FAQs for modification of sections 25C, 25D, 25E, 30C, 30D, 45L, 45W, and 179D under Public Law 119-21 (OBBB)" — https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/faqs-for-modification-of-sections-25c-25d-25e-30c-30d-45l-45w-and-179d-under-public-law-119-21-139-stat-72-july-4-2025-commonly-known-as-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-obbb (accessed Oct 20, 2026)
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Last reviewed 2026-10-20.
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