If your roof is within 5-10 years of needing major work, doing solar first locks in the existing roof's remaining life. Better to restore or replace first, then install solar on the renewed roof.
The decision matrix
- Roof under 15 years old, sound condition: solar away
- Roof 15-25 years old, restoration suits: restore first, then solar
- Roof 25+ years old, replacement looming: replace first (often switch to Colorbond), then solar
Why it matters
Removing solar panels for roof work later costs $1,500-$3,000. Restoring or replacing the roof while solar is on costs more in labour and can void warranties. The order matters.