Solar Installation with a New Roof

Install Solar With a New Roof in Southeastern Wisconsin

Installing solar panels and replacing your roof at the same time is one of the smartest ways to protect your investment, lower long-term costs, and avoid paying twice for labor.

At Smart Roofing and Sheet Metal Company, we coordinate roof replacement and solar installation planning together so homeowners get a roofing system built to support long-term energy performance and avoid premature panel removal.

If your roof is aging, damaged, nearing end-of-life, or you are planning to install solar within the next several years, combining both projects can reduce disruption and improve overall project efficiency.

Service Areas: Milwaukee County, Waukesha County, Ozaukee County, Washington County, and most of Southeastern Wisconsin.

Should You Replace Your Roof
Before Installing Solar?

Installing solar on an older roof often creates unnecessary future costs.

When both projects happen together, homeowners can:

    • Avoid removing and reinstalling solar later for roof replacement
    • Protect roofing warranties and manufacturer requirements
    • Improve roof penetration planning and waterproofing details
    • Coordinate electrical and roofing schedules
    • Extend the lifespan of the complete roofing system
    • Reduce labor duplication and project downtime
    • Improve curb appeal and resale value

A roof should ideally have enough remaining life to match the expected lifespan of a solar system.

Residential solar roof installation

Why Install Solar Panels When
Replacing Your Roof?

In most cases: yes you should. If your roof has less than approximately 5-10 years of remaining life is often better to wait and more cost effective to do them together.

Signs you should replace your roof first:

  • Roof is over 15–20 years old
  • Curling, cracking, or missing shingles
  • Active leaks or water intrusion
  • Storm damage or insurance-related wear
  • Multiple prior repairs
  • Soft decking or ventilation concerns

Smart Roofing helps evaluate whether your existing roof is ready for solar or whether replacement should happen first.

Best Roofing Materials for Solar Panels

Here are two of our highly recommended types of roofing systems we install when doing solar installations:

Architectural Asphalt Shingles

Most common residential solar pairing. Benefits:

  • Cost-effective, asphalt is the standard roofing material in North America which helps solar flashing kit hardware costs stay low
  • Excellent compatibility, mounting systems for asphalt roofs use code-compliant flashing plates under the shingles creating a reliable, mechanical, watertight seal that naturally sheds water.
  • Easy future maintenance
  • Strong weather performance
Asphalt Single Roof with Solar
Standing Seam Metal Roof with Solar

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Excellent Long-term option. Benefits:

  • Extended lifespan, standing seam roofing lasts 50+ years
  • Non-penetration with concealed fastener system and clamp mounting brackets
  • Strong snow-shedding performance
  • Double-cooling symbiosis, panels shade the roof to slash your AC bills, while the reflective metal prevents heat buildup to keep your solar cells running at peak electrical efficiency.

Smart Roofing Standards

Our New Roof + Solar Installation Process

Instant Estimate

Click on ‘Instant Estimate’ to quickly get an initial roof quote and input your project description with solar interest.

Initial Contact

Your appointed advisor will reach out to schedule your free inspection and consultation.

Free Inspection

We assess your roof’s condition, ventilation performance, structural considerations, roof age, remaining life, and areas planned for solar placement.

Estimate

After the inspection, we’ll present a comprehensive, no-obligation estimate tailored to your needs.

Follow-Up

We follow up to answer any additional questions and confirm your decision after receiving your other bids.

Project Approval

Once you approve the estimate, we’ll schedule the project and provide a timeline for completion.

Preparation

We prepare the site, ensuring safety and minimal disruption to your property.

Roof Replacement

Our team installs a complete roofing system designed for durability and long-term protection.

Roof Quality Check

After installation, we conduct a thorough quality check to ensure the roof meets our Smart Standards.

Solar Layout Coordination
Solar Layout Coordination

Before installation begins, we coordinate panel placement zones, attachment locations, wire routing, vent and obstruction locations, and future service accessibility.

Solar Installation with a New Roof
Solar Installation

After roofing completion, solar equipment installation proceeds using the finalized roof layout and mounting locations.

Solar Quality Check

After installation, we conduct a thorough quality check to ensure the solar panel system meets our Smart Standards.

Cleanup

We leave your property clean and tidy, removing all debris and ensuring your satisfaction.

Final Walkthrough

Together we will walk through our 35 point inspection addressing questions or concerns for complete satisfaction.

Post Completion

Long after your roof is complete, we’re always here to help and support you to maintain and protect your investment.

Smart Roofing and Sheet Metal

Our Commitment to Quality & Customer Satisfaction

Smart Choice. Smart Service. Smart Roofing.

Smart Roofing is a trusted name in southeastern Wisconsin, delivering top-quality roofing for homes and businesses. We offer competitive pricing, expert craftsmanship, and hands-on project management. With a BBB A+ rating and multiple service awards, our reputation speaks for itself. Whether it’s a home, rental, or commercial property, Dale and the team have you covered.

solar and roofing company

How Long Does a
New Roof and Solar Installation Take?

Typical Timelines:

    • Roof replacement: 1-3 days
    • Solar Design and approvals: varies by utility and permitting (plan this before both projects)
    • Solar installation: 1-3 days

Project schedules vary depending on roof size, weather, complexity, and permitting.

Why Homeowners Choose Smart Roofing?

Property owners choose Smart Roofing and Sheet Metal Company because we have focus on
quality workmanship, transparency, and long-lasting roofing solutions since 1950.

What Sets Us Apart

    • Local Wisconsin roofing expertise
    • Roof-first planning for long-term performance
    • Detailed installation coordination
    • Manufacturer-focused installation methods (and what’s already worked for your unique home)
    • Residential and specialty roofing experience
    • Clean communication throughout the project

Our goal is simple:  install an asphalt roof that protects your property and solar that maximizes energy efficiency

Want your roof + solar install added to our schedule?  Start with your free estimate. 

Schedule Your Free
Roof Inspection

If you are at the start of the process and wondering if solar installation with a new roof is even compatible. We get it.

Contact a local solar roofing contractor like Smart Roofing and Sheet Metal Company  today to schedule a free roof inspection.

Our team will evaluate your roof. Explain your options for a residential solar roof installation. Provide a clear plan for the best roof for solar panels, discuss roof replacement before solar, then address installing solar panels on the new roof.

New Roof + Solar Installation FAQs

Is it cheaper to install solar and a new roof together?

Often yes. Combining projects can reduce duplicate labor and prevent future panel removal expenses.

Can solar panels damage a roof?

When properly installed and flashed, solar systems should not damage roofing materials.

Does a new roof increase solar performance?

The roof itself does not generate more electricity, but proper roof condition and panel positioning support long-term system reliability.

What roof lasts the longest under solar panels?

Metal roofing, it’s durability outlasts even the solar panels. For architectural shingles, a heavier shingle is always the best for long-term durability.

Can I finance roofing and solar together?

Some homeowners choose bundled financing options depending on lender and project structure. Applying for a HELOC loan with your mortgage company or local credit union you will get a better rate than any third party company will give you. (We are not financial advisors, and will not be held liable for your financial decisions.)

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE SMART ROOFING?

At Smart Roofing, we focus on delivering direct benefits that property owners will appreciate:

1

Price Match Gaurantee

If you find a better price with the services we offer, let us know, and we will match it like-and-kind! But expect we’re giving you honest pricing upfront!

2

Decades of Experience

With over 75 years of service in southeastern Wisconsin, we are a trusted, family-owned and operating roofing company that’s seen it all.

3

Honest Service

We remove the existing roof and inspect for hidden issues like wood decking damage, ventilation, and moisture concerns.

4

Expert Installation

Our team consists of highly trained and certified professionals, ensuring superior craftsmanship and long-lasting results.

Certainteed
malarkey

We work with the best brands

Experiences From Smart Roofing Clients
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Ruud Lenssen profile picture
Ruud Lenssen
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We had a small leak in our sunroom and called the guys at Smart roofing for a quote on a potential repair/replacement. Joey came over to the house and after a thorough inspection said that he could replace the poorly installed old flashing but, it would cause damage to the siding of the house. He recommended a temporary repair to stop the leak and advised to have it permanently fixed when we replace the siding in the near future. He fixed it right away on the spot! What a class act! Old school service and genuinely wanted to help, not just make a quick buck. Great job, Joey!!
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Ryan Siegler profile picture
Ryan Siegler
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Outstanding experience! I needed a roofing quote after another company I contacted for a siding estimate told me that I also needed a new roof. Joey came out, thoroughly inspected everything, and informed me that my roof was actually in good working order. He took the time to address all of my concerns and never tried to sell me something I didn’t need. If you’re looking for an honest quote from a trustworthy company—with reviews that back up their performance—this is the place to go. When the time does come for a new roof, they’ll be the first company I call. Thanks again, Joey! Highly recommend!
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William Cray profile picture
William Cray
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Dale at smart roofing is awesome! He inspected the roof on a property we were looking to buy and was really knowledgeable. While doing that inspection, I told him we had a small amount of water coming in our current home and he came right over to take a look. All the other roofers we had were complete sales guys just trying to sell us a new roof for 30k+. Dale said some simple repairs would suffice and to save the $. He's working up an estimate for us. It felt like he was advising and consulting us rather than just trying to suck as much money out of us as possible like the 2 other companies we had come look at our roof. Not to mention, when he was here he said he's pretty sure he figured out why the water was coming in and just put a handful of screws in and some caulk around a vent. He did it on the spot and didn't charge us. Just a really down to earth good guy.
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Ashley Kline profile picture
Ashley Kline
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I am writing to share my appreciation for the excellent service we received recently. We had some flashing leaking on our chimney, and Dale went above and beyond to come to our house in an extremely timely manner. He went up on the roof, identified the exact problem, and fixed it immediately. Unlike the other contractors we had over, there was no guesswork involved. Smart Roofing will be handling all of our roofing needs from now on. I highly recommend their services to everyone.
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Charlie k profile picture
Charlie k
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I had a roof leak I couldn’t track down. Joe came out to take a look and had a tech come right over to solve the problem. Has been dry ever since!
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Gabby Bergeron profile picture
Gabby Bergeron
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Very responsive team, came to check our leaking skylight the same day when we contacted them late on a Friday, and Dale and team returned Sunday to start repairing the problem. Knowledgeable and helpful team and answered all our questions on other areas we were concerned with! Would absolutely recommend!
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Scott Morrell profile picture
Scott Morrell
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We discovered water damage on our ceiling, we were understandably concerned. Our roof had been installed six years ago, but the original roofing company was no longer in business, so we had no way to have the warranty honored. After seeing this company’s outstanding Google reviews, we decided to give them a call—and they absolutely lived up to their reputation. Dale returned our call within an hour and came to our home the very same day. He was honest, knowledgeable, and never pressured us. He took the time to explain the issue, gave us several options, and even shared ways we could potentially fix it ourselves. Since we’re much more comfortable staying on the ground than climbing onto a roof, we asked Dale to handle the repair. His pricing was more than fair and an incredible value. He completed the work the very next day and provided before-and-after photos so we could see exactly what had been repaired. It’s rare to find a company that genuinely makes you feel like they’re looking out for your best interests instead of trying to maximize the bill. We were so impressed with the quality of the service, honesty, responsiveness, and workmanship that we plan to use them again for some upcoming gutter work. We highly recommend this company to anyone looking for reliable, trustworthy, and reasonably priced roofing services!
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david mastopietro profile picture
david mastopietro
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They came and gave me an estimate for a roof repair yesterday. They finished up the job today and did a great job. Price was more than fair and nice people.
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Ross Whiting profile picture
Ross Whiting
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Dale and his crew are very dedicated to their work. They pay attention to detail and have an excellent work ethic. They made sure everything was cleaned up before leaving each day. Great communication - they kept us informed throughout the project. Highly recommend!
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Smart Roofing and Sheet Metal Standards

What To Consider When Choosing a Roofing and Solar Contractor

When selecting a roofing contractor, homeowners should consider several key factors to ensure a successful project:

Licensing and Insurance

Always choose a licensed and insured contractor to protect yourself from liability and ensure compliance with local building codes.

Local Reputation and Reviews

Research customer reviews and ask for references to gauge the contractor’s reliability and quality of work.

Detailed Written Estimate

A reputable contractor will provide a detailed written estimate outlining the scope of work, materials, and costs involved.

Warranty and Service

Ensure the contractor offers a solid warranty and stands behind their work with excellent customer service.

Get A Solar Installation with New Roof Estimate

If you’re considering a new roof and solar installation or maybe you know your ready, trust Smart Roofing and Sheet Metal Company to deliver outstanding results. Take the next step today by getting your free estimate and Smart Roofing consultation.