Installing solar panels is a big decision, but it starts with one very important question: is your roof ready?
Roof Is Ready for Solar
Learn how to evaluate whether your roof is a good fit for solar and roof is ready for solar—including age, orientation, and structural integrity.
1. Roof Age and Condition
Solar panels are designed to last for decades. That means your roof should too.
Ideal scenario: Your roof is 10 years old or newer and in good condition.
Needs review:Your roof is 15+ years old or shows signs of wear.
If your roof is approaching the end of its lifespan, we recommend replacing it before installing solar. It’s far cheaper and easier to do the roofing and solar at the same time.
Aurora Roofing & Solar specializes in roof and solar bundles, saving you time, money, and future labor.
2. Orientation and Pitch
The ideal roof for solar in Maine is:
South-facing (or southeast/southwest)
Between 20–45° slope
Receives direct sunlight for 4+ hours/day
That said, we’ve installed panels on east and west facing roofs with great results. Shading and tilt can be offset with system design and high efficiency panels.
3. Shading and Tree Coverage
Trees can reduce solar efficiency, but they don’t always disqualify a home.
Using satellite tools, we measure the sun exposure of your roof and calculate annual production including shade loss.
Minor trimming or selective removal of overhanging branches can dramatically increase system performance.
If your roof is too shaded, a ground mounted system or partial roof array might be the answer.
4. Roof Material Compatibility
Solar can be installed on:
Asphalt shingles
Standing seam metal
EPDM/rubber flat roofs
Screw down steel (with added mounts)
Older tile, wood shake, or heavily patched roofs may need reinforcement or replacement before panel installation.
5. Structural Integrity
We perform a structural assessment before installation to confirm that your roof can support the weight of the panels (about 3–5 lbs per square foot).
Snow load and wind resistance are especially important in Maine, and we make sure every system is up to code.
6. Access to Sunlight and Grid Connection
We also evaluate roof obstructions, like chimneys, dormers, or vent pipes, and the proximity to your electrical service panel. These affect layout, cost, and final system design.
If trenching or electrical upgrades are needed, we’ll let you know upfront—and include them in your quote
Not Sure Where You Stand?
We offer free roof inspections for homeowners considering solar. We’ll check everything age, angle, structure, materials and help you understand your options.
If it’s not ready for solar now, we’ll help you plan your next steps, including a roofing estimate if needed.
Ready to Find Out If Your Roof Is Ready?