Why Reroofing is the Perfect Time to Go Solar: Maximizing Savings and Efficiency

When you're planning to reroof your home, it's an opportune moment to consider installing solar panels or solar tiles. Combining these two projects can lead to significant cost savings—potentially 10% to 20% off the solar installation costs—while enhancing your home's energy efficiency and value.

The Synergy of Reroofing and Solar Installation

The Opportunity

• Shared Access Costs: Both projects require roof access, so you can save on scaffolding and equipment setup.

• Labor Coordination: Coordinating the work can reduce labor hours and costs.

• Structural Preparation: Roofing professionals can ensure your roof is optimally prepared for solar installation.

• Aesthetic Integration: Installing solar tiles during reroofing provides a seamless look.

Understanding the Cost Breakdown

Typical Solar Installation Costs

According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average cost for installing a 4 kW solar panel system in the UK is between £5,500 and £8,0001.

Cost Components:

• Solar Panels and Equipment: £4,000 - £6,000

• Installation and Labor: £1,500 - £2,000

• Scaffolding: £800 - £1,5002

• Permits and Administrative Fees: £300 - £500

Reroofing Costs

The average cost to reroof a typical UK home ranges from £5,000 to £7,000, depending on materials and roof complexity3.

Potential Savings When Combining Projects

Breakdown of Combined Costs

Scenario: A homeowner needs to reroof and is considering adding a 4 kW solar panel system.

Separate Projects

Combined Projects

• Shared Scaffolding: Save up to £1,5002.

• Reduced Labor Costs: Potential savings of £500 to £1,000 due to coordinated labor4.

• Potential Contractor Discounts: Some companies offer discounts when bundling services.

Combined Cost Estimate:

Total Savings: £1,500, which is approximately 21% off the solar installation costs.

Explanation of Savings

• Scaffolding Savings: Eliminating duplicate scaffolding can save £800 to £1,500.

• Labor Efficiency: Coordinated scheduling reduces labor hours, saving £500 to £1,000.

• Administrative Efficiency: Streamlined permits and inspections may save on fees and time.

Solar Tiles vs. Solar Panels

Solar Panels

• Pros:

  • Lower cost.

  • Higher efficiency.

• Cons:

  • Visible installation on top of roofing material.

Solar Tiles

• Pros:

  • Seamless integration with roofing material.

  • Ideal during reroofing.

• Cons:

  • Higher cost—can be 50% to 100% more than panels5.

  • Slightly lower efficiency.

Cost Comparison Table

Case Study: Maximizing Savings

Homeowner Scenario:

• Location: Midlands, UK

• Roof Size: Suitable for a 4 kW system

• Project: Reroofing due to wear and tear

Financial Analysis

Option 1: Separate Projects

• Reroofing Cost: £6,000

• Solar Installation Cost: £7,000

• Total Cost: £13,000

Option 2: Combined Projects

• Combined Cost: £11,500 (as previously calculated)

• Total Savings: £1,500

Long-Term Benefits

• Energy Savings: Up to £400 per year on electricity bills1.

• Return on Investment: Payback period reduced due to initial savings.

• Increased Property Value: Solar installations can add £1,800 to £2,500 to property value6.

Additional Considerations

Aligning Lifespans

• Roof and Solar Alignment: Installing solar on a new roof ensures both systems last together, avoiding future costs of panel removal for roof repairs.

Structural Benefits

• Roof Reinforcement: Roofing work can reinforce structures to support solar panels, ensuring safety and compliance.

Financing and Incentives

• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Earn money by exporting surplus energy7.

• VAT Relief: Zero VAT on energy-saving materials until 20278.

Expert Insights

While the exact savings may vary, combining reroofing with solar installation can realistically save homeowners 10% to 20% on the solar installation costs. This synergy not only reduces overall expenses but also enhances your home's energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and property value. If you're planning to reroof, it's financially and practically advantageous to consider adding solar to your project.

Take the Next Step

If you're considering reroofing, consult both roofing and solar installation professionals to explore the benefits of combining these projects. This strategic approach can lead to meaningful savings and long-term advantages for your home and the environment.

Footnotes

1. Energy Saving Trust - Solar Panels Advice ↩ ↩2

2. Checkatrade - Scaffolding Cost Guide ↩ ↩2

3. Which? - Roof Replacement Cost ↩

4. Homebuilding & Renovating - Combining Roofing and Solar ↩

5. GreenMatch - Solar Tiles vs Panels ↩

6. MoneySuperMarket - Adding Value with Solar Panels ↩

7. GOV.UK - Smart Export Guarantee ↩

8. GOV.UK - VAT on Energy-Saving Materials ↩