Am getting different stories from roofers - is a galvanised iron klip lok roof a concern when installing solar panels? Have a few small rusted areas that i intented to have treated and painted over but one company is putting the wind up by insisting that the whole roof needs to be replaced. would appreciate an unbiased opinion
thanks
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1 year 8 months ago
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I hope this is unbiased enough: We are in the USA and you seem to be in Australia, so we can safely assume no vested interest in your outcome!
If your galvanized steel (iron) is rusted, then there is probably rust you cannot see - there may also be rust underneath that is reducing the thickness of the roofing material (caused by condensation).
Many solar panels come with a 25 year warranty. Will the roof last for that 25 years in its present condition?
Are you a homeowner? If so, you can imagine the trepidation of your roofer or solar installer about working upon your aged roof, covering it with solar, and hoping it doesn't leak during the next hurricane (cyclone).
If you are confident about the roof and you trust the mounting crew, then you could offer them a waiver of responsibility for any leaks if you don't want to replace the roof.
If you are an installer, then just keep in mind that the last person working on the roof pretty much assumes responsibility for any leaks in the eyes of the homeowner.