Is Your Roof Ready for Solar Panels? What Toledo Homeowners Should Know

Adding solar panels is one of the smartest ways to lower energy bills, but the success of that project starts with your roof. If the surface under those panels can’t hold up for another 20 years, you’re setting yourself up for future repair costs.

Before you call a solar company, take a closer look at your roof or have a qualified roofer inspect it. In Toledo, our weather makes it even more important to confirm your roof is in good shape before making the switch to solar.

Check How Old Your Roof Is

A solid roof should last about 20 to 25 years if it’s made from asphalt shingles. Metal or tile can last longer. If your roof is near the end of its life, installing panels now isn’t the best idea. Once those panels go up, replacing the roof later means removing them first — and that can double the labor cost.

At Pro Craft Home Products, we regularly inspect roofs in Toledo before homeowners move forward with solar. It’s easier and cheaper to fix or replace a weak roof now than to do it after installation.

Inspect the Structure

Solar panels add extra weight to your home. It’s not much, but it matters. The roof framing and decking need to handle that load safely through heavy snow and strong winds.

A quick check by a roofing professional can confirm if:

• Rafters and trusses are solid

• Decking isn’t soft or sagging

• No hidden leaks are weakening the structure

If your roof can handle a Toledo winter, it can handle solar panels too.

Sunlight and Shade

Panels need steady sunlight to be worth the investment. A south-facing roof works best for our area. Shade from trees, chimneys, or nearby homes can reduce output. If you see large shaded spots most of the day, trimming branches or adjusting panel layout might solve it.

Your solar installer can map the sunlight exposure for your roof, but it helps to start with your own observation.

Homeowners are getting solar panels installed on their rooftops.

Roofing Material

Most Toledo homes use asphalt shingles, which work well with solar panels. Metal standing seam roofs are even better because the brackets can attach to the seams without drilling holes. Tile and flat roofs need special mounts but can still work.

A quick review by your roofer ensures the mounting system will seal tight and won’t void any warranties.

Handle Repairs First

Before any solar installation, your roof should be watertight. Small issues like cracked flashing, worn vents, or minor leaks can cause trouble once panels cover the surface.

ProCraft’s team checks every detail during inspection. Fixing small problems now prevents major ones later and helps protect your investment.

Keep Local Conditions in Mind

Toledo weather shifts fast. High winds, snow, and rain can test any roof. That’s why local experience matters. A roof built and inspected by a local contractor who understands our climate gives you confidence that your solar setup will last.

After installation, plan for one checkup a year. A quick look at mounts, sealants, and panels can keep everything secure and leak-free.

Final Word

Solar energy can save you money and increase your home’s value, but only if your roof is ready for it. The right move is to get a roof inspection before you sign a solar contract.

Pro Craft Home Products helps homeowners across Toledo prepare their roofs for solar installation. Our team evaluates structure, materials, and overall condition so you know your roof can handle the system safely.

Book Your Roof Inspection and find out if your home is ready for solar.