When it comes to solar, timing is everything – especially if your roof is past its prime. In this real-life project, the True Power Solar team walks you through why we’re replacing a 22-year-old roof before installing solar panels and a Tesla Powerwall battery.
Most Arizona homes still have builder-grade underlayment that fails long before the tiles show visible signs of wear. If you’re thinking about solar, your roof might not be ready – yet.
Let’s break down what this project involved and what Arizona homeowners should know about roofing lifespan, solar prep, and full-service energy upgrades.
Watch: What’s Under Your Tiles Might Surprise You
Here’s Jason from True Power Solar showing exactly why this roof needed a full underlayment replacement – and why it’s so important to inspect and upgrade your roof before installing solar panels or battery storage:
“The underlayment on this roof was 22 years old – still the original builder-grade paper. It looks fine from the outside, but underneath, it’s completely shot.”
Whether your roof is 15 or 25 years old, this quick walkthrough shows what can happen when the underlayment ages – and why replacing it before solar ensures your investment lasts for decades.
Why Underlayment Fails (Even if Your Tiles Look Fine)
This Arizona home had 22-year-old builder-grade TU43 underlayment – a common material used in new construction. The problem? It typically breaks down after 17–22 years, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks even if the tiles themselves appear intact.
To fix it the right way, we:
- Removed every roof tile
- Replaced all underlayment
- Installed new drip edge, bird stops, and wood support strips
- Repaired any damaged wood
This wasn’t just a patch job – it was a full system refresh, getting the roof structurally and functionally ready for solar.
Prepping for Solar the Smart Way
Why do the roof now? Simple: we’re also installing solar panels and a Tesla Powerwall battery.
Putting solar on an aging roof is a costly mistake. You risk having to remove and reinstall your panels just a few years later when the underlayment fails – doubling your labor cost.
By doing both together:
- We ensure seamless installation
- Avoid rework or additional roof tear-offs
- Bundle everything under one warranty and contractor
- Get the home solar-ready for 25+ years
Roofing + Solar = One Trusted Team
At True Power Solar, we do both roofing and solar under one roof (literally). That means:
- No delays or finger-pointing between contractors
- One crew, one schedule, one clear point of contact
- Combined warranties that protect your investment
We’re licensed, bonded, and insured with more than 17 years of Arizona roofing experience – and we’ve helped thousands of homeowners go solar the right way.
Thinking About Solar? Start With a Roof Inspection
If your roof is 15+ years old, don’t wait for a leak to make the decision for you. Whether or not you plan to go solar, your underlayment may already be compromised.
Let’s take a look and make sure your home is protected – and ready for whatever energy upgrades you’re planning.
Call (480) 925-9995 or contact us here to schedule your consultation today.
