Solar on an Older Cleburne Roof: Get the Roof Right First

Half of the homes in Cleburne were built before 1983 (U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020-2024). Many have had roofs replaced over the years, but the decking and framing are often original. That is fine if they are sound, and a problem if they are not.

The same survey shows that about 60% of Cleburne homes are owner-occupied. If you rent, talk to the property owner before anything else. If you own, an inspection tells you whether to install now, repair first or replace the roof first.

Ventilation is worth checking at the same time. Panels shade part of the roof, but the attic still has to move heat out through ridge and soffit vents. Blocking those vents with rails or panels can shorten the life of the shingles you are trying to protect. Read how roof ventilation protects your home.

NOAA's Storm Prediction Center logged 53 hail reports within 10 miles of Cleburne from 2015 through 2024, including 3-inch hail on May 3, 2021. Large hail can crack panel glass and damage frames, and it can hit the roof around the array as well.

Before you install, ask your insurer how rooftop panels are treated under your homeowner's policy. After big storms, have the panels and roof checked together. Our guide on what to do after a hailstorm damages your roof lists the steps.

Shingles tested to UL 2218 Class 4 are one option to consider if you are replacing the roof before going solar, since the roof will be harder to reach once the panels are on. They resist impact better but are not hail-proof. Learn more about our solar panel installation service.