Shingle to Shingle Solar Panel Reinstallation: What You Need to Know

If you’re replacing your shingle roof and have solar panels installed, you might wonder how the reinstallation process works. The good news: if it’s a shingle-to-shingle replacement, your existing system may only need a few updated parts—especially if it’s a rail-based system. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Railed Systems: Replace Only the Attachments

For systems installed with rails, the solar panels and rails can often be reused. The most common update needed is the replacement of the roof attachments. These are the components that anchor your system into the roof and must be reinstalled with new waterproofing to match the new shingles. Below is a general list of parts commonly needed to reinstall a 6kW rail-based system after a roof replacement:

• 8 × SMR100 Rails (168″) – rail tracks for mounting the panels
• 16 × Mid Clamps – to hold panels in the middle sections
• 16 × End Clamps – to secure panels at the ends
• 5 × Rail Splices – to connect and stabilize rail segments
• 4 × Ground Lug Kits – for grounding the system
• 8 × EPDM Rail End Caps – to seal off the ends of rails
• 35 × Nanomounts – rooftop mounts for securing rails to the roof
• 35 × Lag Bolts – for fastening mounts into the roof structure

These components ensure your system is securely and safely reinstalled with the new roof structure. Exact quantities may vary based on layout, roof size, and panel configuration.

✅ When is this option best?

If your system was originally installed on rails and all other components are in good condition, this is the most efficient and cost-effective way to reinstall your panels after a roof replacement.

2. Railless Systems: Consider Upgrading to Rails

Railless systems are more difficult and costly to reinstall. They depend on exact alignment and specialized mounts that may not be reusable. That’s why we often recommend switching to a rail system during reinstallation. The upfront investment is slightly higher, but the long-term benefits are significant.

Why Upgrade to a Rail System?

If your current solar setup is railless, the reinstallation process after a roof replacement can be complex. Railless systems are mounted directly to shingles with precise spacing—any shifts in roof layout can complicate the process and increase labor. That’s why many solar professionals—and roofing contractors—recommend switching to a rail system during reinstallation. The long-term advantages are compelling:

✅ 1. Easier Future Maintenance

With rails, panels can be removed or replaced one at a time, without disassembling the entire system. This makes service, repairs, or upgrades faster and more cost-effective.

✅ 2. Lower Labor Costs

Rail systems streamline installation, since there’s no need to mark and re‑drill individual mount locations for each panel. Installers work off a standardized track, reducing time and minimizing errors.

✅ 3. Better Structural Integrity

Rails distribute the weight of the solar array over multiple attachment points, reducing stress on the roof surface. In areas prone to strong winds or storms—like Florida—rails can enhance system resilience.

✅ 4. Cleaner Appearance and Alignment

Rails ensure all panels are aligned uniformly, giving a neater, more polished look. This helps maintain your home’s aesthetic appeal and perceived value over time.

✅ 5. Increased Flexibility for Future Upgrades

Thinking about expanding? Installing battery storage or upgrading to higher-output panels in the future is easier with a rail system. Rails offer modular mounting for a wide range of panel models and inverter configurations. Bottom line: When re-roofing and reinstalling a solar system, a rail-based design delivers improved reliability, easier maintenance, and better adaptability over time—making it a smart long-term investment.

3. Work with a Licensed Solar Reinstallation Company

Never let a general roofer or handyman handle the removal or reinstallation of your solar system. Doing so could void your warranty, damage components, or result in code violations. Our team at Removal Reinstall Solar Panels is licensed, insured, and experienced with all major systems—including railless upgrades. 📩 Get a Solar Panel Reinstallation Quote

Conclusion

Shingle-to-shingle roof replacements are one of the most straightforward situations for solar panel removal and reinstallation. If you already have a rail system, you’re in luck—most of your system can be reused. If you have a railless system, it’s a great opportunity to upgrade and reduce future costs. Either way, we’re here to make the process easy, safe, and cost-effective.

These components ensure your system is securely and safely reinstalled with the new roof structure. Exact quantities may vary based on layout, roof size, and panel configuration. Learn more about SunModo rail systems and how they support long-term solar performance.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a site visit or get more information.