NEWS

Solar power is a long-term investment, but its success depends on what sits beneath it. Installing solar panels on an ageing or compromised roof can lead to leaks, structural issues and costly rework. For South African businesses, preparing the roof properly before solar installation is critical to protecting both the building and the energy system. This guide explains why roof refurbishment and waterproofing should come first, and how the right preparation sets your solar project up for long-term performance.

Introduction

As energy costs rise and load shedding continues to disrupt operations, more South African businesses are turning to solar power to secure energy independence. While solar panels offer clear long-term savings, one critical step is often overlooked – ensuring the roof is fit for purpose before installation.

Solar panels are designed to last 20 years or more. Installing them on a roof that may need repairs or refurbishment within that timeframe creates unnecessary risk. Proper solar installation preparation starts with assessing and, where necessary, refurbishing the roof structure itself.

Why Roof Refurbishment Should Come Before Solar

Once solar panels are installed, accessing the roof becomes more complex and expensive. Any future repairs may require partial or full removal of panels, adding avoidable costs and downtime.

Roof refurbishment before solar installation ensures that:

• The roof can support the additional load of solar panels and mounting systems.
• Waterproofing systems are intact and future-proofed.
• Existing defects are addressed before they become hidden beneath panels.
• Warranties on both the roof and solar installation remain valid.

For facility managers and solar installers alike, this proactive approach reduces risk across the entire lifecycle of the system.

Common Roof Issues That Can Compromise Solar Installations

Before installing solar panels, roofs should be assessed for the following red flags:

Ageing or Degraded Roofing Materials

If a commercial roof is approaching the end of its design life, installing solar panels without refurbishment can shorten the lifespan of both systems. Refurbishment can extend roof life by decades, aligning it with the lifespan of the solar array.

Inadequate Waterproofing

Commercial roof waterproofing is essential, particularly in South Africa’s summer rainfall regions. Even small failures in waterproofing can lead to leaks that are difficult to detect once panels are installed.

Corrosion or Structural Wear

Metal roofs exposed to coastal air, industrial pollution or UV degradation may show early signs of corrosion. Without treatment, this corrosion can worsen beneath solar mounting points.

Poor Drainage or Water Ponding

Standing water around mounting systems increases the risk of leaks and long-term structural damage. Roof refurbishment allows drainage issues to be corrected before solar installation begins.

The Role of Commercial Roof Waterproofing in Solar Projects

Waterproofing is one of the most critical elements of solar installation preparation. Solar mounting penetrations must be properly sealed and integrated into existing waterproofing systems to prevent future failures.

A refurbished and waterproofed roof:

• Protects the building envelope from moisture ingress.
• Reduces long-term maintenance requirements.
• Supports warranty compliance for both roofing and solar systems.
• Improves overall roof performance and durability.

For businesses investing heavily in solar, waterproofing is not an optional extra – it is a foundational requirement.

Why Solar Companies Benefit from Roof Refurbishment Partnerships

For solar installation companies, partnering with a roof refurbishment specialist offers a significant competitive advantage. It allows solar providers to deliver a complete, risk-managed solution rather than a standalone installation.

These partnerships help:

• Reduce call-backs and post-installation issues.
• Protect installer reputations by minimising roof-related failures.
• Streamline project timelines through coordinated planning.
• Increase client confidence by addressing the full building envelope.

This integrated approach aligns solar performance with long-term building protection.

Why Choose DRAM for Roof Refurbishment Before Solar

DRAM brings extensive experience in commercial roof refurbishment, waterproofing and industrial coatings – making it an ideal partner for both building owners and solar installation companies.

By assessing roof condition upfront and delivering tailored refurbishment solutions, DRAM ensures roofs are structurally sound, watertight and ready to support solar systems for decades. This approach protects warranties, reduces risk and safeguards the full value of the solar investment.

Conclusion

Solar panels are only as reliable as the roof beneath them. Preparing your roof properly before installation is the smartest way to avoid future disruptions, protect your building and maximise return on investment. Through professional roof refurbishment before solar installation and robust commercial roof waterproofing, businesses can ensure their solar systems perform as intended for the long term.

Planning a solar installation? Speak to DRAM about preparing your roof for solar and protect your building, your energy system and your investment from day one.