How much does it cost to waterproof a rooftop solar system?

Improperly waterproofing a rooftop solar system is expensive. The labor costs to repair smaller leaks often range between $500 and $1,000. If the problem is bigger, flashed mounts or the whole roof may need replaced.

Can solar roof attachments cause water intrusion?

Installing solar roof attachments requires drilling dozens of holes through roofing material, making any roof vulnerable to water intrusion. Given this reality, it’s important to understand how water intrusion (and the resulting building damage) occurs and ways installers can prevent it from happening.

How do waterproof membranes work?

Waterproof membranes work by sealing every seam, crack and crevice. This roofing method results in a watertight membrane that protects in the heaviest rains, even when ponding occurs, for 20 to 30 years. These roofing systems require a qualified roofer to seal every penetration, taking great care for long-term reliability.

Are there good waterproofing options?

Today, nonetheless, there are good waterproofing options on the market that provide durability, resilience, adaptability and, above all, avoid headaches and fights between builders and owners.

What is the best roofing sealant for solar panels?

Asphaltic roofing cement (mastic) with reinforcing mesh is a code approved method for sealing underlayment flashings below tile, and it is also used as sealant on shingles, but most solar installers rely on roofing sealants like those from Chemlink and Geocel. These synthetic sealants can provide decades of performance when properly applied.

Can a roof be waterproofed?

Image Cortesia de Elevate Based on these possibilities, it is possible to waterproof several types of roofs. Green roofs, for example, have been encouraged and are increasingly appearing in cities, as they contribute to the thermal insulation of buildings, reduce urban heat islands and create natural landscapes.