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Frequently Asked Questions

Keeping your home protected from the elements and saving money on energy bills are both top priorities for homeowners. At Kelly Roofing, we understand that, which is why we offer a comprehensive range of roofing and solar services under one roof (pun intended!). This FAQ page is designed to answer your questions about both roofing and solar, helping you make informed decisions about your home. Whether you need a new roof or are considering the switch to solar power, we’re here to guide you through the process. If you have any questions that aren’t answered here feel free to contact us!

Roofing & Solar FAQ

It depends on the type of roof. Shingle roofs can last anywhere from 18-25 years. Metal roofs can last up to 40 years depending on the finish. Tile roofs can last 10-50 years depending on the installation. Click here to learn more about how long you can expect your roof to last in Florida.

It depends on various factors, such as how old your roof is, how much damage there is, and more. Make sure to check with a reputable roofing company and get their opinion. Check out our guide to learn more about whether you should repair or replace your roof.

It’s going to depend on a lot of different factors, such as how large and complex your roof is, what type of roofing material you want, how many features your roof has, and more. Check out our detailed guide to learn more about how much you can expect to pay for a roof replacement.

Large amounts of damaged or missing shingles, leaks, higher than average energy bills, granule loss, sagging roof deck, and roof nearing the end of its lifespan are all signs your roof may need to be replaced. Make sure to check with multiple reputable roofing contractors to obtain opinions on whether you need a replacement or a repair.

It’s going to depend on a few personal preferences such as how much you want to spend, where you live, desired roof lifespan, aesthetic preference, and style of home. Asphalt shingles will be more cost effective but won’t last as long as metal or tile roofs. Ultimately, the best way to decide on the best roofing material for your house is to consult with a qualified roofing contractor.

It depends on the size and complexity of your roof. The type of material will also determine the time it takes to replace your roof. Metal roofs may require more specialized installation techniques that can add time. Generally it will take a few days to finish a roof replacement, but it can take weeks if your roof is large and complex.

Most roofing work should not be done by yourself. Professional roofing contractors are trained to safely and efficiently repair or replace roof systems. You can damage your roof system by using improper roofing techniques and severely injure yourself by falling off of or through your roof.

Maintenance performed by home and building owners should be confined to inspecting roof systems during the fall and spring to check for cracked or curling shingles and cleaning gutters filled with dead leaves and other debris. If you inspect your roof yourself, use a firmly braced or tied-off ladder equipped with rubber safety feet. Wear rubber-soled shoes and stay on the ladder, (and off the roof system), if possible.

Yes, all of our roof installations are covered by comprehensive manufacturer and workmanship warranties.

Yes and yes! Feel free to verify our license status at myfloridalicense.

Yes, solar panels work on cloudy days, but they will generate less electricity than on a bright, sunny day. The thicker the clouds, the less sunlight reaches the panels, and the lower the electricity output. On a completely overcast day, you might only get 10-25% of the energy production compared to a clear day.

 The typical lifespan for solar panels is around 25-30 years. This means they will continue to generate electricity for that period, although efficiency may gradually decline. Most reputable solar panel manufacturers offer production warranties for 25 years or more. This warranty guarantees a minimum level of power output during that timeframe.

Solar panels are known for being relatively low maintenance. Unlike complex machinery with moving parts, solar panels are solid-state devices. They require very little maintenance to function properly. The most common maintenance task is cleaning the panels to remove dust, dirt, bird droppings, or other debris that can block sunlight and reduce efficiency. How often you need to clean depends on your location and environment. In general, cleaning 2-4 times a year is recommended. If you live in a dusty area or near trees, you might need to clean them more often. Due to the amount of rainfall in Florida you won’t have to clean solar panels very often.

The cost of a solar system depends on a number of factors, including the size of the system, the type of panels you choose, and your location. However, you can expect to pay somewhere in the range of $8,500 to $30,500 for a solar system for your home, with the average system costing around $15,000. There are also federal and state incentives that can help bring down the cost of solar panels. For example, the federal solar tax credit allows you to deduct 30% of the cost of your solar system from your federal income taxes. If you’re considering going solar, it’s a good idea to get quotes from a few different solar installers. This will help you get a better sense of the costs involved and find the best deal for your home. Feel free to use our solar pricing tool to get a general idea of how much a solar system will cost.

While an exact amount is difficult to say without knowing your specifics, Florida homeowners can expect to see significant savings on their electric bills with solar panels. Studies suggest Florida homeowners can save over $21,000 on electricity costs over the lifespan of their solar panel system, after the initial investment pays back. In terms of monthly savings, estimates range from $100 to $150 on your electric bill. There’s a few factors that help determine how much you can save with solar. The higher your current electric bill, the more solar power can potentially save you. Florida’s electricity rates are on the rise, so the potential savings from solar are expected to increase over time. Federal and state tax credits can bring down the cost of solar panels, impacting your overall savings.

The best way to know if your roof is certified for solar panels is to check with a certified solar installer. Here are some good indicators that your roof is a good candidate for solar:

  • Pitch: Ideally, your roof should have a pitch between 15 and 40 degrees. This angle allows for maximum sun exposure throughout the day. Steeper roofs can also work, but may be more difficult and expensive to install on. Flat roofs are generally not suitable for solar panels.
  • Direction: South-facing roofs are ideal, as they receive the most sunlight throughout the day. East or west-facing roofs can still be viable options, but they may generate slightly less power.
  • Shading: Areas of significant shading from trees, chimneys, or other structures can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your solar panels.
  • Age and Material: Your roof should be in good condition and have a remaining lifespan that justifies the investment in solar panels. Most solar panels come with warranties lasting 20-25 years, so you’ll want a roof that will last at least that long. Asphalt shingle roofs are the most common type compatible with solar panels.

Yes, we are a certified Tesla Powerwall installer.