Sloped Roof Solar Panel Installation and Re-Roof One of the primary considerations when deciding to install solar panels on any roof is to determine the age and condition of the roof. The cost of removal and replacement of solar panels, to allow for re-roofing, can decrease the overall system savings. A wise solar purchase may include having a re-roof performed a year or so sooner, or to postpone the solar installation for a season. Below is a step by step installation of solar panel mounting procedures used for a ten panel pool heating system, that is incorporated into the construction a new roof. The panels are installed on top of a garage roof, with 5 panels on either side, with a west to east orientation. This installation process allows for no penetrations to be made in the new roof, and a structural attachment of the racking system. STEP 1. Use metal mounts bolted into rafters for structurally secure attachments. "Fast Jack" solar mounts - (a unique patent pending design)   STEP 2. Align the mounts on top of rafters, pre drill and bolt the mounts, place flashings.     STEP 3. Install the mounts in the correct position for the solar panel racking. Have the roof installed around the solar panel mounts.     STEP 4. Attach brackets to mounts, install redwood stringers. We use redwood for pool systems to keep dissimilar metals from touching. For D.H.W. panels and Photovoltaic panels we use "Super-Strut" metal channel.       STEP 5. Place the solar panels into position. Secure each panel with 8 2" screws tightened through each solar panel into the redwood stringers. Attach EPDM rubber and stainless steel band-seal couplers between the solar panels.     STEP 6. To attach PVC pipe to the panels, use a copper MIP (male threaded fitting) soldered onto the solar panel manifold. Thread a PVC FIP (female threaded fitting) onto the mail copper fitting, don't forget the Teflon tape on the male fitting. Installing a 10 foot section of 1 1/2" copper pipe to the solar panel that is connected to the return piping will act as a heat sink, preventing the PVC pipe from becoming overheated. A vacuum breaker needs to be installed to allow air into the panels when the pump shuts off. Keeping the panels drained will prevent freeze damage. The system below has a 3/8" copper bleed line across the back side of the garage to allow water to drain back into the pool.     STEP 7. This pool heating installation will last for decades. This mounting system will allow leaves and debris from neighboring trees to shed the roof, preventing accumulation under the panels, which leads to roof rot. These panels are structurally attached, they will not blow off of the roof. The all metal panels in this installation will not begin to sag in the future.