What to Know About Clad Solar & Roofing in South Carolina
Clad Solar & Roofing offers residential roofing and solar installation across South Carolina
Clad Solar & Roofing is a South Carolina-based contractor that handles both traditional roof replacement and solar panel systems for homeowners. The company operates across the state and focuses on residential properties, combining two services that often work together—a new roof can be the right time to add solar, since both involve structural work on your home's exterior.
If you are considering a roof replacement or exploring solar options, understanding what a contractor offers, how they work, and what to expect from the process helps you make an informed decision about your home.
Key Takeaways
- Clad Solar & Roofing handles both roof replacement and solar installation, so you can coordinate both projects if needed.
- You should verify the company's licensing, insurance, and references before signing any contract for roofing or solar work.
- Roof replacement typically takes several days to a few weeks depending on your home's size and weather; solar installation adds additional time if done simultaneously.
- Getting multiple quotes from different contractors helps you compare pricing, materials, and warranty terms before committing.
- South Carolina's climate—heat, humidity, and occasional severe weather—affects both roof durability and solar panel performance over time.
What Clad Solar & Roofing does and doesn't cover
The company's primary services are roof replacement and solar panel installation. Roof work includes removing old roofing material, inspecting the underlying structure, and installing new shingles or other roofing materials. Solar installation involves mounting panels on your roof, running electrical connections, and connecting the system to your home's power supply or to the grid.
Before contacting the company, clarify what you actually need. If your roof is leaking but still structurally sound, you may need repair rather than full replacement—and not all contractors handle both equally well. If you are interested in solar, ask whether the company handles the full installation or partners with electricians and other specialists for parts of the job.
How to verify a roofing and solar contractor
South Carolina requires roofing contractors to be licensed. Before hiring Clad Solar & Roofing or any contractor, check their license status through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (SCDHEC). You can search for active licenses online to confirm the company is current and in good standing.
Request proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. Roofing and solar work involve heights and electrical systems—if a worker is injured on your property or damage occurs, insurance protects both you and the contractor. Ask for references from recent projects in your area, and contact at least two or three to ask about the quality of work, timeline, and how the company handled any issues that arose.
Get the contract in writing before work begins. It should specify the materials being used, the total cost, the start and end dates, what happens if weather delays the project, and the warranty on both labor and materials. A clear contract prevents misunderstandings later.
Roof replacement timeline and what to expect
A typical roof replacement takes three to seven days for a single-story home, longer for larger or more complex roofs. The contractor will remove old roofing, inspect the decking underneath, make any necessary repairs, and install new material. You may hear noise and see debris during this time, and the crew will need clear access to your roof and yard.
Weather affects the schedule significantly. Rain or high winds can halt work, pushing the timeline back. South Carolina's summer heat and occasional tropical storms mean planning around the season matters—summer work may be slower due to heat, while hurricane season (June through November) can cause delays if storms approach.
If you are combining roof and solar work, the roof typically goes first. Once the new roof is in place and has time to settle, solar panels are mounted on top. This adds one to two weeks to the overall project timeline.
Solar installation and how it connects to your roof
Solar panels are mounted directly to your roof using brackets that attach to the underlying structure. The installation includes running electrical conduit from the panels down the side of your home to an inverter (which converts DC power to AC power your home uses) and a meter that tracks energy production and use.
South Carolina has good solar potential, especially in the Lowcountry and coastal areas where cloud cover is less frequent. However, roof condition matters—if your roof needs replacement within the next five to ten years, it makes sense to do that before going solar. Removing panels to replace a roof underneath is expensive and time-consuming.
Ask the contractor about monitoring systems that let you track your solar production in real time, warranty coverage on panels and inverters, and how the system integrates with your utility company's net metering program (if available in your area). South Carolina's net metering rules vary by utility, so understanding your specific situation helps you calculate long-term savings.
Pricing, warranties, and what affects the cost
Roofing and solar costs vary widely based on your home's size, the materials chosen, local labor rates, and the complexity of the installation. A new roof for a 2,000-square-foot home might range from several thousand dollars depending on whether you choose asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or other materials. Solar costs depend on system size (measured in kilowatts), equipment quality, and installation complexity.
Get quotes from at least three contractors before deciding. Each quote should break down materials, labor, and any additional costs. Compare not just the total price but what is included—some contractors offer longer warranties on labor, others on materials, and some include monitoring or maintenance visits.
Ask about financing options. Many solar companies offer loans, leases, or power purchase agreements that spread costs over time. Roofing contractors may work with financing partners as well. Understanding your payment options helps you plan the expense.
South Carolina weather and long-term roof and solar durability
South Carolina's climate—hot, humid summers and occasional severe weather—puts stress on roofs and solar systems. Asphalt shingles can degrade faster in intense heat and humidity. Metal roofing and architectural shingles tend to hold up better but cost more upfront. Solar panels are durable, but dust, salt spray (near the coast), and debris can reduce efficiency over time.
Ask the contractor what maintenance your roof and solar system will need. Most roofs benefit from inspection after major storms and cleaning of gutters and debris. Solar panels may need occasional cleaning, especially in dusty areas or near the coast. Understanding these needs helps you budget for upkeep and avoid surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a roof replacement or just a repair?
If you have isolated leaks, missing shingles, or damage from a storm, repair may be enough. If your roof is over 20 years old, has widespread damage, or leaks in multiple places, replacement is usually more cost-effective long-term. A contractor can inspect your roof and recommend which option makes sense for your situation.
Can I install solar panels on an old roof?
Technically yes, but it is not ideal. If your roof will need replacement in the next five to ten years, replacing it first saves you the cost and hassle of removing panels later. If your roof is relatively new and in good condition, solar installation can proceed without replacement.
What happens to my solar system during a hurricane or severe storm?
Modern solar panels are designed to withstand high winds and heavy rain. During severe weather, the system typically shuts down automatically to protect equipment. After a storm, a contractor can inspect for any damage. Your homeowner's insurance usually covers solar panels the same way it covers your roof.
How long does a new roof last in South Carolina?
Asphalt shingles typically last 15 to 20 years in South Carolina's climate. Metal roofing and high-end architectural shingles can last 25 to 40 years or longer. The exact lifespan depends on the material, installation quality, maintenance, and how often severe weather affects your area.
What should I ask before signing a contract?
Ask about the contractor's license and insurance, the specific materials being used, the total cost and payment schedule, the timeline and what causes delays, the warranty on labor and materials, and what happens if problems arise after the work is done. Get everything in writing before work begins.