If you are replacing your roof or repairing hail damage in Colorado, there is a good chance your solar panels need to come off before any work begins. Most roofing companies are not equipped to handle solar removal, which is why homeowners, roofers, and insurance teams often rely on a dedicated detach and reset (D&R) service.
This guide explains how the process works, what it costs, how long it takes, and what to expect if your home is in the Denver or Colorado Springs area.
What Is Solar Panel Detach and Reset?
Detach and reset is the process of shutting down, removing, storing, and reinstalling your solar panels so that roofing or repair work can be completed safely. A proper D&R includes:
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Shutting down the system at the inverter and breakers
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Removing panels and racking
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Labeling and storing all equipment
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Reinstalling the system once the roof is complete
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Checking wiring, grounding, and system operation
Colorado homeowners typically need D&R for roof replacements, hail repairs, wind damage, and system upgrades.
Why Solar Panels Must Come Off Before Roof Work
Colorado roofs take a beating from sun exposure, hail, and high winds. Roofers cannot install new shingles or underlayment with panels in the way, and working around the array often leads to broken glass, damaged wiring, or compromised waterproofing.
A clean removal protects the roof warranty and ensures your system works the way it should when the project is complete.
How Much Does Solar D&R Cost in Colorado?
Most Colorado homeowners can expect the cost to fall between $1,500 and $4,000, depending on:
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The number of panels
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Roof pitch and height
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Type of inverter or microinverter setup
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Age of the system
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Storage needs
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Extent of storm damage
Insurance may cover part or all of the D&R cost when the work is related to hail or wind damage. Every policy is different, so homeowners should confirm with their adjuster.
How Long Does Solar Removal and Reinstallation Take?
Most detach jobs take one to two days, depending on the size of the array.
Reinstallation also typically takes one to two days.
Your roofing contractor will install the new roof in the gap between these two steps. A good D&R company will coordinate with your roofer to make sure the schedule stays on track.
Hail Damage and Solar Systems in Colorado
Colorado experiences some of the highest hail activity in the country, especially around Denver, Lakewood, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, and Colorado Springs. After a storm, panels may show cracks, broken backing sheets, failed optimizers, or loose wiring.
A detach and reset allows roofers and insurance adjusters to inspect everything safely and accurately.
What Happens During a Typical D&R?
Homeowners can expect the following steps:
1. System Shutdown
The crew powers down the system, disconnects the inverter, and ensures everything is safe to handle.
2. Removal
Panels are removed one at a time, checked for visible issues, and labeled so they can be reinstalled in the correct order.
3. Hardware Removal
Racking and wiring clips are taken off as needed.
4. Storage
Panels are stored securely until the roofing project is finished.
5. Reinstallation
Rails, flashing, panels, wiring, and grounding are reinstalled. Everything is put back according to manufacturer standards.
6. Testing
The system is powered on, and the crew checks for proper communication and operation.
Can Roofers Remove Solar Panels?
Most cannot. Roofers are not trained in solar wiring, grounding, electrical disconnects, or microinverter handling.
Improper removal can lead to broken modules, electrical hazards, or failed inspections.
It is always best to hire a team that specializes in solar D&R.
Colorado Service Areas
Slap My Glass – Solar serves homeowners and roofing companies throughout the Colorado Front Range, including:
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Denver
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Lakewood
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Littleton
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Morrison
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Highlands Ranch
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Aurora
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Arvada
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Westminster
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Colorado Springs
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Surrounding communities
If you are anywhere along the Front Range, you are within reach.
How to Request a D&R Quote
The process is simple:
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Fill out the contact form on our site
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Provide your address and the number of panels
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We send a fast, detailed estimate
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We coordinate with your roofer to schedule removal and reinstallation
Final Thoughts
Solar detach and reset is a critical step in any roof replacement or storm repair project. When handled by a professional team, it protects your solar equipment, preserves your roof warranty, and keeps your project running smoothly.
If you need reliable solar panel removal and reinstallation in Colorado, Slap My Glass – Solar is ready to help.