When is the best time to install solar tubes in relation to a new roof

Solatube Daylighting Systems come in 2 sizes, the 160 DS (10" in diameter) and the 290 DS (14"). The 160 DS produces up to 4600 lumens, while the 290 DS produces up to 9100 lumens. I have no idea what any other brand's lumen output is however, you will most always get more light with a Solatube brand due the fact that their tubing is made with Spectralight tubing (its patented) with 99.7% reflectivity. This means each time the light "bounces" down the tube, Solatube loses .3% of the light. With 5 "bounces" Solatube only loses 1.5%. If the tubing is less reflective - even by a couple of % points you potentially lose far more light.

Bottom line is you get much more pure light with a smaller opening. Not to mention the technology in the dome itself to capture more light in dawn and dusk hours and winter months.

Most areas have a dedicated Solatube dealer that can answer all your questions.

I wouldn't worry too much about it. The plywood is not typically supporting a load of more than the paper and asphalt shingles that were placed, even more so if you have a considerable pitch on your roof to where it would be difficult or impossible for a person to walk on. It basically serves so that you have something to nail the shingles down securely.

Most newer homes use plywood, I have an older home that used what looks like rough cut deck planks and those are mostly still original. The last time I had my roof replaced, they had to change out a few boards that were terribly dry rotted and some that were badly damaged from previous water damage by the oh-so responsible homeowners who had the home before me. Other older boards look noticeably damaged by the most recent nails but they continue to hold down the shingles and I would still feel safe to stand on my roof.

As long as the shingles are doing their job then the plywood will not be exposed to any water, and as long as your attic has good ventilation during the summer time then you should have nothing to worry about for the next 15-20 years at least.