Common Problems Associated with Skylights & How to Fix Them

Are Skylights Prone to Leaks?

No, if properly installed and well-maintained, skylights are not prone to leaks. However, leaks are the primary concern whenever anything is installed on your roof. Consequently, many mechanisms are in place to ensure that your skylight doesn’t leak.

To install a skylight, a hole must be cut into your roof, including your roofing material. Therefore, the installation process must ensure that the skylight’s area is protected from leaks. The primary way skylight leaks are prevented is by installing metal flashing. Flashing (and related components) must be installed correctly and in the correct order to ensure that it is watertight.

Other common problems associated with skylights:

  • Cracked or broken glass
  • Ventilation issues
  • Broken parts
  • Condensation
  • Fogging
  • Broken open/close mechanisms

Signs Your Skylight Needs Repair

You may have heard someone say that all skylights will eventually leak. This is true in the same sense that it is true that all roofing materials will eventually degrade and need to be replaced. However, with proper maintenance and care, you can expect to enjoy the full lifespan of your skylight (typically around ten years, though newer skylights are expected to last upwards of 15 years). It is also crucial for homeowners to be aware of the signs of a skylight problem or leak.

Your skylight may need repair if you notice any of the following issues:

  • Condensation or fogging on the glass
  • Moisture inside your home around the skylight
  • Damp or wet floors beneath your skylight
  • Visible damage, such as cracks or rust
  • Signs of water damage in your roofing surrounding the skylight
  • Your skylight or roof window won’t open or close
  • Powered mechanisms stop working or malfunction
  • Tinting or other finishes on the glass is damaged or peeling
  • Flashing is rusty, missing, or damaged

If you notice any of these signs, call Lyons Roofing and schedule a repair inspection with one of our skylight specialists.

Can I Repair a Skylight on My Own?

DIY skylight repairs are never recommended. This is because of the risk of further damage to your skylight and roof. Because they are located on your roof, accessing your skylight to perform work can also come with some risk. From using ladders to access your skylight to walking on your roof, the risk of accident or injury is high. With these things in mind, if you are having problems with your skylight, you should call our roofers for help and avoid attempting any skylight repairs yourself.

Want to know more about skylights? Keep reading for three quick facts about skylights.

Quick Facts: Skylights

Did you know that there are two different types of skylight installation? The two methods for skylight installation are deck-mounted and curb-mounted. Deck-mounted skylights are installed in your roof decking, while curb-mounted skylights are set in a curb which is then attached to the roof. Curb-mounted skylights are less likely to leak but are significantly more expensive than traditional deck-mounted skylights.

Did you know that skylights and roof windows are two different things? Though both are set into your roof structure and look similar, skylights and roof windows have one key difference. Most skylights are fully fixed and do not open. Meanwhile, roof windows are designed to open and close like a regular window and frequently feature screens, thereby providing both extra lighting and increased ventilation.

Did you know that skylights can make your home more attractive to potential buyers? It’s true! Many homebuyers want homes with lots of natural light and interesting architectural elements. Skylights provide both. Additionally, as previously mentioned, skylights can help make your home’s HVAC systems more efficient, translating into monthly utility savings for buyers.

To learn more about skylights, review these past blogs:

If you need skylight repair, replacement, or installation, reach out to the pros at Lyons Roofing. We are always here to help, rain or shine.

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