Skylights are a great addition to any home. They help bring in more natural sunlight, which can lower your dependence on artificial lighting. As a result, your energy costs can go down. Not to mention, the heat skylights bring in from the sun can improve your home’s comfort in the winter. They can also contribute to lower heating costs as a direct result. The only drawback to a skylight is if it begins to leak. If you have a leaking skylight, odds are it’s because of one of the following four reasons.
1. The skylight wasn’t installed correctly
To install a skylight, you’re essentially creating a hole in the roof in which a window is being fitted. As you can imagine, if it’s not properly fitted, the skylight will be vulnerable to leaks since rain will come down on it directly. It’s one of the reasons why it’s so important that you hire a reputable, highly-qualified contractor to install your skylight. Poor installation as a result of a lack of experience and expertise (or, in some cases, a lack of care), can result in a leaky skylight.
2. The flashing needs to be replaced
The flashing is a metal component installed on the roof specifically to prevent leaks. If the flashing around your skylight wasn’t properly installed, is damaged, missing, or corroded, it can cause leaks. Fortunately, this is a simple fix — the flashing can be replaced without having to repair or replace the skylight itself.
In some cases, there may be a gap between the flashing and the skylight. This gap can be sealed with the use of roof cement.
3. The skylight wasn’t insulated properly
If the skylight isn’t properly insulated, it can cause condensation on the glass. This happens when warm air from inside the home rises and touches glass which is cold as a result of outdoor temperatures. Insulation will help prevent condensation.
4. Condensation is occurring
Condensation doesn’t just occur as a result of poor insulation. It can also be caused by debris causing a dam for condensation to seep indoors. Cracks in the skylight joints or corners, as well as damaged weather stripping, can be the culprit as well.
If your skylight is leaking or you’re interested in having a skylight correctly installed, then be sure to contact us at Surf & Turf Roofing. We are proud to serve the South Jersey area.
