Leaking Skylight? Causes, Prevention, and How to Repair Yourself
Skylights and roof windows are a great way to bring natural light and fresh air into any home. However, a leaking skylight can cause many problems for a homeowner.
A skylight leak can happen for a number of reasons, and it’s important to understand the cause to correct the issue.
While some solutions may require a little effort, such as a DIY fix, more complex repairs will need a professional roofing contractor. For commercial structures, make sure the contractor has the necessary credentials.
In this article, we will explore the various causes of skylight leaks and provide solutions to help homeowners address the issue. We will also discuss the importance of safety and recommend professional skylight roof installers for those who may not be comfortable with a DIY solution.
Key Takeaways
- Skylight leaks can cause significant problems for homeowners, but there are solutions available.
- Understanding the cause of the leak is crucial to correcting the issue.
- For complex repairs, it’s important to call a professional skylight roof installer with credentials.
Are There Any Skylight Leaks?
Skylights are a great way to bring natural light into a room, but they can also cause problems if they start to leak.
There are a few common causes of skylight leaks, including condensation, heavy rain, and problems with the skylight itself.
In this section, we will explore each of these causes in more detail and provide tips for how to fix them.
Leaks in Cold Weather
If you notice that your skylight is leaking during cold weather, it may be due to condensation.
When warm, moist air meets a cold surface, it can create water that drips into the room.
To determine if condensation is the problem, monitor the skylight during different weather patterns.
Clouds on the surface or an appearance of wetness during cooler temperatures with no rainfall should be an indication that condensation is the issue. Other signs of condensation include fog on interior windows, mold/mildew, and peeling paint.
Cooking and drying clothes can also contribute to condensation if there is inadequate ventilation to remove the warm, moist air.
Leaks in Heavy Rain
If your skylight is leaking during heavy rain, it is likely due to a structural problem.
Flashing can rust over time, caulking can shrink or crack, and seals can rot, allowing water to pass through into your home.
If you are uncomfortable getting on the roof to check for these problems, call a roofing contractor.
If the flashing is the problem, replacing the entire skylight or roof window may be necessary.
If there is a small gap at the flashing, it can be sealed with caulking or external silicone.
Observe the skylight or roof window for the next couple of weeks to ensure that the repair has succeeded.
Leak Between the Glass and the Skylight Frame
If you see a leak between the glass and the frame of the skylight, it is likely due to weather seals drying out and shrinking.
Once this happens, the waterproof seal has been breached, allowing water to enter.
To fix this problem, use caulking around the glass. Make sure it is a dry day, and you have had a few consecutive dry days. Otherwise, any water between the glass will fog up.
Leak Between the Skylight Frame and the Roof
If your skylight leaks and the ceiling around the skylight frame appears damp or feels wet, the problem is likely with the roof.
This is a flashing problem, as degradation of the flashing is allowing water penetration.
To confirm the problem, call a reputable roofer for an inspection.
Upon confirmation of the flashing problem, the roofer can replace the flashing.
If the problem is due to poor installation of the skylight, the roofer will need to address the inadequacies of the work and bring it up to standard.
Leaks Due to Flashing
Flashing is an important component of a skylight, as it serves as a watertight seal between the skylight and the cut-in of the roof. However, over time, flashing can develop gaps and cracks, leading to leaks.
How to Repair
If the flashing is the source of the leak and is in good condition, it can be repaired by sealing the gap with roofing cement or caulking.
Start by clearing debris from around the flashing for a visual inspection. If the flashing is damaged or corroded, it may need to be replaced.
To replace the flashing, follow these steps:
- Remove the shingles or roofing material around the skylight.
- Remove the old flashing with a putty knife and pry bar.
- Install new step flashing and nail it to the roof deck.
- Apply roofing cement to seal the flashing in place.
- Replace the shingles or roofing material around the skylight.
After the repair, observe the skylight for the next few weeks to ensure that the repair has been successful. If the leak persists, it may be necessary to replace the entire skylight or roof window.
Poorly Installed Roofs or Skylights
Poor installation is a common cause of leaks in roof windows and skylights.
If you notice water entering your home just after installation, it’s crucial to contact the contractor who installed it to come back and fix the issue.
Poor installation can lead to structural damage, rotted roof framing, and wet, moldy insulation. It’s important to ensure that the installation is done correctly to avoid these issues.
Broken Closing Mechanism
How to Repair
To fix a faulty skylight with a broken closing mechanism, first, ensure that there is no debris blocking the skylight’s path.
Clear any debris to ensure a solid seal when the skylight is closed.
It’s also important to prevent leaves and twigs from accumulating around the skylight.
Although you can’t always stop branches and other impediments from blocking your skylight, vigilance is the best option to prevent material from amassing at the skylight.
If the closing mechanism is still faulty, it may be necessary to replace the skylight’s mechanical components.
This repair should only be done by a professional to ensure that the skylight is functioning correctly and providing a leak-proof seal.
Regular maintenance of your skylight can prevent these issues from occurring.
It’s recommended to inspect and clean your skylight at least twice a year to ensure its mechanical proficiency and prevent costly repairs.
Roof Leaks
How to Repair
Roofs are prone to leaks, and it is essential to take action as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
A leaky roof may be the cause of a skylight leak, and it is vital to inspect the roof for any signs of damage or discoloration around the skylight or further up the roof.
Missing or damaged shingles on the roof are also a sign of a problem, indicating that water has found an entry point, and the skylight is not the problem.
Minor repairs, such as replacing damaged or missing shingles, may be sufficient for a leaky roof.
However, depending on the roof’s age, restoring or replacing the entire roof may be necessary.
It is recommended to have a roofing contractor inspect the roof to assess the situation accurately.
To prevent future roof leaks, it is essential to maintain the roof properly.
Regular inspections, cleaning the gutters, and fixing any damages promptly can help prolong the roof’s life and prevent leaks.
Professional Skylight Roof Installer Recommendation
Sourcing the Leak
A professional skylight roof installer recommends sourcing the leak before attempting any repairs.
Water between the sash and frame is typically due to a problem with the skylight or roof window. However, if the leak is between the window and reveal or the wall, it could indicate an installation problem. To reduce the chances of this happening, an underfelt collar should be used during installation.
It’s important to note that where water drips from and where it appears are two different things. The water you see may not be the actual leak point.
In many instances, the water enters the home through a hole or gap in the roof. Therefore, it’s crucial to identify the actual leak point to effectively troubleshoot and solve the problem.
Installation
Flashing Installation
Proper flashing installation is essential to prevent gaps that can lead to leaks.
The flashing kit must match the installed skylight product to ensure compatibility with the roofing system.
The correct type of kit should be used to prevent any gaps from appearing, thus preventing leaks.
The installation of a rubber gasket between the flashing and the skylight frame can help create a watertight seal.
Clear silicone caulk or silicone sealant can also be used to seal any gaps that may appear.
Underfelt Collar Installation
Installation of an underfelt collar is a two-stage process for waterproofing.
A breathable membrane should be added as an extra layer of protection in case water finds its way in.
Poor underfelt installation can lead to leaks, and it might just be a condensation problem if the underfelt isn’t drying properly.
To ensure proper installation, the underfelt collar should be installed over the flashing and under the roofing material.
Clear silicone caulk or silicone sealant can be applied to seal any gaps between the underfelt collar and the skylight frame.
Frequently Asked Questions
To identify the cause of a skylight leak, one should start by inspecting the skylight and its surrounding area.
Some common causes of skylight leaks include improper installation, damaged flashing, cracked or broken glass, and clogged weep holes.
If the cause of the leak is not immediately apparent, it may be helpful to consult a professional.
The steps to fix a leak in a skylight depend on the cause of the leak.
For minor leaks, the first step is often to clear any debris from the weep holes and ensure that the skylight is properly sealed.
If the flashing is damaged, it may need to be replaced. In some cases, the glass may need to be replaced as well.
It is important to prioritize safety during the repair process and to consult a professional if necessary.
Yes, a skylight leak can be repaired on a flat roof. However, the repair process may be more challenging than on a sloped roof.
It is important to ensure that the repair is done properly to prevent future leaks.
The estimated cost for repairing a leaking skylight depends on the cause and extent of the damage.
Minor repairs such as clearing weep holes or replacing damaged flashing may cost a few hundred dollars.
More extensive repairs such as replacing the glass or repairing structural damage can cost several thousand dollars.
It is important to obtain an estimate from a reputable professional before proceeding with any repairs.
Whether homeowners insurance covers skylight leak repairs depends on the specific policy.
In some cases, the repairs may be covered if they are deemed to be the result of a covered peril such as a storm or fire.
It is important to review the policy carefully and to consult with the insurance provider to determine coverage.
A professional should be contacted for a leaking skylight if the cause of the leak is not immediately apparent. They should also be contacted if the repair process is beyond the homeowner’s skill level.
Additionally, if the leak is causing significant damage or if there is a risk of injury during the repair process, it is important to consult a professional.
