Skylights are a wonderful addition to any home, bringing in natural light and providing an open, airy feel to spaces. However, like any part of your house, skylights can become damaged over time due to wear, weather, or poor installation. velux certified installer If you’ve noticed leaks, drafts, or cloudy glazing, it might be time to consider skylight repair. This guide covers the common issues, repair options, and tips to keep your skylight in top shape.

Common Skylight Problems

1. Leaks: One of the most common issues homeowners face with skylights is leaks. Water can seep through gaps around the skylight or from cracks in the glass. Leaks often occur due to worn-out seals, poor installation, or storm damage.
2. Cracked or Broken Glass: While skylights are generally durable, they are vulnerable to impact. A falling branch, hailstorm, or even an overzealous cleaning can crack or break the glass. This is not just an aesthetic problem, but also a functional one, as broken glass can cause drafts and moisture buildup.
3. Cloudy or Dirty Glazing: Over time, the glazing (the transparent material that covers the skylight) can become cloudy, especially if it’s made of plastic. This reduces the amount of light coming through and can impact the skylight’s energy efficiency. Dirt, grime, or chemical exposure can also cause glazing to discolor.
4. Drafts: Skylights that aren’t properly sealed can allow cold air to enter in winter or warm air in summer, leading to increased energy costs. Seals and flashing, which protect against drafts, can deteriorate over time, causing poor insulation performance.
5. Condensation: Condensation can form on the interior of your skylight when there’s a temperature difference between the indoor air and the glass surface. While this is often temporary, persistent condensation can lead to water damage and mold growth around the skylight.

Repairing a Skylight

1. Fixing Leaks

To repair a leaking skylight, start by identifying the source of the leak. If the problem is the flashing (the material around the skylight that directs water away), it might be loose or worn out. Replace or reapply flashing to create a watertight seal. If the seals around the skylight are damaged, you can replace them with new silicone-based sealant.

If the leak persists after these repairs, the glazing itself might be cracked or damaged, and you may need to replace the entire unit.

2. Replacing Broken Glass

For cracked or broken glass, you have two options:

• DIY repair: If the break is small and isolated, you might be able to fix it yourself. Purchase a glass repair kit, which includes adhesive or resin that can fill in cracks. This solution is temporary and may not last.
• Professional repair: If the damage is extensive, it’s best to replace the glass entirely. Skylight glass is often tempered or laminated for safety, and professional installation ensures the repair is done safely and properly.

3. Restoring Cloudy Glazing

Cloudy skylights are typically a result of oxidation or UV damage to plastic glazing. To restore clarity, try gently cleaning skylight install the surface with mild soap and water. If the fogging persists, you may need to replace the glazing altogether, especially if it’s made of acrylic or polycarbonate, as these materials tend to degrade over time.

4. Addressing Drafts

If you're feeling drafts around your skylight, inspect the seals for gaps or cracks. Replacing old seals with weatherstripping or caulking will help eliminate drafts. Ensure that the skylight frame is tightly secured to the roof structure. If the skylight is not properly aligned with the roof, realignment may be necessary to prevent air infiltration.

5. Preventing Condensation

To prevent condensation inside the skylight, make sure your home is properly ventilated. Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce humidity levels. In addition, installing double-glazed or low-emissivity (Low-E) windows can help prevent temperature differences that cause condensation.

When to Call a Professional

While some skylight repairs can be tackled by a handy homeowner, others are best left to the experts. If you’re not comfortable with climbing onto your roof or dealing with extensive glass replacement, hiring a professional is the best option. Professionals can ensure that repairs are done safely and correctly, helping to prevent future damage.

Maintaining Your Skylight

To extend the life of your skylight and minimize repair costs, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance:

• Clean your skylight regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
• Inspect the seals and flashing at least once a year, especially after severe weather.
• Check for cracks or damage in the glazing, and fix them promptly to avoid bigger issues later.
• Ensure that surrounding trees or foliage are trimmed to prevent debris or branches from damaging the skylight.

Conclusion

Skylights are a beautiful and functional feature of any home, but like all home features, they require maintenance and occasional repairs. By identifying common issues early and addressing them promptly, you can keep your skylight in top condition for years to come. Whether you choose to repair it yourself or hire a professional, regular care will ensure that your skylight continues to brighten your home without the worry of leaks, drafts, or damage.