How do I know if my skylight needs repair or replacement?

Check the age and manufacturer of the skylight. If the skylight is only 10 years old and the IDENTICAL flashing kit is available, we can repair it. If you cannot obtain the IDENTICAL flashing kit and must reuse the original, I always choose to replace the skylight. If the skylight is the same age as your roof, and the roof is being replaced, I always recommend replacement of the skylight at the same time. Skylights typically last longer than the asphalt shingles but not by much. You don’t want to replace the roof and 10 years later replace the skylight(s). There will be an old-to-new color difference in the shingles around the skylight(s).

Why is my skylight leaking?

There are multiple reasons. Older skylights tend to leak at the seal—where the glass meets the frame of the skylight. Over time, the seal will dry rot. The flashing or the shingles around the skylight can also be the source of leaks.

How much does skylight repair cost?

It depends on the skylight. Most skylights are fixed—meaning they do not open. Some skylights open like a window for fresh air and can be solar powered or powered by a hard-wired motor or manually opened. The cost will also be based on the difficulty—considering how steep your roof is, etc. It is a varied cost, based on the specific job.

Should I replace my skylight when I replace my roof?

We always recommend replacing the skylight(s) when you replace your roof. Skylights typically last longer than asphalt shingles but not by much. We often run into the scenario where 10 years after a customer had their roof replaced, we are replacing their skylights. Now they have an old-to-new color difference in the surrounding shingles. It is also much more cost effective to replace skylights while replacing your roof.

Can skylights be replaced without replacing the entire roof?

Yes, it depends on the current condition of the existing shingles. It is impossible to warranty a skylight against leakage if you are tying a new skylight into old, compromised shingles.

What are the signs that a skylight needs immediate attention?

Leaking at the lens/glass and lifted flashing.

Can I repair my skylight myself, or should I hire a professional?

Just like with anything in life you can always try and tackle it yourself. We recommend hiring a professional. There are safety risks with being on a roof as well as risks to your home if the installation or repair is done incorrectly.

Velux Skylights Installer Howell, MI - Ethical Exteriors Inc.

The VELUX Fixed Flat Roof Skylight is designed for homes with flat or low-pitch roofs to transform and improve virtually any space with daylight. The ISU top cover with CurveTech glass lets in more daylight, easily drains rainwater, and stands out externally as a modern addition to roof surfaces. Skylights include a 0–15° roof pitch, deck mounting, a tempered glass top cover that is virtually scratch-proof, providing a durable layer of protection, an insulated PVC frame, and a CFU fixed base unit with laminated glass for added safety, sound control, and thermal protection.

How do I know if my skylight needs repair or replacement?
Check the age and manufacturer of the skylight. If the skylight is only 10 years old and the IDENTICAL flashing kit is available, we can repair it. If you cannot obtain the IDENTICAL flashing kit and must reuse the original, I always choose to replace the skylight. If the skylight is the same age as your roof, and the roof is being replaced, I always recommend replacement of the skylight at the same time. Skylights typically last longer than the asphalt shingles but not by much. You don’t want to replace the roof and 10 years later replace the skylight(s). There will be an old-to-new color difference in the shingles around the skylight(s).
Why is my skylight leaking?
There are multiple reasons. Older skylights tend to leak at the seal—where the glass meets the frame of the skylight. Over time, the seal will dry rot. The flashing or the shingles around the skylight can also be the source of leaks.
What is the lifespan of a skylight?
30-40 years.
How much does skylight repair cost?
It depends on the skylight. Most skylights are fixed—meaning they do not open. Some skylights open like a window for fresh air and can be solar powered or powered by a hard-wired motor or manually opened. The cost will also be based on the difficulty—considering how steep your roof is, etc. It is a varied cost, based on the specific job.
Should I replace my skylight when I replace my roof?
We always recommend replacing the skylight(s) when you replace your roof. Skylights typically last longer than asphalt shingles but not by much. We often run into the scenario where 10 years after a customer had their roof replaced, we are replacing their skylights. Now they have an old-to-new color difference in the surrounding shingles. It is also much more cost effective to replace skylights while replacing your roof.
Can skylights be replaced without replacing the entire roof?
Yes, it depends on the current condition of the existing shingles. It is impossible to warranty a skylight against leakage if you are tying a new skylight into old, compromised shingles.
What are the signs that a skylight needs immediate attention?
Leaking at the lens/glass and lifted flashing.
Can I repair my skylight myself, or should I hire a professional?
Just like with anything in life you can always try and tackle it yourself. We recommend hiring a professional. There are safety risks with being on a roof as well as risks to your home if the installation or repair is done incorrectly.