Skylights can be a beautiful addition to any home, allowing natural light to flood in and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. However, like any other element of your home, skylights can develop problems over time. All Star Roofing is here to help you identify common skylight issues and offer solutions to keep your home safe and bright.
Leaky Skylights
One of the most frequent problems homeowners encounter with skylights is leaking. Several factors, including poor installation, damaged seals, or debris buildup around the skylight can cause this. Leaks can lead to water damage, mold growth, and even structural issues if left unaddressed.
How to Fix It: Start by checking the seals around the skylight. If they appear cracked or worn, they may need to be replaced. It would help if you also cleared any debris that might be preventing water from draining away properly. If the problem persists, it’s best to call a professional roofing company, like All Star Roofing, to inspect and repair the skylight.
Condensation Buildup
Condensation occurs when there’s a significant temperature difference between the inside and outside of your home, causing moisture to form on the skylight glass. While condensation itself isn’t a major problem, excessive moisture can lead to mold growth and water damage over time.
How to Fix It: Improving ventilation in your home can help reduce condensation. Installing a dehumidifier or running bathroom and kitchen fans can prevent excess moisture from accumulating. If condensation becomes a recurring issue, consider upgrading your skylight to a more energy-efficient model.
Cracked or Broken Skylight Glass
Cracks in the glass can occur due to impact from debris or extreme temperature fluctuations. These cracks can compromise the integrity of the skylight, leading to potential leaks, drafts, or even shattered glass.
How to Fix It: For small cracks, a temporary solution might involve using weatherproof tape to seal the damage until a professional can assess it. However, it’s important to replace the skylight glass as soon as possible to prevent further damage and maintain safety. All-Star Roofing can expertly handle skylight glass replacement to restore the beauty and function of your skylight.
Skylight Flashing Issues
Flashing is the material that seals the edges of your skylight to prevent water from seeping in. Over time, flashing can become loose, corroded, or improperly installed, leading to leaks and water damage.
How to Fix It: Inspect the flashing for signs of wear or corrosion. If it’s damaged, it will need to be replaced or resealed. This is a job best left to professionals, as improper flashing installation can worsen the problem.
Drafts Around the Skylight
If you notice cold drafts around your skylight, it could mean that the seals have deteriorated, or the skylight was not properly insulated. This can lead to higher energy bills and an uncomfortable indoor environment.
How to Fix It: Resealing the skylight or adding insulation around it can help eliminate drafts. In some cases, upgrading to an energy-efficient skylight with better insulation properties might be the best solution.
Discoloration or Fogging
Skylight glass may become foggy or discolored due to moisture trapped between glass layers or damage to the protective coating. This can reduce the clarity and aesthetic appeal of the skylight.
How to Fix It: For minor fogging, cleaning the skylight with specialized glass cleaners can help. However, if the discoloration is due to moisture between glass panes, the skylight may need to be replaced.
Skylights are a wonderful feature that can enhance the beauty and energy efficiency of your home, but they require regular roof maintenance and occasional repairs. Addressing issues like leaks, drafts, and condensation early on can prevent costly damage and ensure your skylight continues to brighten your home for years to come.
If you’re experiencing skylight problems, contact the best roofing company in Vancouver today. Our team of experts is ready to assess and repair your roof to keep your home safe, dry, and full of natural light!
