Water near a skylight can start at the unit or the roofing around it. The repair decision depends on finding which connection has failed.
Free roof inspectionA closer look at the roof
Repair or replacementWork that fits the condition
Homes and commercial roofsThe right scope for the building
Skylight Leak Assessment in Tuttle
A wet ceiling near a skylight does not identify the cause by itself. The unit, its seals, surrounding shingles and the flashing that connects them need to be considered together. Interior moisture can also have a different source from rain entering through the roof.
We assess the roof connection before choosing a flashing repair or a replacement unit. The skylight type, roof pitch and compatible flashing system determine how that connection should be built.
Flashing Repair or Skylight Replacement
Roof connection repair
If the unit is suitable to remain, damaged or incorrectly integrated flashing and surrounding roofing can be addressed. The repair must connect to the underlayment and covering in the way the selected system requires.
Unit replacement
A deteriorated unit or failed glazing/seal assembly can call for replacement. The new unit must suit the opening, curb or deck mounting and roof pitch. A surface patch around the frame does not renew the unit itself.
Connected interior work
Ceiling damage, the light shaft or electrical controls can involve work beyond the roof opening. That scope is kept separate so the roofing repair is not mistaken for a complete interior restoration.
Skylight Work During a Reroof
A roof replacement exposes the surrounding shingles and underlayment. That makes it a useful time to consider the skylight condition and its compatible flashing, rather than reusing a weak connection under new roofing.
The decision is still specific to the unit. A serviceable skylight and an aged unit do not have the same replacement need. The roof scope explains what happens to the unit, flashing and surrounding covering.
Size, mounting type, pitch and the surrounding roof establish the available repair or replacement approach.
2
Resolve the failed connection
Unit condition, flashing and damaged underlying material determine what must be removed.
3
Include connected work
Access, roof covering, controls and interior repairs affect the cost beyond the skylight itself.
Skylight FAQs
Can a skylight leak be repaired without replacing the unit?
Yes, when the unit is suitable to remain and the failure is in a repairable roof or flashing connection. A failed or deteriorated unit changes the options.
Is caulk around the outside a lasting repair?
A specified sealant can be part of a detail, but an outside bead does not replace properly integrated flashing or repair a failed unit. The source of the water needs to be established.
Should a skylight be considered before a new roof goes on?
Yes. Its condition and compatible flashing should be considered while the surrounding roof is open, so the new covering ties into a sound detail.
