Skylights can be a wonderful addition to any home, but they are not without problems. That’s why Madison Roofing would like to discuss some of the most common issues with skylights and how to fix them. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent these problems from occurring in the first place.
What is a Skylight?
A skylight is a window built into the roof of your home. They can be made from glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate and come in various shapes and sizes. Skylights allow natural light to enter your home, reducing energy costs and improving the overall aesthetic value.
Skylights can be installed either during the construction of your home or after it is built. If you are installing a skylight in an existing roof, you must first determine where to place it, cut out the opening, and attach the skylight frame. After that, you must caulk around the edges and install flashing to prevent water leakage.
Common Skylight Issues
Several different issues may occur with skylights if they are not properly maintained:
- Leaking: Leaks are one of the most common problems associated with skylights. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate around the seals on your skylight, which can cause water to seep through. If you notice any water leaks in your home near a skylight, it’s important to take action immediately.
- Condensation: Condensation is another common problem associated with skylights. When warm air comes into contact with the cold glass of a skylight, moisture can form and drip down onto your furniture or flooring below.
- Discoloration: Over time, your skylight may begin to discolor due to UV exposure. This will reduce the natural light coming through the window and make your home look duller than usual.
How to Fix Skylight Issues
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent and fix these issues:
- Check for Leaks Regularly: To prevent leaks, it’s important to inspect your skylight regularly for signs of damage or wear. You should also ensure that the seals around the window are in good condition and not cracked or broken.
- Apply a Protective Coating: Applying a protective coating such as silicone can help protect your skylight from UV exposure and condensation.
- Clean Your Skylight Regularly: Dirt and debris can accumulate on your skylight over time, which can lead to leaks and discoloration. To prevent this from happening, make sure you clean your skylight regularly using warm water and soap.
- Replace Damaged Seals: If you notice any cracks or breaks in the sealant around your skylight, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible. This will help prevent water from entering your home and causing further damage.
- Insulate Around the Skylight: Adding insulation around your skylight can help reduce condensation by keeping the air temperature more consistent.
These are just a few of the tips you can use to keep your skylight in top condition. Remember, if you ever encounter any major issues with your skylight, it’s always best to contact a roofing company in Boise for advice. At Madison Roofing, we will be able to provide you with more specific guidance on how to fix the issue correctly.
How Does a Skylight Affect Your Roof?
If your skylight is not properly installed or maintained, it can cause major damage to your roof. Water leakage and condensation can lead to mold growth and wood rot in your attic space when left unchecked. For this reason, it’s important to make sure that your skylight is sealed correctly and regularly inspected for any signs of damage. This will help ensure that it remains in good condition and doesn’t cause unnecessary damage to your home.
Schedule Roof Maintenance with Madison Roofing
If you want to make sure your roof is in tip-top shape and free from any skylight issues, it’s essential to contact a roofing company in Boise. At Madison Roofing, we offer a wide variety of roofing services, including inspections, repairs, replacements, and more! To learn more about how we can help keep your roof looking great for years to come, contact us today by filling out our online form or calling (208) 344-5379. We look forward to hearing from you.
