How to Prevent Skylight Leaks

Skylights can be a great home feature. They add tons of natural light to your house and provide a unique design element. Unfortunately, skylights can also be prone to leaking. If your skylights are leaking, they may suddenly seem impractical and more of a burden than a benefit. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to reduce your chance of a skylight leak this winter.

1. Inspect the skylight’s installation. Make sure your skylight is properly installed. The skylight should sit above your roofing instead of flush against it. This prevents water from pooling around the skylight and seeping into your attic. It’s also a good idea to make sure the flashing around the skylight is fully intact and free of cracks or missing pieces.

2. Keep the skylight clean. If you notice debris on your skylight, clean it off as soon as possible. Debris can make its way down your roof and clog your gutters. Clogged gutters can lead to the formation of ice dams which can in turn cause flooding on your roof and around your skylight.

3. Install ventilation. One common cause of skylight water damage is condensation. Poor attic ventilation combined with household humidity can create condensation on your skylights. To combat this, install proper ventilation in your attic or add a dehumidifier in your home. This will help to dry out the area before the condensation begins.

Always pay attention to your skylights when the weather conditions are less than ideal. If you have noticed any problems relating to your skylight, give us a call. We will examine the area, fix any problems, and address any water damage.