Leaking Skylights: A Comprehensive Guide to Repair and Prevention

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A skylight is a beautiful addition to any home, providing natural light and a sense of spaciousness. However, if your skylight starts to leak, it can quickly become a major headache. Water can damage your ceilings, walls, and furnishings, and it can also lead to mold growth.

If you’re dealing with a leaky skylight, don’t panic. In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about how to fix a leaky skylight and prevent future leaks.

Causes of Leaky Skylights

There are a number of things that can cause a skylight to leak. Some of the most common causes include:

• Cracked or damaged glass: The glass in a skylight can be damaged by hail, wind, or other objects. If the glass is cracked or damaged, it can allow water to seep in.
• Broken or missing seals: The seals around the skylight are designed to keep water out. However, over time, these seals can become broken or missing, which can allow water to leak in.
• Improper installation: Skylights must be properly installed in order to prevent leaks. If the skylight is not installed correctly, it can create gaps that allow water to enter.
• Condensation: Condensation can form on the inside of a skylight when the warm air inside your home meets the cold air outside. This condensation can drip down and cause leaks.
• Insufficient flashing: Flashing is a material that is used to seal the edges of a skylight. If the flashing is not installed properly or if it is damaged, it can allow water to leak in.
• Deteriorated sealant: The sealant around the skylight is vital in preventing water penetration. Deterioration often occurs in extreme temperature changes. Areas that experience this frequently should think about replacing their sealants after assessing damage.

Signs of a Leaky Skylight

There are a few signs that may indicate your skylight is leaking. These signs include:

• Water stains on the ceiling or walls
• Mold growth on the ceiling or walls
• Rotted wood around the skylight
• Damaged or missing shingles around the skylight
• Visible cracks or damage to the skylight glass

How to Fix a Leaky Skylight

If you think your skylight is leaking, the first step is to identify the source of the leak. Once you know where the leak is coming from, you can start to repair it.

Here are some tips on how to fix a leaky skylight:

• If the leak is coming from a cracked or damaged glass, you will need to replace the glass.
• If the leak is coming from a broken or missing seal, you will need to replace the seal.
• If the leak is coming from improper installation, you will need to have the skylight reinstalled by a qualified professional.
• If the leak is coming from condensation, you can try to reduce the amount of condensation by increasing ventilation in your attic. You can also try to insulate the skylight to prevent warm air from meeting cold air.
• If the leak is coming from insufficient flashing, you will need to install flashing around the edges of the skylight.
• If the leak is coming from deteriorated sealant, you will need to replace the sealant.

How to Prevent Leaky Skylights

The best way to prevent leaky skylights is to have them installed properly by a qualified professional. You should also have your skylights inspected regularly to ensure that they are in good condition.

Here are some additional tips on how to prevent leaky skylights:

• Keep your gutters clean and free of debris.
• Inspect your skylights for any cracks or damage regularly.
• Seal any gaps around the skylight with caulk.
• Install a skylight cover to protect the skylight from hail and wind.

Conclusion

Leaking skylights can be a major headache, but they can be repaired and prevented. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your skylights in good condition and enjoy the benefits of natural light and a sense of spaciousness in your home.

Image: americanhomecarellc.com

Leaky Skylights How To Fix