How to fix a leaking skylight?
Skylights are absolutely stunning additions to any home, but because of the intricacies of their installation, you have to deal with a leak at one point or another. Investing in professional skylight installation is the best way to prevent this, but there are many other environmental impacts that can play a role. In most cases, the seals and flashing on a skylight can deteriorate over time, and this is entirely normal. Once there is a vulnerability in the structure, water will penetrate through the roof and result in a leak. Modern skylight installers can protect your property against leaks, but even the best skylight will fail against leaks if it isn’t installed properly. This is only one of many ways to avoid a skylight leak.
Ways to avoid a skylight leak
- Use a professional that can carry out seal-tight installation
- Maintain the state of your entire roof’s profile and surrounding materials
- Only rely on high-quality materials and professionals
- Use a technician that offers tailored or custom roof flashing
- Choose a product with a multi-year warranty
- Avoid DIY attempts
Why is my skylight leaking?
Bad installation
A botched installation job is usually the culprit of skylight leaks. If an unqualified or unlicensed professional puts up the skylight incorrectly, it will obviously lead to problems. There are a number of issues to consider with improper installation, and they include:
- Installation at the wrong pitch, thereby preventing proper drainage of rainwater or condensation
- Inappropriate flashing or insulating which leave sections open to leakage
- A damaged or deterioration surrounding the roof
The build-up of condensation
Build up is the second most likely cause of leakages in skylights. It doesn’t matter the type of skylight, illume skylight installation, or otherwise, they will sometimes leak due to a collection of moisture on the inside caused by condensation. Single glazed skylights or those placed over areas with a lot of humidity can be the root cause of this issue. This may require that you hose down your skylight and the surrounding areas because this can help determine if the leakage is caused by condensation.
A lack of regular (and infrequent) maintenance
Skylights are installations that need maintenance, but this is required very infrequently. However, the importance of maintenance is that it can spot developing leaks and deal with the issue straight away. A routine maintenance appointment might spot a slipped tile that needs a cleaning away from the flashing. Metal roofs often have debris built up between the roof and the flashing, which can contribute to a leak. This will require scooping away to ensure the security of your installation.
Old, rusting framing
The frame that your skylight is built into, the roof, needs to be structurally sound to protect it against leaks. If the structure is rusty and old, it may cause leakage. Properties with frames made out of wood are also vulnerable to rotting, and this opens up gaps for water to drip through your skylight. Old metal roofs are equally likely to corrosion due to longstanding water damage or a collection of debris stuck around them that leads to rusting. You should ensure that your roof is checked for integrity issues when looking for leakage as it is a likely problem area.
Damage to skylight glazing
Some skylight installations in Western Sydney include the use of glazed panels, but they can also let in water if the weatherproofing around it is broken. Sometimes, but very rarely, there are cases where skylight glass planes develop tiny cracks invisible to the eye, letting water in. Consider this if you’ve recently experienced harsh weather that has exposed your skylight to hail and debris.
Why can a leaking skylight be dangerous?
Like with many other parts of the home, the skylight is connected to vital structures of your home that can be dangerous if they are comprised. Leaking skylights can send water right into your roof cavity, and moisture in your roof space can lead to structural damage or rot. You will not see the effects straight away, but if you leave them unchecked, a leaky skylight could contribute to your roof collapsing. This doesn’t mean that skylights aren’t strong and effective installations for your home. It just means that they need to be looked after, like other parts of your home, to continue bringing in natural, warm daylight into the house.
How much does it cost to install a skylight?
Skylight installation costs in the Western Sydney area can fall in a wide price range from $300-$3,000 depending on the type of skylight, the complexity of the job, and the style of roof. There’s also the cost of materials to consider, and the average cost ranges from $250 to $1,600. If we broadly estimate an all-inclusive price, you can expect to pay anything from $550 to $5,000+ depending on the type of skylight and installation required. A skylight, also known as a roof light, is the addition of a pane or window in the roofing to welcome in some natural daylight and ventilation. Skylights are an excellent way to do this and are generally helpful in areas where natural lighting is insufficient, such as a bathroom, hallway, or room without windows. Based on every general price estimate we’ve given you thus far, Western Sydney skylight installations should seem a worthwhile investment to brighten up your house.
Professional skylight repairs in Western Sydney
We’re not only the best skylight installers in Sydney, but we also offer prompt and efficient repairs. Your skylight should be an investment made to last, and there’s no reason not to maintain that investment. Choose us for guaranteed professional repairs and installation to ensure the highest quality service. Western Sydney Skylights only has experienced, skilled, and qualified installers in our ranks, and we insist on using high-quality materials and ensuring a perfect installation. Hire a professional to install your skylight, and you’ll save money on the possibility of future repairs. Professional skylight installation is crucial to the waterproofing and security of a skylight, and we can show you how. Call us on 0421 063 943, and we can tailor-make your installation.