Skylights are a great feature for any home. They bring natural light into darker spaces, improve the look of a room, and can even help reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. However, like any roofing component, skylights do not last forever. Over time they can become a common source of roof leaks and water damage if they are not properly maintained or replaced. At ABJ Roofing, we often receive service calls where homeowners believe their roof is leaking, only to discover that the real problem is an aging or improperly installed skylight. Understanding when a skylight needs to be replaced can help prevent costly repairs and protect your home.
How Skylights Can Cause Roof Leaks
A skylight is essentially an opening built directly into your roofing system. Because of this, it requires proper flashing, sealing, and installation to keep water out. When any part of that system fails, water can begin to enter the home.
One of the most common causes of skylight leaks is deteriorated flashing. Flashing is the metal material installed around the skylight that directs water away from the opening. Over time flashing can rust, separate, or become improperly sealed. Once this happens, rainwater can begin to seep underneath the surrounding shingles and into the roof deck.
Another common issue is seal failure. Skylights rely on weatherproof seals to prevent water intrusion. As the skylight ages, these seals can crack, shrink, or break down from constant exposure to sunlight, temperature changes, and moisture. When the seal fails, water can enter around the edges of the skylight.
Improper installation is also a major cause of leaks. If the skylight was not installed with proper flashing kits, underlayment, or ice and water protection, the chances of leaks increase significantly. This is especially common with older skylights that were installed many years ago before modern roofing systems and installation standards were widely used.
When It’s Best to Replace a Skylight
In many cases, attempting to repair an old skylight is only a temporary solution. If the skylight is more than 15 to 20 years old, replacement is often the most reliable option. Modern skylights are designed with better sealing systems, improved flashing kits, and more energy efficient glass.
Replacing a skylight is also strongly recommended when installing a new roof. During a roof replacement, the surrounding shingles and flashing are already being removed. Installing a new skylight at the same time ensures the entire system is sealed properly and prevents the need to disturb the new roof later.
At ABJ Roofing, we often advise homeowners that replacing an aging skylight during a roof replacement can save money and prevent future leak issues.
Protect Your Roof and Home
A leaking skylight can cause more damage than most homeowners realize. Water entering around a skylight can lead to damaged insulation, mold growth, rotted roof decking, and interior ceiling damage if it is not addressed quickly.
If you notice signs of a skylight leak or suspect that your skylight may be failing, it is important to have it inspected by a professional roofing contractor. Catching the issue early can prevent more serious structural problems and costly repairs.
At ABJ Roofing, we help homeowners throughout the area identify skylight issues, repair flashing problems, and replace aging skylights when necessary. Our team ensures that skylights are properly integrated into the roofing system so your home stays protected from the elements.
If you are experiencing a skylight leak or planning a roof replacement, contact ABJ Roofing to schedule an inspection and make sure your skylight is working the way it should.
