Skylights are a fantastic addition to any home. They let in natural light, brighten up dark spaces, and can even help with heating costs in the winter. However, like any part of your home, skylights can develop problems over time. Knowing how to spot common skylight issues can save you a lot of trouble and money in the long run. Here’s a simple guide to help you identify and address common skylight problems.
One of the most common problems with skylights is leaking. If you notice water dripping from your skylight or see water stains on the ceiling around it, you likely have a leak. Leaks can be caused by several factors, including:
To check for leaks, look for signs of water damage around your skylight, especially after a rainstorm. If you find any, it’s time to call a professional to assess and fix the problem.
Condensation is another common issue with skylights. It happens when warm, moist air inside your home meets the cold glass of the skylight, causing water droplets to form. While a little condensation is normal, too much can lead to mold and mildew, which can damage your home and affect your health.
To reduce condensation:
Cracks or chips in the skylight glass can happen due to various reasons, such as hail, falling branches, or even thermal stress (when there’s a significant temperature difference between the inside and outside). Small cracks can grow over time, leading to leaks and more significant damage.
To spot cracks, inspect your skylight regularly, especially after severe weather. If you find any cracks or chips, it’s best to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
If you feel a draft near your skylight, it’s a sign that the seal around it is compromised. Drafts can make your home less energy-efficient, leading to higher heating and cooling costs. They can also make your home less comfortable.
To check for drafts, hold your hand near the edges of the skylight on a windy day. If you feel cold air coming in, it’s time to check the seals and insulation around the skylight.
Discoloration of the skylight glass or the area around it can indicate several problems:
Inspect the area around your skylight regularly for any signs of discoloration. If you notice any, it’s essential to address the underlying issue to prevent further damage.
If your skylight can be opened and closed, make sure it operates smoothly. Difficulty in opening or closing the skylight can be a sign of several problems, including:
Regularly clean and inspect the skylight to ensure it opens and closes properly. If you encounter any issues, it’s best to have a professional take a look.
If your skylight glass looks cloudy or foggy, it’s a sign that the seal between the panes of glass is broken. This can allow moisture to get in between the panes, reducing the clarity of the glass and potentially leading to further damage.
To spot this issue, look for condensation or fogging that doesn’t go away, even on dry days. If you notice this, the glass will likely need to be replaced.
Flashing is the metal or plastic material that helps direct water away from the edges of the skylight. Over time, flashing can become worn or damaged, leading to leaks and water damage.
To check the flashing, look for:
Inspect the flashing around your skylight regularly, especially after severe weather. If you notice any issues, it’s important to have the flashing repaired or replaced.
If you have an attic, check for signs of moisture or water damage in the area around your skylight. This can include:
the attic can indicate a moisture problem, often stemming from a leak in the skylight or its surrounding area.
If your skylight has metal components, such as the frame or flashing, check for signs of rust or corrosion. These can weaken the structural integrity of the skylight and lead to leaks or other issues. Rust can often be spotted by looking for reddish-brown stains or flaking metal.
Inside your home, check the area around the skylight for peeling paint or wallpaper. Moisture from a leaking skylight can cause paint and wallpaper to bubble, peel, or blister. This is a clear sign that water is entering your home and needs to be addressed.
Inspect the roof shingles around the skylight. Damaged or missing shingles can expose the skylight to water infiltration. Look for signs of shingle wear and tear, such as cracks, curling, or missing shingles. Maintaining the shingles around your skylight can help prevent leaks.
The glazing on your skylight is the coating or sealant that helps keep it waterproof. Over time, glazing can deteriorate, leading to leaks or drafts. Check for any cracks or gaps in the glazing, and if you find any, consider having the skylight reglazed by a professional.
Small gaps or cracks around your skylight can provide an entry point for pests, such as insects or rodents. If you notice an increase in pests around your skylight, it could be a sign that it’s not properly sealed. Check for any openings and seal them to keep pests out.
Homes settle and shift over time, which can affect the fit and alignment of your skylight. If you notice that your skylight seems out of place or misaligned, it could be due to structural movement. This can cause gaps and leaks, so it’s important to have it inspected by a professional.
If your skylight starts to make unusual noises, such as creaking or popping, it could be a sign of structural issues or thermal expansion and contraction. These noises can indicate that the skylight is under stress and may need attention.
Furnishings, carpets, and other items inside your home can fade or discolor due to prolonged exposure to sunlight through a skylight. While this isn’t a structural issue, it’s something to be aware of. Using skylight shades or UV-blocking films can help protect your interior.
If your skylight doesn’t seem to be performing as well as it used to—such as letting in less light or not ventilating properly—it might be time for an inspection. Over time, wear and tear can reduce the effectiveness of your skylight.
Staining or discoloration on the skylight glass itself can be a sign of hard water deposits, pollution, or other environmental factors. Regular cleaning can help maintain the clarity of your skylight, but persistent stains might require professional attention.
If you notice a sudden increase in your heating or cooling costs, it could be due to poor insulation around your skylight. A poorly insulated skylight can let heat escape in the winter and let heat in during the summer, making your HVAC system work harder.
Regularly checking your skylight for these common problems can help you catch issues early and prevent costly repairs down the road. Skylights are a wonderful feature in any home, but they require maintenance and care to function properly.
If you’ve noticed any of these signs or are unsure about the condition of your skylight, contact Tovba Construction today. Our experienced team can assess your skylight and recommend the best course of action. Call us now or visit our website to schedule a consultation and ensure your home stays bright, dry, and energy-efficient.
General Contractor: TOVBA CONSTRUCTION, INC
Registered : California, US
License # : 1088629
Location : North Highlands
(916) 940 7711
tovbaconstruction@gmail.com
