Skylights can be an aesthetic and functional addition to any roof when more lighting is desired.

Unfortunately, they frequently leak once they start aging, creating problems that require roofing repair.

Leaking skylights may also need to be replaced if they are damaged to prevent ongoing leaking that could result in a need for a roof replacement.

How do you know whether to repair or replace a skylight?

Consider these factors, then call a skilled roofer service that can get the job done successfully!

Locate The Leak

Because skylights can be challenging to deal with, the first thing any roofing repair company will do is find out if the leak is coming from the skylight or somewhere around it, which is common.

The question of whether to have a roofer service replace, or repair the skylight will depend largely on the origination of the leak.

Water around the glass edges on the outside suggests that the glass is no longer sealed, or it might be cracked.

Ceiling stains on the inside suggest that the culprit could be failed flashing or sealant around the skylight.

It could also be a leak originating elsewhere on the roof causing water to run under the shingles, exiting under the skylight seals.

Assess Skylight Condition

If the leak is indeed coming from the skylight, it is then time to assess the condition of the fixture to decide whether it is worth fixing, or if a roofing repair contractor should replace it.

Cracked glass usually requires total replacement, as does deteriorating rubber seals around the glass or elsewhere on the skylight.

On the other hand, missing or damaged flashing or sealant around the outside that has dry-rotted can frequently be repaired.

Whenever possible, repairing a skylight without disturbing it is preferred.

Assess Surrounding Roof Condition

The second factor in determining whether a skylight should be repaired, replaced, or even eliminated altogether by a roofer service is the condition surrounding the skylight.

Leaks originating elsewhere indicate other damage that must be located and assessed to see if other repairs or a roofing replacement is actually what is necessary.

Hidden leaks, loose or damaged shingles, and other problems could be presenting as water leaking from around a skylight.

Failure to address those issues and only re-sealing a skylight will not stop the leaking or the ongoing deterioration, eventually leading to more severe damage.

Call A Roofing Repair Professional for Skylight Problems

Skylights are a great addition for illuminating the darker spaces in any home or building with natural light.

They can be problematic as they age and require roofing repairs if they start leaking.

Contact a professional roofer service at the first sign that your skylight is leaking or you notice other damage, as repair or replacement may be necessary.

Doing so as quickly as possible could make the difference between repairing a localized problem or ending up with widespread damage that requires a roof replacement instead.