Skylights can transform any space by providing abundant natural light and giving the benefits of added ventilation or heat gain. However, like any other feature of your home, skylights require regular inspections and maintenance to keep them functioning optimally and looking their best! This article will discuss the various aspects of skylight maintenance, repairs, and cleaning, as well as answer some frequently asked questions.
What Goes Into Routine Skylight Maintenance?
Routine skylight maintenance involves a combination of professional inspections, repairs, and cleaning in order to keep your skylight in good condition. Let’s dive deeper into each of these aspects; read on to learn more.
Professional Inspections and Repairs
Regular professional inspections can help identify potential issues with your skylight before they become more severe and costly to fix. It’s essential to have a qualified contractor examine your skylight and features at least once a year (or more frequently if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions).
Performing Repairs as Needed for Leaks and Other Issues
Leaky skylights can happen for various reasons, including improper installation, damaged flashing (metal or rubber pieces that create a transition between the roof and skylight), cracked glass or damaged seal in the frame. A professional contractor can evaluate and make recommendations regarding the cause of a leak and the necessary repairs. It may even be more cost-effective to replace the entire skylight unit, depending on how badly it has been damaged and its frame’s condition. Contact a professional if you suspect your skylight has taken considerable damage!
Routine Maintenance to Ensure Performance
Besides addressing leaks and other issues, a little maintenance each year can help ensure your skylight continues performing well. This may involve checking the flashing and sealants, lubricating the moving parts, roofing material around the skylight and inspecting the skylight’s overall condition. If you notice any cracks or discoloration in the glass, this is a good indication that it’s time to replace it. You’ll also want to check for debris build up at the top of the skylight, just like you would with a gutter, you’ll want to clear this away. Excessive debris can cause water to back up under the roofing material and enter the home.
Skylight Cleaning
Occasional cleaning is ideal to keep your skylight looking its best and operating at peak efficiency. Cleaning can take place on the outside and inside of a home. We recommend hiring a professional roofer to clean the outside of the glass. But for the inside, depending on the skylight, you should be able to buy a window cleaner with an extension in order to reach high enough.
Exterior Cleaning Should Be Handled by Roofing Pros
Cleaning the exterior of your skylight can be dangerous because it is challenging to stay balanced on a slippery roof while performing cleaning and maintenance. You should hire a roofing contractor rather than attempting to clean your skylight yourself! A professional will use appropriate equipment to avoid injury and utilize tried-and-true cleaning procedures so that they don’t damage the skylight while working.
Interior Cleaning Can Be Done by Homeowners
You can clean the inside of a skylight using either a long-handled squeegee or a soft cloth with clean water for hard-to-reach spots.
Cleaning Skylights For Best Results
Keep in mind that if you are using a squeegee and applicator on the inside, it can cause water to run off into your drywall or the wood frame of the skylight. So a soft rang might be the beset option. Most common household window cleaners should work just fine. Avoid using harsh chemicals, or abrasive tools on glass, as they can scratch and cause other damage.
Skylight Maintenance FAQs
As skylight professionals in the state of Maryland, we get plenty of questions from homeowners looking to ensure their skylight is functioning properly for years to come. Below are some of the most common questions we get asked!
What is a Skylight's Average Lifespan?
A well-maintained skylight can last between 15 to 30 years, depending on the materials used and the quality of installation. Regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your skylight and keep it functioning optimally. If you have a skylight over 15 years old, you may want to consider getting it professionally inspected.
How Often Should Skylights Be Cleaned?
The glass can be cleaned as often as you prefer, although we would recommend considering that for every cleaning, this means someone walking on the roof. While a skylight should be cleared of debris as often as you clear your gutters, extra foot traffic on the roof needs to be done with caution so as not to damage the roof.
How Do Leaks Form with Skylights?
Skylight leaks can occur for several reasons, including damaged or deteriorated flashing, cracked or broken glass, and improper installation. Other factors that may contribute to leaks include issues in near by parts of the roof. A leak from three feet away could still reach your skylight and only present inside the home at the skylight opening. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address potential issues before they lead to leaks and water damage.
RoofPRO is a Trusted Contractor for Skylight Repairs and Maintenance
RoofPRO is the go-to choice for homeowners seeking a reliable, experienced contractor for skylight repairs and maintenance. Our technicians are trained to determine the cause of your skylight leak and repair it quickly! Contact us today for more information and a free estimate.
Top-Rated Solutions in Maryland Since 2004
Since 2004, RoofPRO has provided Maryland residents with the best possible skylight solutions. Our skilled and certified professionals deliver exceptional service so that your skylight remains in optimal condition for years!
Our well-trained team is familiar with skylights and their everyday problems. We offer a range of skylight services, including routine inspections, repairs, and cleaning. As skylight experts, we can also provide complete installation and replacement services.
Contact Us Today for a Free Skylight Estimate
We invite you to contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate if you need skylight repairs, maintenance, or installation services. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can answer any questions and help you determine the best action for your needs.
In conclusion, skylight maintenance, repairs, and cleaning are essential to keeping your skylight in top shape and ensuring it continues to bring natural light and beauty into your home. By following a routine maintenance schedule, addressing issues promptly, and hiring trusted professionals like RoofPRO for necessary repairs and cleaning, you can prolong the lifespan of your skylight and enjoy its benefits for many years to come!
