Skylight Repair & Installation: Add Light Without Leaks

Let the sun in—but not the rain. Skylights transform dark spaces, brighten moods, and can even lower your bills. But without proper installation, a skylight is just a hole waiting for trouble.

At Rane Roofing & Gutters, we know the headaches a leaky or foggy skylight can cause. From emergency roofing calls after heavy storms to routine skylight checks, we’ve seen it all. Here’s what every homeowner and business should know before cutting a window to the sky.

Benefits of Skylights ☀️

Why add a skylight? Here’s what you gain:

• Natural Light: Sunlight does more than brighten a room—it boosts productivity, reduces eye strain, and can even help regulate your sleep cycle.
• Ventilation: Venting skylights open to let out hot air, making stuffy rooms feel fresh.
• Energy Savings: Strategic placement can reduce the need for electric lighting and, in some cases, lower cooling costs.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Skylights add drama. Think cozy breakfast nooks, sun-splashed hallways, or a commercial lobby that feels welcoming.
• Property Value: Modern, energy-rated skylights are a selling point for both homes and commercial spaces.

But not all skylights are created equal. The right choice depends on your roof type, climate, and style.

Types of Skylights

• Fixed: These don’t open. Great for bringing in light without drafts.
• Venting: Can be opened manually or remotely—ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or anywhere moisture builds up.
• Tubular: Small, reflective tubes that channel sunlight into tight or windowless spaces.
• Custom Shapes: Domes, pyramids, or multi-paneled glass for architectural statements.

Want to avoid leaks? Placement and installation matter as much as the product.

Common Skylight Issues

Skylights are like windows on the roof. That means they see more punishment than any wall window ever will. Here’s what can go wrong:

• Leaks: Water sneaking in around the frame or flashing. Often shows up as stains, peeling paint, or drips after rain.
• Fogging: Condensation or cloudiness between glass panes. Usually a sign the seal is broken.
• Drafts: Cold air or hot gusts making your HVAC work overtime. Often caused by poor installation or old gaskets.
• Cracked Glass: Hail, fallen branches, or aging materials can damage the skylight, risking leaks or injury.

Some problems show up fast—others sneak up over years. The most common culprit? Improper flashing and sealant, especially after a hasty emergency roofing job.

How Skylight Leaks Happen

Picture a boat with a loose hatch. The weakest spot always gets soaked first. On roofs, that’s the skylight’s flashing—the metal or waterproof membrane that wraps the opening. If it’s bent, rusted, or missing, water will find its way in. Chimney flashing near you gets the same treatment for a reason: it’s critical.

Repair vs Replacement

So your skylight’s leaking, foggy, or drafty. Should you repair or replace?

When Repair Makes Sense

• Minor Leaks: Fresh sealant and new flashing can often fix the problem.
• Loose Hardware: Tightening screws or replacing gaskets can stop drafts.
• Surface Damage: Small chips or scratches on acrylic domes are usually repairable.

When Replacement Is Better

• Fogged Double-Pane Glass: Seals can’t be unbroken; the glass needs swapping.
• Cracked or Warped Frames: Age or weather can bend metal or plastic frames beyond saving.
• Recurring Leaks: If you’ve fixed it twice and it still drips, it’s time for a new skylight.

Professional roofers like Rane Roofing & Gutters inspect the whole assembly—flashing, seals, frame, and even the roof deck underneath—to recommend the best course.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades 🌱

A skylight can save energy—or waste it. Here’s how to keep costs down and comfort up:

• Low-E Glass: Special coatings reflect infrared light, keeping heat out in summer and in during winter.
• Double or Triple Panes: More layers mean better insulation, less condensation, and reduced noise.
• Solar-Powered Shades: Built-in blinds that adjust with the sun—no cords, no fuss.
• UV Filters: Protect furniture and flooring from fading.

Check for Energy Star® ratings. These products meet strict guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy and EPA.

Placement Matters

A south-facing skylight (in the northern hemisphere) soaks up sun all day, while a north-facing one gives gentle, constant light. Too much sun? Consider tinted glass or shades.

Choosing the Right Skylight

• Roof Type: Flat roofs need curb-mounted skylights. Steep slopes can use deck-mounted models.
• Size & Shape: Bigger isn’t always better. Too large, and you risk overheating; too small, and you lose the benefit.
• Glazing Options: Tempered glass for impact, laminated glass for security, acrylic for budget jobs.
• Local Climate: Hail-prone? Opt for impact-resistant materials.
• Building Codes: Some areas require tempered or laminated glass, certain installation heights, or egress options for commercial spaces. Check the International Residential Code (IRC) or consult your local building department.

Preventing Leaks: Pro Tips

• Quality Flashing: We install skylights with custom-fitted, leak-proof flashing—never shortcuts.
• Regular Inspections: Check for cracked caulk, lifted shingles, or debris around the skylight after storms.
• Clean Gutters & Downspouts: Overflowing gutters can back up under flashing. (That’s why we handle gutter installation and repair, too.)
• Professional Installation: DIY mistakes are the #1 reason for leaks. Leave tricky roof cuts and flashing to those with experience.

Cost Ranges & What Affects Price 💡

• Repair: Minor fixes (sealant, flashing) typically range from $300–$800, depending on access and roof pitch.
• Replacement: New skylights, including installation, can run $1,000–$3,500 or more for premium models or large commercial jobs.
• Upgrades: Energy-efficient glass or automated shades add $300–$1,000.

Complex roofs, steep pitches, or emergency roofing calls after a storm may add to the price. Permits are sometimes required—always factor in local code requirements.

Local Code & Safety Notes

• Skylights must meet load, impact, and energy codes. The International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) set standards for glazing, flashing, and egress.
• Commercial roofs may have additional requirements for fire rating or walkability.
• Always use harnesses and roof anchors when working at height. Even seasoned pros follow OSHA fall protection rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I repair a leaking skylight myself?

Small leaks? Maybe. But most repairs involve roof work, which is risky and often voids the manufacturer’s warranty if done incorrectly. For anything beyond basic caulking, call a pro.

How long do skylights last?

Most modern skylights last 10–20 years. Quality installation, regular inspections, and proper flashing can stretch that lifespan even further.

Are skylights safe for flat roofs?

Yes—but only with proper curb-mounted designs and high-quality flashing. Flat roofs are more prone to pooling water, so details matter.

What if my skylight leaks during a storm?

That’s an emergency roofing situation. Cover with a tarp if you can do so safely, then call for immediate help. The faster you address water intrusion, the less damage you’ll face.

Local & Seasonal Considerations 🍂

Spring and fall are the best times for skylight installation—before extreme heat, cold, or storm season sets in. In snowy regions, consider snow load ratings. In wildfire-prone areas, opt for fire-rated glazing.

For both homes and businesses, routine inspections—especially after hail, heavy wind, or ice storms—catch problems before they drain your wallet.

Rane Roofing & Gutters: Our Skylight Standards

We install every skylight with precision, using only high-quality, leak-proof flashing and modern sealants. Our crews follow all local building codes and the latest safety standards. Residential or commercial, flat or steep—every job gets the same attention to detail.

Want to add light without leaks? Call the pros who get it right the first time.

Call Rane Roofing & Gutters now — or reach us anytime at  888-984-8044 .