Skylight Installation: Adding Light Without Risking Leaks

Letting sunlight pour into a room can completely transform your space. But in roofing, every new window is a new doorway for water—unless you play it smart. At Ferns Roofing, we’ve seen water sneak in through the tiniest cracks, especially where a skylight meets your roof. We’re here to help you add light—without adding leaks.

Homeowners and property managers want that natural glow. But they also want peace of mind, especially after a storm. Our certified team handles skylight installs every season, from cozy bungalows to high-traffic offices. Fast, careful, and always with an eye on local code and your long-term comfort.

Benefits of Skylights 🌞

Why cut a hole in your roof? The rewards are real:

• Natural light floods in. Rooms feel bigger, brighter, and more welcoming.
• Lower energy bills. Let the sun warm your home in winter. Cut back on electric lights during the day.
• Boost property value. Skylights are an upgrade buyers notice.
• Fresh air option. Some models open, improving ventilation and air quality.
• Well-being. Studies from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory show increased daylight can lift moods and even productivity.

But every bright spot needs planning. Without careful installation, a skylight can become the weakest link in your roofing armor.

Choosing the Right Location

Picking the best spot is like finding the sweet spot in a garden—where the sun hits but nothing wilts.

• Roof slope matters. Too flat? Water pools. Too steep? The view shrinks. Aim for a slope that matches your roof type (consult International Residential Code guidelines).
• Avoiding rafters and wires. X-ray vision helps, but mapping roof framing is key. This prevents costly surprises.
• South-facing = more light. But also more heat. Think about your climate and needs.
• No-go zones. Avoid valleys, hips, and places where water already hesitates. That’s where leaks love to start.

A pro will map out these details before cutting a single shingle.

Installation Process

Here’s how the Ferns Roofing team keeps things watertight from the first cut to the final seal:

1. Detailed Assessment

We inspect the roof—inside and out. We check decking, insulation, and attic space. This helps us spot any hidden moisture or structural issues that could haunt you later.

2. Mark & Prep

The opening is measured and marked carefully. We remove shingles or tiles with precision, keeping your existing roof system intact as much as possible.

3. Cutting the Opening

Using the right saws, we follow guidelines to avoid splintering. The cut edges are inspected and stabilized.

4. Waterproofing & Flashing

This is where good installations stand apart. We use:

• Custom-fit flashing kits (required by most skylight manufacturers).
• Ice and water shield membrane wrapped around the opening.
• Layered technique: Step flashing, then continuous flashing, integrating with your shingles or roofing panels.

Each layer acts like an umbrella inside an umbrella, shedding water in stages—not letting it sneak underneath.

5. Setting the Skylight

We set the frame, check for square, and secure it with fasteners designed for your roof type (metal, shingle, tile, or flat).

6. Sealing & Insulating

Seams are sealed with high-grade roofing sealant. We insulate around the skylight to prevent condensation and energy loss.

7. Final Shingle/Tile Replacement

Shingles or tiles are carefully replaced around the new unit, maintaining your roof’s look and function.

8. Inspection

We test for leaks with a controlled water spray. Your skylight is ready to face the next storm.

Leak Prevention Strategies 💧

No one wants a skylight that drips like a leaky faucet. Here’s how we keep water at bay:

• Always use manufacturer-approved flashing kits.
• Double-check sealants. Only UV- and weather-resistant products stand up over time.
• Check for debris. Leaves and dirt can dam water; we design for easy drainage.
• Inspect after storms. Especially after “Storm Damage Restoration near you,” a quick check can prevent long-term headaches.
• Annual maintenance. Just like gutters, skylights need a look-over at least once a year.

Your roof is a shield. The details make all the difference.

Certified Installers & Code Compliance

A skylight is only as good as the hands that install it. At Ferns Roofing:

• All installers are certified by major skylight manufacturers and trained in current OSHA safety practices.
• We follow International Building Code and local regulations for every project, residential or commercial.
• Permits are always pulled where required, keeping your property safe and insurable.

Warranty & Leak-Free Confidence

We stand behind our process, using only trusted materials and time-tested techniques. You get documentation for your records and clear instructions for future care.

Tips for Homeowners and Property Managers

• Keep records. Save all installation details and warranties.
• Schedule regular inspections. Especially after storms or high winds.
• Clear debris quickly. Don’t let leaves or snow block drainage.
• Watch for condensation. This can signal insulation issues, not always a leak.

When Skylight Installation is an Emergency

Storm damage, falling branches, or sudden leaks can’t wait. Our emergency roofing crew is on call for rapid skylight repair and temporary waterproofing.

• Immediate tarp deployment.
• Inspection for structural damage.
• Quick, safe skylight removal or replacement.

If you notice water stains, sagging drywall, or sudden drips, act fast. Mold can start in as little as 48 hours.

Costs & Time Factors

Skylight installation varies, but here’s what to expect:

• Time: A straightforward install takes a day. Complex roofs or multiple units may need two to three days.
• Cost factors: Skylight size, roof pitch, material (shingle, metal, tile), and accessibility.

Upgrades like remote-operated skylights, solar shades, or custom flashing will add to the project timeline.

FAQ

Are skylights more likely to leak than regular windows?

Not if installed and flashed properly. Most leaks come from shortcuts in flashing or skipped sealant steps.

Can you add a skylight to any roof?

Almost any roof can accommodate a skylight, but some (like flat roofs) need special attention to drainage and flashing.

How do you know if your skylight is leaking or if it’s just condensation?

Condensation often appears as fog or droplets on the inside glass, usually in cold weather. A true leak will show as water stains or drips around the frame or ceiling below.

Do skylights need special cleaning?

Clean glass as you would any window. Check the exterior for debris or buildup after storms.

Local and Seasonal Considerations 🌦️

• Heavy rain or snow? Schedule installations for drier seasons if possible.
• Tree cover: Falling branches can crack skylights. Consider protective screens or trimming back limbs.
• Storm-prone areas: Ask about impact-rated skylights and reinforced flashing.

Consult local building codes or the National Roofing Contractors Association for region-specific advice.

Ready to let the light in—without worrying about leaks?

Call Ferns Roofing now — or reach us anytime at  877-362-4465 .