Skylight Repair and Maintenance: Preventing Leaks and Drafts

When you see a bead of water trickling down your wall beneath a skylight, it’s like a ticking clock. Every drop whispers of hidden damage. At Ferns Roofing, we know how a small leak can turn into a big problem—fast. Skylights brighten your rooms, but without the right care, they can let in more than just sunshine.

We’ve worked with every skylight brand under the sun. Residential or commercial, flat or pitched roofs—skylight leaks and drafts don’t discriminate. Whether it’s a sudden emergency or a slow drip you’ve noticed after the last storm, we’re here to help you keep your view clear and your home protected.

Why Skylights Leak 🌧️

Skylights can be the glass slipper of your roof—beautiful, but only when they fit just right. Unfortunately, a perfect fit doesn’t last forever. Here’s what causes problems:

• Aging Seals: Over time, the rubber gaskets and sealants around skylights start to dry out, crack, or shrink. Think of them as the weatherstripping on your front door—once brittle, they can’t keep out the elements.
• Cracked Flashing: Flashing is the thin metal that keeps water from seeping in at the edges. One small crack or rust spot is like a loose button on a raincoat.
• Settling Roof Structures: Roofs shift and settle with the seasons. Even a small change can stress skylight frames and open up tiny gaps.
• Improper Installation: Skylights installed without following building code or manufacturer guidelines can leak from day one.
• Severe Weather: Hail, heavy snow, and wind-driven rain test your skylight’s defenses. Storm Damage Restoration near you often starts with skylight repair after a big blow.

Signs to watch for:

• Water stains or bubbling paint around the skylight
• Visible cracks in the flashing or frame
• Interior condensation between panes (not just on the glass surface)
• Drafts you can feel, especially after windy weather

Common Repair Needs

Most skylight repairs come down to a few well-known culprits:

• Seal Replacement: The flexible seal around the skylight is the first line of defense against water. When it cracks, it’s time for a change.
• Flashing Repair: Bent, rusted, or lifted flashing needs to be reset or replaced to restore the watertight barrier.
• Glass or Lens Replacement: Skylights can crack from hail or falling branches. Even a hairline fracture can let water in.
• Condensation Control: If you see fogging or water between glass panes, the skylight’s insulating seal has probably failed.
• Interior Trim and Paint: Leaks can damage drywall, wood trim, and paint around the skylight, requiring restoration.

Maintenance Checklist

A little regular care goes a long way. Here’s how to keep your skylight leak-free:

• Check Seals and Caulking: Twice per year (spring and fall), inspect the perimeter for any gaps, cracks, or peeling.
• Inspect Flashing: After big storms or heavy winds, look for signs of lifted or damaged flashing.
• Clean the Glass Safely: Use a soft brush and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads that can scratch the surface. Clean only from a stable ladder or, better yet, from inside if possible.
• Clear Debris: Remove leaves, sticks, or snow from around the skylight to prevent pooling water.
• Look for Condensation: Persistent fogging between panes is a red flag.
• Test for Drafts: On a windy day, run your hand around the frame inside. Notice any cool air? Time for repairs.
• Seasonal Checks: Before and after winter, inspect for ice damming or snow buildup, which can force water under seals.

When to Replace

Skylights don’t last forever. Here’s when replacement makes more sense than another patch:

• Widespread Seal Failure: If seals are failing on multiple sides, a new skylight may be the best solution.
• Cracked or Clouded Glass: Deep cracks or permanent fogging between panes mean the insulating layer is gone.
• Warped Frames: Skylight frames that are bent or warped from settling or storm damage can’t be sealed reliably.
• Multiple Repairs: If you’ve patched the same skylight year after year, replacement is often more cost-effective—and gives you better energy efficiency.

Tip: The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends considering replacement after 15-20 years, even if leaks haven’t started, to avoid sudden emergencies.

Signs of Aging Seals, Cracked Flashing, and Interior Condensation

• Aging Seals: Look for rubber that’s brittle, cracked, or missing in spots. You might notice it pulling away from the frame.
• Cracked Flashing: Rust spots, lifted edges, or visible splits in the metal flashing are warning signs. Use a flashlight to check around the skylight perimeter.
• Interior Condensation: Fogging between panes, or worse, water droplets inside the skylight cavity, means the insulating seal is broken. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue—it’s a signal that water has a pathway inside.

Tips for Safe Cleaning and Seasonal Checks

Keeping your skylight clean and clear is simple, but safety comes first:

• Never climb onto a wet or icy roof.
• Use a sturdy, non-slip ladder and have a spotter if working outside.
• For hard-to-reach skylights, telescoping cleaning tools allow you to stay on the ground.
• Always use mild, non-abrasive cleaners to preserve coatings.
• Wear gloves to avoid cuts from sharp flashing or broken glass.
• Schedule checks after major storms or before winter, when temperature swings can open up small leaks.

Refer to OSHA’s basic ladder safety guidelines any time you’re working above ground level.

When to Call for Emergency Roofing Services

A skylight leak during a heavy storm isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s an emergency. Call Ferns Roofing if you notice:

• Water pouring in, not just dripping
• Sagging ceiling materials or bubbling paint
• Moldy smells or visible mold near the skylight
• Electrical outlets or fixtures wet near the leak

Storm Damage Restoration near you often includes tarping, temporary sealing, and quick-response repairs to prevent further damage. Don’t wait. Water travels fast and can damage insulation, wiring, and structural supports.

FAQ

How long does a skylight repair take?
Most minor repairs (sealant, flashing) can be finished in a few hours. Glass or full unit replacements may take a day.

Can I repair a skylight myself?
Small cleaning tasks and visual inspections are safe for most homeowners, but anything involving sealants, flashing, or glass should be handled by professionals to meet code and safety standards.

Why is there condensation inside my skylight?
Interior condensation typically means the insulating seal is broken. This lets humid air into the space between panes—time for a replacement or professional repair.

Will my new skylight be more energy efficient?
Modern skylights offer better insulation and coatings, helping prevent drafts and reducing heat loss compared to older models.

Local and Seasonal Considerations

Where you live shapes how and when skylight problems appear.

• Cold Climates: Watch for ice dams and snow buildup, which can force meltwater under seals.
• Humid Regions: Persistent condensation is more likely, so ventilation and regular checks are key.
• Storm-Prone Areas: Hail and high winds can crack glass or lift flashing—inspect after every major event.
• Urban Locations: Pollution and debris can clog up seals and drains; more frequent cleaning is often necessary.

Whether you’re in a city high-rise or a country cottage, seasonal checks and prompt repairs are the best defense.

A leak-free skylight means a brighter, safer space—rain or shine. If you spot signs of trouble, don’t wait for the next storm to test your luck.

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