How to Avoid Common Skylight Installation Errors

Why it Happens:

Flashing, the material used to seal the skylight’s edges, is often installed incorrectly due to inexperience or a rushed job.

Why It’s Bad:

Poorly installed flashing is the primary cause of skylight leaks. Water can seep into your roof, causing rot, mold, and other damage.

How to Avoid It:

Follow the manufacturer’s flashing instructions meticulously, or hire an experienced pro to carry out the work for you. Use high-quality flashing materials – and be sure to check that the flashing is properly sealed and layered under the shingles for optimal protection.

Why it Happens:

Waterproofing mistakes often occur when installers assume that flashing alone is sufficient or when sealants are applied incorrectly.

Why It’s Bad:

Without adequate waterproofing, rain and snow can easily find their way into your home, leading to interior damage and significant repair costs.

How to Avoid It:

Use a combination of waterproofing techniques, including roofing underlayment, flashing, and sealants designed for skylights. Double-check all seals and ensure that your skylight sits flush with the roof to prevent water pooling.

Why it Happens:

Homeowners and inexperienced installers may choose a location without considering the roof structure, the path of sunlight, or ventilation needs.

Why It’s Bad:

Installing the skylight in the wrong spot can lead to uneven lighting, overheating, or potentially even structural issues if it interferes with roof trusses.

How to Avoid It:

Work with a skilled professional to assess the ideal location for your skylight. Consider the sun’s movement throughout the day, the room’s purpose, and the roof’s framing to ensure the location maximizes light and efficiency.

Why it Happens:

In an effort to save money, some homeowners opt for skylights without energy-efficient features, such as double glazing or low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings.

Why It’s Bad:

Skylights without energy-efficient features can increase heating and cooling costs, cause glare, and make the room uncomfortable during extreme weather.

How to Avoid It:

Invest in skylights with energy-efficient glazing options, such as Low-E coatings, UV protection, and insulated glass. At Solatube, we offer a wide selection of skylights that fit this criteria.

Why it Happens:

Fixed skylights are often chosen for their simplicity, but because they don’t open, they don’t offer any ventilation. People sometimes overlook this feature when they install skylights in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.

Why It’s Bad:

Poor ventilation can lead to excessive moisture buildup, resulting in condensation, mold, and mildew in the surrounding areas.

How to Avoid It:

While fixed skylights can be a great option for low-moisture rooms, choose vented skylights for moisture-prone areas, like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. These skylights will ensure proper airflow and humidity control.

Why it Happens:

Insulation around the skylight is sometimes overlooked, especially in DIY installations, leaving gaps that allow drafts and heat transfer.

Why It’s Bad:

Poor insulation can lead to heat loss in winter, heat gain in summer, and increased energy bills. It can also cause condensation around the skylight frame.

How to Avoid It:

Install insulation around the skylight opening and use skylights with insulated frames or glazing. Check for drafts after installation and seal any gaps promptly.

Solatube skylights feature dual-pane glass and integrated thermal barriers to help combat draft issues and heat transfer.

Why it Happens:

Once installed, skylights are often forgotten until a problem arises. Regular cleaning and basic maintenance are frequently overlooked.

Why It’s Bad:

Neglecting maintenance can lead to clogged drainage channels, damaged seals, and a shorter lifespan for your skylight.

How to Avoid It:

Clear debris from around the skylight and ensure that seals and flashing remain intact. Address minor issues promptly to avoid costly repairs later.