Sign you need Skylight Replacement

April 26, 2024

Skylights add beauty and natural light to your home—but they won’t last forever. Over time, wear and tear, aging, and weather conditions can take a toll. In this article, we walk through six clear signs that it may be time to replace your skylight to avoid further damage to your home.

Six signs you need skylight replacement

Skylights are a beautiful feature that people simply love since they allow so much natural light into the home. However, despite the best of intentions and care, there are times when homeowners will need a skylight replacement.

Skylights don’t last forever. They are just like anything else in your home and must be replaced eventually. Luckily, a high-quality skylight can last about as long as a roof when it is taken care of.

Knowing what to watch for with your skylight can ensure you get a qualified Greater Ottawa area roofing contractor to replace it before it can cause damage to your home.


1. Water damage

Water damage is probably the number one sign that you have a skylight that needs replacing. There are several ways in which water damage can be seen.

You may notice stains around the ceiling where the skylight is located, indicating water has been leaking through your skylight and has now stained the ceiling. Other people find that during heavy rains, they often see water coming into their homes via the skylight.

Whether the water damage is seen in real-time or you see its aftereffects, replacing your skylight is the only way to prevent further damage.


2. Cracked glass

When you look at your skylight, do you see cracks or chips in the glass? Any time the glass has become damaged, it is time to consider a replacement.

After all, a crack in the glass can cause water to leak, it is not energy efficient by any means, and it can be a huge eyesore. Having the skylight replaced ensures you are getting something beautiful and energy-efficient.


3. Skylight age: over 20 years

Skylights are similar to roofs because they aren’t meant to last forever. The lifespan of a skylight depends on the quality, installation, and environmental factors.

However, fifteen to twenty years after an installation is when most professionals will recommend that homeowners consider a skylight replacement.

By replacing an old skylight, you could see better energy efficiency, and you may find a new style that you love even more than the original. You may even notice more natural light allowed in with a new and improved skylight.


4. Replacing your roof? Replace the skylight too

If your skylight has never been replaced, but you are in the process of replacing your roof, then you may find it best to replace both together.

After all, many people have found a new roof with an old skylight can be a recipe for issues later. Issues will arise only sometimes, but they can happen, especially if you are not using a professional roofer to handle either task.

If your skylight is getting up there in age, or presenting any signs of damage, then replacing it at the same time as your roof might be the best option.


5. Discolored glass

If the glass on your skylight is cloudy-looking or otherwise discolored, it is time to replace it. While there may not be any damage to the actual skylight itself, it does not allow in the natural light it once did.

In these cases, it is not doing the job you want, so replacing it may make you happier in the long run.


6. Feeling a draft

If you can feel air coming in around your skylight, then you know it is no longer energy-efficient! When you feel air coming in, the interior air leaks out, making your home HVAC unit work harder.

Replacing the skylight could save you money on your energy bills.


Get a free quote for skylight replacement in Ottawa

It is essential that a qualified roofer who knows skylights works on your Ottawa skylight replacement project. Luckily, Firon Roofing is well-versed in skylight replacement and can help you with it.

For your free quote, give us a call at (613) 821-6222.

Trust the Roofing Leaders

We bring decades of experience, unmatched craftsmanship, and premium materials to every project.

Free Quote

Get a Free Quote

In-home consultation. No obligation.