My Skylight Is Leaking Water – How To Fix it?

A leaking skylight can cause big problems like water damage and harm your home’s structure. Don’t ignore it, as even a small leak can lead to rot and mold. But, you can fix skylight leaks and keep your home safe. This guide will show you how to find the leak, understand its causes, check for damage, and fix it yourself or call a pro.

The Source of a Leaking Skylight

Fixing a leaking skylight starts with identifying where the water is entering. Skylights can leak due to various issues such as damaged seals, flashing problems, or cracks in the glass. Knowing the exact cause is critical for applying the right solution and preventing future leaks.

Condensation or Actual Leak?

One of the first steps is to determine whether the moisture you’re seeing is due to condensation or an actual leak. Condensation often forms on the inside of a skylight due to high humidity levels, while leaks involve water entering from outside.

Signs of a Leak vs. Condensation:

• Leak Indicators: Water stains on the ceiling, dripping water, or visible cracks in the skylight’s glass or frame point to a real leak.
• Condensation: This usually occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with the cooler glass of the skylight, leading to water droplets forming inside.

If you notice discolored ceilings, pooling water, or persistent moisture, it’s more likely that your skylight is leaking rather than just forming condensation.

Inspecting the Skylight and Frame

A thorough inspection of the skylight and its surrounding area can help you pinpoint the exact problem. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to check:

1. Glass: Look for cracks or chips in the glass. Even small cracks can let water in over time.
2. Seals: Examine the seals around the skylight frame. If they’re broken, missing, or worn out, this could be the entry point for water.
3. Flashing: Flashing is the metal that surrounds the skylight to direct water away from it. Inspect it for rust, damage, or improper installation.
4. Weatherstripping: If the weatherstripping around the skylight is cracked or peeling, this could be allowing moisture to seep through.

Identifying the source of the leak allows you to apply the correct fix, whether it’s sealing cracks, replacing weatherstripping, or fixing the flashing.

Common Causes of Skylight Leaks

Several factors can lead to skylight leaks. Here are the most common causes:

1. High Humidity and Condensation

In areas like bathrooms or laundry rooms, where humidity is high, skylights can easily accumulate condensation. This can drip down, making it appear as though the skylight is leaking.

Prevention Tips:

• Add Insulation: Proper insulation can reduce condensation by keeping the indoor temperature more consistent with the glass surface.
• Improve Ventilation: Installing a vent or using a dehumidifier in high-humidity rooms can also help prevent moisture buildup on skylights.

2. Damaged Shingles and Flashing

The flashing around a skylight can wear out over time, especially in homes with steep roofs where water runoff is heavy. Damaged flashing is responsible for approximately 10% of skylight leaks. If the shingles surrounding the skylight are cracked or missing, water can pool around the edges, leading to leaks.

Solution:

• Regularly inspect the flashing and shingles around the skylight. If you notice any damage or wear, replace the flashing or repair the shingles to prevent further leaks.

3. Cracked Glass Panes

Older skylights are more prone to developing cracks due to natural wear and tear or impacts from hailstorms. Cracked panes allow water to enter easily, especially during heavy rains.

Solution:

• If your skylight glass is cracked, replacement is usually the best option. Consider upgrading to a more durable material, especially if the skylight is more than 20 years old. Replacing the skylight when re-roofing can save on labor and installation costs.

Identifying Water Damage from Roof Leaks

Water damage caused by a leaking skylight can extend beyond the skylight itself. To stop further damage, it’s important to inspect areas surrounding the skylight for signs of trouble. Here’s what to look for:

1. Ceiling Stains: Discoloration or spots on the ceiling near the skylight indicate that water is seeping through the roof.
2. Mold Growth: Mold or mildew near the skylight points to moisture buildup. This is a serious issue as mold can spread quickly and impact air quality.
3. Pooling Water: If you notice water pooling around the skylight after a rainstorm, it means the seal has been broken, and immediate repairs are needed.

Addressing water damage early on prevents further structural issues like wood rot and reduces the risk of mold growth.

How to Fix a Leaking Skylight

Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, there are several methods you can use to repair it, depending on the severity.

DIY Methods for Minor Leaks

If you’re dealing with a minor leak, there are some simple fixes you can try on your own. Here are the most effective solutions for small leaks:

1. Seal Cracks with Caulk: Use a high-quality, weatherproof caulk to fill in any cracks or gaps around the skylight frame. This is especially useful if the leak is caused by small gaps in the seal.
2. Replace Worn Gaskets or Weatherstripping: If the gaskets or weatherstripping are damaged, replacing them can provide an effective seal against water infiltration. Weatherstripping kits are widely available and relatively simple to install.
3. Re-Caulk the Skylight Frame: Over time, the caulking around the skylight may degrade. Reapply caulk to the areas where the frame meets the glass or the roof to restore a waterproof seal.

Professional Skylight Repair Services

For larger leaks or situations where DIY fixes aren’t enough, it’s best to call a professional roofing contractor. Here’s what a professional can do:

1. Thorough Inspection: Professionals will inspect not only the skylight but the surrounding roof, flashing, and shingles to determine the exact source of the leak.
2. Repair or Replacement: Depending on the damage, they may repair the affected areas or recommend a full skylight replacement if necessary. They can also replace damaged flashing or seals with more durable materials.
3. Structural Repairs: If the water has caused extensive damage to the surrounding roof or framing, a professional can perform the necessary repairs to ensure the leak is fully addressed.

Preventing Future Skylight Leaks

The best way to avoid future skylight leaks is by ensuring proper installation and regular maintenance. Here’s how you can keep your skylight leak-free for years to come:

• Professional Installation: Always hire a skilled professional to install or replace your skylight to ensure it’s properly sealed and flashed.
• Routine Inspections: Check your skylight at least once a year for cracks, worn seals, or damaged flashing. Keeping up with inspections can catch small problems before they become major issues.
• Quick Repairs: Fix any damage you spot immediately to prevent larger leaks. Small cracks or worn-out weatherstripping can often be handled on your own, but more serious problems should be addressed by a professional.

By staying on top of skylight maintenance and repairs, you can prevent leaks, protect your home from water damage, and extend the life of your skylight.

FAQs

Q: Can a skylight leak during heavy rain?
A: Yes, skylights are especially prone to leaking during heavy rain if there are issues with the seals, flashing, or if the skylight was improperly installed. Water can seep through cracks, gaps, or damaged materials, leading to leaks inside the home.

Q: Do older skylights leak more often?
A: Older skylights are more susceptible to leaks due to wear and tear on seals, weatherstripping, and the glass itself. Over time, materials degrade, increasing the risk of leaks. If your skylight is more than 15-20 years old, it may be time for a replacement.

Q: Can I reseal my skylight without replacing it?
A: Yes, in many cases, you can reseal a skylight by applying new caulk or replacing weatherstripping. This can often stop minor leaks without the need for a full replacement, provided the glass and frame are still in good condition.

Q: Is it possible for a skylight to leak due to poor roof ventilation?
A: Poor roof ventilation can lead to condensation buildup around skylights, which might be mistaken for a leak. Improving attic ventilation can help reduce moisture levels, preventing condensation from forming on the inside of the skylight.

Q: Should I replace my skylight when re-roofing my home?
A: It’s often recommended to replace skylights during a roof replacement, especially if they are older or show signs of wear. This ensures the skylight and roof are properly integrated, reducing the risk of future leaks.