If you are faced with a problem of leaking skylights it is wise to identify the source. Quite often the leak might have nothing to do with skylight, but be due to problems in the structure. In such instances replacing or clearing up the debris or carrying out repairs to the damaged flashing on the skylight will not fix the problem. The damage is often worse than you might think. It is therefore vital to detect the concealed probable causes as quickly as possible.
Identifying a Skylight Leak
The first step would be to hire a reputable contractor who can conduct a methodical inspection of the skylight to establish the actual source of leak. Here is a look at the most probable causes that result in leaks:
€ Faulty weather seals: Water entering through the roofing upslope of the skylight and trickling in through the framing is the most common reasons for leaks. To ensure this is not the cause, have the skylight inspected to see if it is properly sealed. This includes checking that the weather seals are in place.
€ Debris collected on the roofing: Does the leaking have a pattern? Does it occur during a particular season; such in the winter or fall? Or does the leaking get excessive after snowfall? If you have answered yes to any of these then the problem may be with the debris that has gathered around the skylight and disrupting the descending flow of water.
€ Damaged insulation and flashing: Another reason for the leak could be poorly fitted, damaged or corroded insulation or flashing.
€ Excessive condensation: Excessive condensation can also collect and begin to drip along the inside of the skylight. The main reason this
occurs when the insulation is poorly installed.
How to get rid of the Problem of a Leaky Skylight
€ A roofing contractor with a good reputation should be able to carry out checks and repairs on the skyline.
€ Installation of new flashing: Before mounting new metal flashing, the contractor will need to clean up and strip away the existing roofing tar that might have caked and dried. The next step would be to peel away the roof shingles from the sides and top of the skylight. The old metal flashing will then be replaced with new flashing.
o There are different types of flashing available, but using step flashing on each side creates a tight interlocking seal with the roof shingles. When using Head flashing remember to use it at the top and ensure it is continuous and overlaps with the topmost step flashing row. Finally, the head flashing will need to be overlapped by the shingles. This creates reinforced flashing that will prevent any leaking during precipitation.
€ Repair of Poor Insulation: Poor insulation may possibly be the cause of the leak. If that is so, the contractor will cut back into the drywall around the leaky area. Leaks typically take place if the region flanked by the skylight and the framing is not properly insulated. To secure it, the contractor will fill the gap by spraying minimal expanding foam.
If you are still cannot identify the source of the leaks or if you need assistance with your local municipal code, contact your local professional roofer.
Reference: Tom Silva. Leaky Skylights - Sometimes a drip is not really a leak at all. This Old House.
Identifying a Skylight Leak
The first step would be to hire a reputable contractor who can conduct a methodical inspection of the skylight to establish the actual source of leak. Here is a look at the most probable causes that result in leaks:
€ Faulty weather seals: Water entering through the roofing upslope of the skylight and trickling in through the framing is the most common reasons for leaks. To ensure this is not the cause, have the skylight inspected to see if it is properly sealed. This includes checking that the weather seals are in place.
€ Debris collected on the roofing: Does the leaking have a pattern? Does it occur during a particular season; such in the winter or fall? Or does the leaking get excessive after snowfall? If you have answered yes to any of these then the problem may be with the debris that has gathered around the skylight and disrupting the descending flow of water.
€ Damaged insulation and flashing: Another reason for the leak could be poorly fitted, damaged or corroded insulation or flashing.
€ Excessive condensation: Excessive condensation can also collect and begin to drip along the inside of the skylight. The main reason this
occurs when the insulation is poorly installed.
How to get rid of the Problem of a Leaky Skylight
€ A roofing contractor with a good reputation should be able to carry out checks and repairs on the skyline.
€ Installation of new flashing: Before mounting new metal flashing, the contractor will need to clean up and strip away the existing roofing tar that might have caked and dried. The next step would be to peel away the roof shingles from the sides and top of the skylight. The old metal flashing will then be replaced with new flashing.
o There are different types of flashing available, but using step flashing on each side creates a tight interlocking seal with the roof shingles. When using Head flashing remember to use it at the top and ensure it is continuous and overlaps with the topmost step flashing row. Finally, the head flashing will need to be overlapped by the shingles. This creates reinforced flashing that will prevent any leaking during precipitation.
€ Repair of Poor Insulation: Poor insulation may possibly be the cause of the leak. If that is so, the contractor will cut back into the drywall around the leaky area. Leaks typically take place if the region flanked by the skylight and the framing is not properly insulated. To secure it, the contractor will fill the gap by spraying minimal expanding foam.
If you are still cannot identify the source of the leaks or if you need assistance with your local municipal code, contact your local professional roofer.
Reference: Tom Silva. Leaky Skylights - Sometimes a drip is not really a leak at all. This Old House.