There are several telltale signs that your skylight needs replacement. Having a skylight in your home is a valuable asset to you as the homeowner who can enjoy plenty of natural light and stargazing while indoors, but it also can add to the market value of your property. This feature gives any room a unique beauty and a modern feel to any home, old or new. These windows come in a variety of shapes and sizes which are also factors to consider when choosing a replacement skylight. Keep your skylight looking great and in top condition by looking out for some of these signs that indicate you might need to repair or replace yours!
7 Signs That You Need a Replacement Skylight
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The Age Of The Skylight
Although skylights come with varying life spans, the general rule is that they need replacing every ten years. It is definitely worth getting them checked if your building is around this age!
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Yellow And Discolored Skylights
As these windows get older they usually become yellowed and discolored, or murky. This causes them to lose efficiency as light will only be able to pass through partially. You may also notice bubbling on the drywall surrounding the skylight, which is unsightly. Considering that the main function of the skylight is to fill the indoor room with light from the sun, if this purpose is not being fulfilled it is time for replacement. If you feel the window is not allowing a good amount of light in, call a specialist to come and inspect to ensure all problems are spotted.
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Cracks On The Glass
This is an obvious sign that your skylight needs replacement. Cracks allow water to pass through, and although they can start off small, they can end up taking over the whole surface area of the window.
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Leaks
This is an immediate sign that your skylight needs repairs or replacement. Although they act as windows, the skylight are in fact a part of the roof, and if water is being allowed through then there is a problem that needs addressing. Water leaks can cause damage to the surrounding walls and create mildew or peeling paint.
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Condensation
If you notice condensation in or around your skylight, this is a sign that there is an issue with the sealant of the window. This can also compromise the wellbeing of your roof further down the line. If this issue is ignored, it can lead to the entire roof needing replacement, which is costly and avoidable.
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Roof Replacement
If you intend to replace your roof, it is highly advisable to also replace your skylight. The reason for this is the skylight will get disturbed as the surrounding roof area is worked on. This can lead to leaks. If you do not opt for skylight replacement and problems arise after re-roofing is complete, you will find yourself with having to redo part of the new roof, costing you more than it would have if the skylight had been replaced in the first place.
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New Technology
Even if your skylight is in good condition, there is always the option of upgrading to newer models or different shapes and sizes!
Choosing a Skylight
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Fixed Vs Vented
A fixed skylight is as the name suggests – non-movable – and functions purely to allow light indoors. A vented skylight can be opened and closed, either manually or even by remote if a newer model. This does cost more, but can add extra convenience and fresh air.
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Shape
Skylights come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Depending on your roof, and other factors, one will suit your needs best and a roof specialist will be able to determine this for you. Three common skylight shapes are ‘barrel vault’ (proportion h = l / 5), ‘ridge’ (90° isosceles triangle) and ‘half-round’ (l = 2r).
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Cost
This, too, varies widely depending on scale and shape, and whether you opt for a fixed or vented skylight. It is important to keep in mind that in addition to the installation cost, there are also ongoing maintenance costs and this might affect your choice of skylight. Again, a roof expert will be able to advise you according to your lifestyle and budget, ensuring you are left happy and confident with your final choice.
Skylights undoubtedly add extra aesthetic value and even monetary value to your home! Although repairing your skylight is an ongoing matter, often the most time and cost effective option is to have it replaced entirely! Replacing your skylight is also an opportunity to upgrade to new, better models and more modern shapes or sizes. Call Aabco Roofing today to speak to a specialist for all your skylight repairs and replacement needs.