Do Skylights Always Leak? | What Myrtle Beach Homeowners Need to Know

Skylights are often seen as a luxurious addition to a home. They bring natural light into spaces that might otherwise feel dim or closed off. 

But there’s a persistent question that comes up when homeowners consider installing or replacing a skylight: “Don’t they always leak?” 

And while they’re more prone to leaks than roofs without them, there are certain factors that contribute to skylight leaks that you can avoid if you do your due diligence.

In this article, we’ll explore why people say skylights are prone to leaking, how to spot trouble before it gets serious, and the best ways to prevent skylight leaks from happening in the first place. 

Do Skylights Actually Leak?

Skylights are often blamed for being a common source of roof leaks in homes that have them. But do they always leak? 

The short answer is no. Skylights should not leak if they are installed correctly and properly maintained. 

There are a number of factors that can contribute to leaking from a skylight though. These typically include:

1. Improper Installation
   When it comes to sealing your skylights, attention to detail is crucial. A roofer is required to properly flash the area and make sure the sealant provides a snug fit. An issue we see in leaky skylights comes from nails driven through the flange or failing to follow manufacturer guidelines for installation. These mistakes can compromise the system entirely.
   
2. Roofing Issues
   Even a perfectly good skylight can leak if the roofing around it begins to fail. Poor craftsmanship, mismatched materials, or installing the wrong type of skylight for a specific roof slope can all lead to problems. If you have a low-sloped roof, water pooling is a common issue that can cause leaking. In this scenario, water isn’t able to flow off of your roof quickly enough to prevent water from making its way under your roof shingles at the top of the skylight. 
   
   
3. Product Failure or Age-Related Wear
   Skylights, like any other part of a home, can wear down over time. Rubber seals dry out, glass seals fail, and flashing corrodes. This is particularly true in areas with salt air or frequent storms like Myrtle Beach. Homeowners often try to stretch their skylight across multiple roof lifespans, but this can  increase the risk of failure. It’s best practice to have your skylights replaced at the same time as a roof replacement (it’s also much cheaper to do it this way in the long run!)

So while skylights can be prone to leaking, it’s not always the case. As a homeowner, it’s ideal to have a roof inspection completed on a yearly basis. Doing so will help you stop a potential issue with your skylight before it starts. Concerned about your skylight? Schedule a free inspection to catch small issues early.

Signs Your Skylight Might Be Leaking

While a stream of water coming from your skylight is a very clear indicator that the issue is coming from your skylight, there are other signs of leaks that may not be as obvious.

These include:

• Water stains around the skylight or on nearby drywall.
• Mold or mildew forming due to trapped moisture.
• Condensation inside the glass, which often signals a failed seal between panes.
• Dripping or dampness after storms, especially around the skylight casing.

These problems might be subtle at first, but they tend to worsen over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Leaking Skylights

Are certain skylight types more prone to leaking?

Skylights on low-slope or flat roofs might be more susceptible to leaks due to water pooling.

How often should skylights be inspected?

It's recommended to inspect skylights at least once a year to identify and address potential issues before they escalate.

Are there alternatives to traditional skylights that reduce leak risks?

Yes, solar tubes or sun tunnels are alternatives that bring natural light into spaces with a reduced risk of leaks, as they have fewer components exposed to the elements.

Is condensation on my skylight a sign of a leak?

Not necessarily. Condensation can result from high indoor humidity levels, especially in areas like bathrooms or kitchens. However, persistent condensation between glass panes indicates seal failure, which requires attention.

How to Prevent Skylight Leaks

There are a few ways to prevent leaking from your skylight, this allows you to have both natural light in your home and peace of mind that your system will hold up.

1. Hire a Trusted Roofing Contractor
   Choose a roofing professional who knows how to properly install and flash skylights especially those familiar with your climate and roof structure. Meaning a local roofing company with many years in business and great reviews would likely be your best choice. To get an idea of some great local roofers in the area, check out the 9 Best Roofing Companies in Myrtle Beach.
   
   
2. Schedule Regular Roof Maintenance
   Leaks can go undetected until there is more serious and visible damage. Having a regular routine of yearly maintenance can help prevent or stop leaks before they start. This is an excellent way to make sure your skylight and your roof and in tip top shape.
   
   
3. Choose the Right Skylight
   Work with a trusted roofer to help you choose the best option for you. Based on the slope of your roof, a roofer will be able to make the right suggestion of either a deck-mounted or curb-mounted skylight for your roof. 

It’s important to note that if you’re looking for a more low-maintenance option, solar tubes may be a great fit for your home. Solar tubes are less invasive to install, less likely to leak, and can bring in quite a bit of natural light despite their smaller size compared to skylights. 

Is a Skylight the Best Option for Your Roof?

Skylights don’t always leak, but when they do, it’s usually preventable. Age, poor installation, or the wrong product tend to be the primary culprits. However, with the right roofing contractors and a proactive mindset, your skylight can be a great source of natural light for your home, not a headache. 

So, if the possibility of a leaking skylight is a main concern for you, you may want to consider these questions to make the right decision for your home.

1. Do you feel confident in your ability to upkeep the maintenance needs of a skylight?
   
   
2. Are you planning to have a skylight installed during a roof replacement? If not, do you have the budget set aside to ensure you hire a qualified professional to install your skylight?
   
   
3. Have you looked into the benefits of solar tubes and decided that a skylight is a better option?

If you answered yes to these questions, you may be ready to move forward with your skylight journey! Still have questions? Whether you’re considering skylights, roof replacements, or repairs, our team is here to help you make the right choice for your home. Contact us today or get an instant online roof estimate.

Here’s to brightening up your place!