As beneficial and beautiful as skylights are, when they leak it’s a major nuisance. However, sometimes it’s not obvious to homeowners what’s actually leaking. Is it the roof or the skylight? Keep reading to learn how to identify a leaky skylight, the causes, how to prevent the problem, and when it’s actually a leaky roof issue.
Identifying a Leaking Skylight
Sometimes what appears to be a leaky skylight is actually nothing more than condensation on the glass. This happens because of humidity and the moisture trickles down the inside of the glass. For many homeowners, it’s not always easy to recognize the difference between condensation and an actual leak. That’s why it’s always a good idea to call a professional roofer to come out to the home and check out the skylight and the roof.
What Causes a Skylight to Leak?
If the skylight was recently installed, it may not have been placed correctly. In cases when the skylight has been installed for some time and there’s never been a problem, it may be a flashing issue. Wind and hailstorms can damage the flashing paths along the skylight.
Another common cause of a leaky skylight is poor roof maintenance. Regular roof inspections done once a year are great for catching problems that may cause skylights to leak. Also, these inspections identify other problems. For example, are there water stains on your ceiling around the skylight? While you might at first glance think this is an issue with the skylight, a roof inspection might reveal it’s the result of missing shingles or another roof problem.
Preventing the Problem
The number one way to avoid problems such as a leaky skylight is to schedule routine roof inspection services. If you’re comfortable going on your roof, you can do this yourself. However, it’s advisable to hire professionals to inspect the roof because it can be dangerous, you don’t always know what to look for, and they can make repairs quickly.
Controlling humidity levels in your home prevents these problems too. Skylights in bathrooms and laundry areas tend to have higher humidity levels and lead to condensation around the glass. However, this problem can also happen in other rooms during colder months when the heat is being used. You can avoid humidity problems by installing an appropriate ventilation system.
When Is It a Leaky Roof Issue?
If you notice water stains on your ceiling that are nowhere near the skylight, it’s a safe bet that the problem isn’t with your skylight. The only way to know for sure is to have the roof inspected by a certified roofer. Even if the leak is around the skylight’s frame, the problem’s not always cut and dry. Roof leaks can originate from one place and travel to another. A thorough inspection is the only way to know for sure what you’re dealing and what repairs need to be made.
Are you having an issue with a skylight in your Atlanta area home? Contact your local licensed roofers and skylight experts at Findlay Roofing today!