A skylight is a wonderful addition to any home. It allows natural light to flood in, making the home feel bright and airy. However, if there is a leak in the skylight, it can cause some issues for your roof. In this blog post, we will discuss how a skylight leak can damage a roof. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent leaks from happening in the first place!
What Are the Most Common Causes of Skylight Leaks?
There are a few different reasons why skylights may start to leak. Let’s take a look at some of the most common ones below.
Improper Installation
The most common cause of skylight leaks is improper installation. If the skylight is not installed properly, it can create gaps and holes that allow water to seep in. In addition, if the flashing around the skylight is not installed correctly, it can also lead to leaks. That’s why it’s so important to hire a qualified contractor to install your skylight!
Poor Maintenance
Another common cause of skylight leaks is poor maintenance. If you don’t clean your skylight regularly, debris can build up and clog the drains. This can cause water to back up and leak into your home. It’s important to clean your skylight at least once a year to prevent this from happening.
Age
Finally, a skylight may leak due to its age. Over time, the sealant around the skylight can degrade, allowing water to seep in. It’s also possible that the flashing around the skylight will become loose over time, which can also lead to leaks.
How Does a Skylight Leak Damage a Roof?
If a skylight leaks, the water can damage the structure of your roof. The leak can cause the wood around the skylight to rot, and it can also damage the shingles. In addition, if the leak is not fixed quickly, it can lead to mold and mildew growth. Not only is this unsightly, but it can also be dangerous for your family’s health.
How Can You Prevent Skylight Leaks?
There are a few things you can do to prevent skylight leaks:
- Hire a qualified contractor to install your skylight. This way you can ensure that the job gets done right the first time.
- Clean your skylight regularly. This will prevent debris from clogging the drains and causing water to back up.
- Inspect your skylight regularly. Look for cracks or gaps in the sealant, and make sure the flashing is still secure.
- Get leaks fixed ASAP. The longer you wait, the more damage it will do to your roof.
The Bottom Line
There’s no doubt that a skylight can add beauty and value to your home. But if it leaks, it can cause serious damage to your roof. That’s why it’s so important to have a qualified contractor install your skylight, and to inspect and clean it regularly. And if you do find a leak, don’t delay in getting it fixed. The sooner you do, the better!
Are you having problems with your roof? Click here to request a free estimate from Ainger Roofing today!
