Skylight projects are not always about installing brand-new fixtures. Often, they involve retrofitting, which requires the careful removal of old, worn-out skylights to make way for modern, efficient models. This process demands precision and expertise to ensure seamless integration with the existing structure.
The most opportune moment to replace aging skylights is during a roof replacement. This strategy is not just convenient; it is a smart financial decision. By aligning the skylight replacement with roofing work, you save both time and money. This approach also allows for the synchronization of warranties for both the skylights and the roofing material, ensuring comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.
Elevate Your Home with Innovative Skylights
The era of outdated, leaking bubble skylights has come to an end. Today’s skylight replacements bring a new level of sophistication and functionality to your home. Beyond simply illuminating your spaces, modern skylights redefine the aesthetic appeal of your roof, seamlessly blending form and function.
Experience the Future of Skylights with No Leak Solar Powered “Fresh Air” Skylights
Transitioning from a fixed, bubble skylight to a No Leak Solar Powered “Fresh Air” Skylight is not just an upgrade; it’s a transformation. These advanced skylights feature energy-efficient glass that floods your interiors with natural light, while also providing the option to ventilate your home with fresh air. Unlike traditional skylights, these models can be opened to promote air circulation, effectively reducing indoor air pollutants that accumulate from daily activities.
The integration of solar-powered technology minimizes dependency on electricity, contributing to a more energy-efficient home. This forward-thinking approach not only enhances your living environment but also aligns with sustainable living practices.
Control Light and Ambiance with Solar-Powered Blinds
The addition of solar-powered blinds to your skylight system offers unprecedented control over the light entering your home. With over 50 colors and patterns available, you can effortlessly customize the look of your ceiling or “fifth wall,” whether you prefer a subtle design or a bold statement. These blinds can be installed at the factory or added during the skylight installation process, providing flexibility and convenience in achieving the perfect ambiance.
Comprehensive Guide to Skylight Replacement
Prioritize Safety and Preparation
When embarking on the replacement of a skylight, safety is paramount. Begin by securing your workspace with roof brackets and a staging plank. Wearing a fall-protection safety harness is essential to ensure a secure and stable working environment. This preparatory step not only safeguards against potential accidents but also provides a solid foundation for the task ahead.
Removing Existing Shingles and Exposing the Roof Deck
Utilize a flat pry bar to meticulously detach two courses of roof shingles directly above the skylight. This careful extraction exposes the underlying roof deck. Progressively, pry away the shingles along both sides of the skylight, ensuring at least 12 inches of roof deck is visible. Retain the removed shingles for potential reuse, preserving their condition for later stages.
Detaching the Old Skylight
With the roof deck exposed, focus on the skylight itself. Gently pry the existing skylight out of its opening. Precision is key here, as the goal is to avoid any damage to the surrounding structure. This phase of the process requires patience and careful handling to ensure a clean removal, leaving the opening ready for the new installation.
Preparing the Skylight Frame for Installation
Enhance the structural integrity of the skylight frame by fastening extension jambs into the pre-existing grooves. These grooves, running around the interior of the frame, provide a stable foundation for the extensions. Next, screw filler strips alongside the extensions on all four sides. This reinforcement ensures a seamless fit when the new skylight is placed.
Installing Trim and Waterproofing
Proceed by gluing and nailing wood trim atop the extensions. Precision in cutting the trim to match the exact dimensions of the existing roof opening is crucial. Once the trim is securely in place, apply a self-sealing membrane along the roof shingles directly below the skylight opening. This membrane must overlap the upper edge of the shingles, providing an additional layer of waterproofing to protect against leaks.
Positioning and Securing the New Skylight
Carefully position the new skylight within the prepared opening, ensuring it is perfectly centered. Use 1½-inch roofing nails to secure the skylight via its nailing flange, spacing the nails 6 to 8 inches apart. This uniform spacing guarantees the skylight is firmly anchored, ready to withstand the elements.
Applying the Self-Sealing Membrane and Flashing
Adhere another strip of self-sealing membrane along the bottom edge of the skylight. This membrane should overlap the previous layer, extending slightly onto the skylight frame. Use a utility knife to slit the ends of the membrane, allowing it to lay flush against the roof deck. Next, cut shorter pieces of membrane for the sides of the skylight, pressing them firmly onto the roof deck and skylight frame.
Slide the preformed aluminum flashing into position along the base of the skylight. Secure the flashing by pressing it tightly against the skylight and nailing it through the flashing into the skylight frame. Begin reinstalling the saved roof shingles at the bottom of the skylight, taking care not to pierce the aluminum flashing with nails.
Sealing the Skylight Perimeter
Continue the waterproofing process by adhering long strips of self-sealing membrane up both sides of the skylight, ensuring overlap with the lower membrane strips. Install aluminum step flashing over each shingle, nailing the flashing to the side of the skylight. Alternate between shingles and step flashing as you work upwards on both sides of the skylight.
To seal the top of the skylight, apply a long strip of self-sealing membrane. If there are any gaps or exposed seams in the roofing felt, add an additional layer of membrane. Attach counter flashing to the bottom and sides of the skylight, followed by the top. Nail the counter flashing securely to the roof and engage the locking tabs on each side of the head flashing, securing it to the skylight.
Final Touches and Sealing
To complete the installation, cover the counter flashing at the top of the skylight with a final strip of self-sealing membrane. Finish by nailing the remaining roof shingles into place. Inside, apply a bead of caulk around the perimeter of the skylight trim, creating an airtight seal that enhances insulation and prevents drafts.
Selecting the Right Installer
After selecting your new skylight, the next crucial step is its installation. The decision on whom to entrust with this task should not be taken lightly.
Duration and Scope of Installation
Typically, a single skylight replacement is a swift process, often completed within a few hours. The majority of this work is performed on the rooftop, where the installer will meticulously remove the old skylight and position the new one in its place. This process involves more than just swapping out the skylight; it includes the careful replacement of the flashing around it to ensure a seamless integration with your roof.
The Importance of Interior Work
In some instances, the installer may need to address interior aspects, such as repainting or refining the top of the light well. These finishing touches are vital, ensuring that your new skylight not only functions flawlessly but also blends aesthetically with your home’s interior.
The Advantages of Upgrading
Upgrading to the latest skylight model brings a host of benefits that extend beyond mere aesthetics. The No Leak guarantee offers peace of mind, assuring you that your investment is protected against potential water damage. Enhanced energy efficiency means lower utility bills and a more comfortable living environment. The influx of clear, natural light will transform your space, creating a brighter and more inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the option for fresh air ventilation improves indoor air quality, making your home healthier and more enjoyable for years to come.
Conclusion
Replacing or retrofitting a skylight is more than just a home improvement project; it’s an investment in the future of your living space. By choosing modern skylight options and aligning their installation with roofing work, you ensure enhanced efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and a reduction in long-term maintenance costs. Embracing innovations like solar-powered technology and customizable blinds not only improves your home’s functionality but also contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. Trusting a professional roofing contractor for your skylight needs guarantees a seamless integration with your existing structure and comprehensive, worry-free results.
FAQs
- Do roofing contractors handle skylight replacements?
Yes, roofing contractors are well-equipped to handle skylight replacements. They have the expertise to manage both the removal of old skylights and the installation of new ones, ensuring a proper fit and integration with your existing roof. - Is it a good idea to replace skylights when getting a new roof?
Absolutely. Replacing skylights during a roof replacement is a smart choice. It saves time and money while allowing you to synchronize warranties for both the skylights and the roofing material. - What are the benefits of modern skylights compared to older models?
Modern skylights offer improved energy efficiency, better aesthetics, and advanced features like ventilation and solar-powered technology. They enhance natural light, reduce indoor pollutants, and contribute to energy savings. - How do solar-powered skylights work?
Solar-powered skylights use solar panels to operate ventilation functions, reducing reliance on electrical power. They feature energy-efficient glass and can be opened to allow fresh air into your home, improving air quality and energy efficiency.
- Can I customize the amount of light and ambiance with my new skylight?
Yes, solar-powered blinds can be added to your skylight system, offering precise control over light and ambiance. With a variety of colors and patterns available, you can tailor the look and feel of your space to your preferences.
