Failed skylights are more than a disappointment: they’re a big problem for homeowners and commercial building owners. A failed skylight can cause damage that can compromise your roof’s integrity. Leaks, mold, mildew, stains, and wood rot are all types of problems that can occur when skylights go bad.
Once you’ve noticed the signs of failure in your skylights, from dripping water on the floor to stains on the ceiling, it’s time to get help from a reputable contractor. Knowing when to replace and when to repair can help save you money and headaches down the road.
1. Assess the damage.
Sometimes the cost of getting a repair is more than the cost of simply replacing the skylight, especially if it is old, poorly designed, or lacking in modern design. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if repairing your skylight will only lead to future repairs. When you’re meeting with contractors to discuss your upcoming skylight repair, ask the following questions to assess whether a repair is worthwhile:
- What’s causing the damage to occur?
- What will you do to repair the damage?
- How long will this repair hold?
- Is the overall integrity of the skylight still good?
- Can you see evidence of other problems around the skylight?
- Are you confident this repair will fix the problem?
While there is no right or wrong answer to these questions, the responses you get from your contractor will help paint an overall picture of the state of your skylights and will help you decide whether a replacement is warranted.
2. Know when to repair and when to replace your skylights.
Generally speaking, the most worthwhile repairs are those that can be done either as a DIY project or during a standard roof cleaning and maintenance check. Major repairs are not always worth making, because they could be evidence of a deeper problem that will not go away easily.
Skylights should be replaced when they’re nearing the end of their service life, have needed frequent repair in recent years, or when newer skylight technology has become available. Some things to know when you’re trying to decide if a replacement is warranted:
- Age of the skylight. Conventional skylights last an average of about 10 years, while solid-state VTECH skylights last 20-years and beyond.
- Type of skylight. Skylights come in different types and models including ventilating, fixed, tubular, deck-mounted, curb-mounted, and so on.
- Cause of the damage. If the glass is broken or the seal around the glass is damaged, then the skylight itself may need to be replaced.
Ultimately, your contractor can help you decide whether it’s time to replace your skylights. A good contractor will be forthcoming with this information and will also have recommendations for a newer, better product.
3. Try the best option in the market today, solid-state skylights.
VTECH is proud to produce solid-state skylights using the RIM process for the manufacturing of a single piece skylight. These top of the line skylights are the latest in waterproof skylight design. Why is a single piece skylight an advantage?
- No leaks. One-piece skylights have no opportunity for water intrusion, unlike the old models that have multiple seals and vulnerabilities.
- Minimal maintenance. Don’t worry about re-caulking or sealing your skylights: solid-state skylights are just as much a part of your roof as any shingle.
- Superior strength. We put all our skylights through a rigorous testing process to ensure superior strength and durability.
- Long-lasting performance. Our skylights are all protected by a long-lasting warranty.
Ready for New Skylights? Contact VTECH
VTECH skylights deliver the best of all worlds in skylighting. Our products need minimal to no maintenance over the course of their service life. If your current skylights fail regularly, need constant maintenance, or cost money every year just to maintain their integrity, a replacement can save money over time while also preventing the deep damage that can occur when a leak goes undetected. For more information about VTECH Skylights, call us today to learn more about our products.