Replacing a skylight is more complex than simply swapping out the lens or frame and we always recommend calling an expert to help you. Most good roofing companies can inspect and install new lenses at a reasonable cost. At Desert Sky Roofing, we understand the unique challenges of working with different skylights. We special order the exact lenses that need replacing and ensure that your new skylight lenses are installed securely and properly sealed. It is important that it is done correctly to withstand Arizona’s tough climate. Whether you’re replacing an acrylic lens or upgrading to a double-pane skylight, our skylight specialists do the job right the first time! Here is what you can expect from a professional skylight replacement job and how to replace skylight lenses.
Correctly measure skylight lens
Skylight lenses come in many different sizes, and it is important to get the correct size for your skylight frame. Sometimes one half of an inch difference in skylight size can be the cause of leaks into your home. At Desert Sky Roofing we will measure the skylight lens and order the correct replacement lenses.
Special Order Skylight Lenses
At Desert Sky Roofing we believe in installing high-grade acrylic lenses. We special order every skylight replacement from the manufacturer. While there are many common sizes, every skylight is engineered for a specific size lens. If the lens size is incorrect your skylight may leak. Make sure your roofing contractor orders the correct size lens!
Clean around skylight before work begins
When the skylight lens is removed, there is a chance for debris to fall into the home through the opening. A homeowner can expect some minor dust and debris but a good roofing company will try to minimize that debris by cleaning around the replacement skylight before work begins.
Remove skylight lenses
Skylight lenses are usually secured by an outer frame that sits over the skylight. This frame is usually held on by screws either on the side of the frame or on the top of the frame. After the screws are removed the skylight installer must remove the old lenses being careful not to break the lenses or allow much debris to enter the home. Often times old skylight lenses have been secured improperly using different glues or silicones. When this happens, skylight removals can be very difficult if not impossible. Sometimes it is determined that a new frame and lens will need to be installed instead of just the lenses.
Clean drip channel
Over time the skylight drip channel will get clogged up with dirt that makes it past the lens. This dirt will acquire in the drip channel causing problems for the water to escape. It is important to clean the drip channel of the skylights before replacing the lenses.
Check Weeps Hole Position and Serviceability
The skylight channels should have drip holes, or weeps holes, on the downward side. Many skylight frames come without pre-drilled holes. The installer should know to check for the hole position and make sure it is on the downward edge and check that it is not blocked by debris or roof coating. If the hole is not present it is important to drill a hole in the frame.
Install New Skylight Lens
Installation is relatively easy but can require some special tools depending on the type of skylight. It is important to make sure the skylight is placed evenly on the skylight frame and that the skylight is the proper size for the frame.
Silicone and Skylight Edges
Technically, if a skylight is properly installed it should not need silicone around the edges of the skylight. If water makes it past the lens and under the outer frame it should fall into the drip channel and drip out of the weeps hole. However, some installers like to put a bead of silicone to help prevent water from going past the frame. While this is not always best, when it is accomplished, the correct silicone should be applied. Check with the manufacturer for the proper type of silicone that should be used.
Roof repair around skylight
Finally, after the skylight is replaced it is important that your Tucson roofing contractor check the area around the skylight to ensure no leaks are at the roofline of your skylight. A good roofing contractor will know exactly how to perform roof repair in that location.
If you need your skylights replaced or your skylights repaired, consider calling Desert Sky roofing. We specialize in this area and will do the job right the first time. We can check all your skylights for serviceability and ensure the proper lens is installed. Our prices are fair and we can usually get the job completed quickly.