Skylight Repair and Replacement – Tucson

Skylights can be a beautiful feature in any home, providing natural light, an airy feel, and even potential savings on electricity. However, like many parts of a home, skylights require maintenance and, eventually, replacement. In the dry, arid climate of Tucson, Arizona, homeowners face unique challenges in maintaining skylights due to the extreme sunlight and high temperatures. Desert Sky Roofing conducts skylight repair and skylight replacement for most skylights so this article will focus on replacing aging acrylic skylight lenses why to upgrade to double-pane skylights.

Inspect Your Skylight Lenses

Acrylic lenses are one of the most common materials used in skylights due to their light weight and affordability. However, the relentless Arizona sun can accelerate the aging of these lenses and that is why it is important to regularly inspect your skylight lenses. Over time, exposure to UV rays causes the acrylic to become brittle and discolored. You might notice cracks, or a cloudy appearance, or sometimes a yellowing appearance which are all signs that the lens should be replaced.

In Tucson’s dry desert environment, the combination of high heat during the day and cool temperatures at night creates stress on the acrylic material. This constant expansion and contraction weaken the skylight over time, increasing the likelihood of it breaking during a hailstorm or under the pressure of falling debris.

Homeowners should regularly inspect their skylights for signs of wear, particularly older models with acrylic lenses. Replacing these lenses before they fail can save money and prevent water leaks, drafts, and the need for more extensive roof repairs. Call Desert Sky Roofing to inspect your skylight lenses!

Install Double-pane Skylight Lenses

When considering a skylight replacement, one of the most important upgrades you can make is choosing double-pane skylights. Unlike single-pane models, double-pane skylights consist of two layers of glass or acrylic with an airspace in between. Here’s why this is particularly important for Tucson homeowners to install double-pane lenses:

Improved Insulation:

Tucson’s extreme heat can make homes harder to cool, and single-pane skylights can become weak points where heat enters the home. Double-pane skylights provide much better insulation, helping to maintain more consistent indoor temperatures. This can reduce energy costs, as your air conditioning won’t have to work as hard to keep the home cool.

Noise Reduction:

Double-pane skylights offer better sound insulation, which can be particularly helpful during rainstorms, windy conditions, or if you live near a busy road. Although Tucson is known for its dry weather, monsoon season can bring intense thunderstorms. Double-pane skylights reduce noise so that your home remains peaceful even during heavy downpours.

Durability:

The extra layer of glass or acrylic offers more protection against hail, falling branches, or other debris that could cause damage during Arizona’s stormy monsoon season. This added durability can give homeowners peace of mind, knowing their skylight is less likely to crack or shatter.

Which Skylight Color Is Best in Tucson?

When replacing skylights, another decision homeowners face is choosing the lens color. Skylights come in a variety of lens tints, but two of the most common options are soft white and dark brown lenses. Each has distinct advantages depending on your home’s needs and the amount of sunlight it receives.

Soft White Skylight Lenses

Soft white lenses are ideal for homeowners who want to maximize natural light in their home without causing too much glare. They diffuse sunlight evenly, creating a bright and inviting space while reducing the harshness of direct sunlight. This can be especially beneficial in areas like kitchens, living rooms, or hallways, where bright natural light enhances the room’s aesthetic and functionality.

Dark Brown Skylight Lenses

Dark brown lenses are designed to absorb more sunlight, making them a popular choice in northern climates where homeowners want to draw in extra heat during colder months. In Tucson’s hot, sunny climate, however, dark brown lenses can cause a room to be much hotter, as they allow more heat to enter the home. While they do filter some sunlight, dark brown lenses attract more heat than soft white lenses.

Dark brown lenses are typically not recommended for homes in hot climates like Tucson. They can cause higher cooling costs and make rooms uncomfortable during the summer months. If you’re seeking energy efficiency and cooling benefits, soft white lenses or other lighter-colored options are a better choice for reducing heat absorption.

Skylight Repair or Skylight Replacement?

Skylight repair and skylight replacement are not the same, but the terms often get confused. When replacing a skylight, the roofing contractor will completely remove the skylight frame and install a new frame and lenses.  When repairing a skylight, the typical repair work involves replacing the lenses on the existing skylight frame.  It is easy to get these terms confused so we recommend confirming with your roof company the exact scope of work needed.

Skylight Maintenance Tips for Tucson Homeowners

Once your new skylight is installed, regular maintenance is key to ensuring it lasts as long as possible. Here are some quick tips to keep your skylights in top condition:

Clean the Skylight Lenses:

Dust and debris can accumulate on the skylight over time, reducing its clarity and the amount of light that enters your home. Gently clean the skylight with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution every few months to keep it clear. If you fear getting on your roof, call a roofing company or a handyman to help you out.

Check for Leaks:

After a monsoon storm or rain, inspect your skylight for any signs of leaks around the edges. Catching leaks early can prevent water damage and costly repairs.  Leaks can occur when the lenses crack or when water penetrates around the base of the skylight frame.

Inspect the Frame:

Over time, skylight frames can develop cracks or other signs of wear. Make sure to inspect the skylight frame annually and repair or replace it as needed. Especially pay attention to the roof material around the base of the skylight. Inspect it for cracks in the coating or roof material.

Inspect the Skylight Lenses:

Skylight lenses can crack simply from weather changes. Often times you can see the cracks from inside the house. Sometimes the cracks are not easily seen from inside but can be seen from inspecting at the roof level. Ask you roofing contractor to inspect your skylights when they are looking at the roof.

Call Desert Sky Roofing

In the dry, hot Tucson climate, replacing aging skylights—especially acrylic lenses—is essential to maintaining the integrity and comfort of your home. By upgrading to double-pane skylights and selecting the appropriate lens tint for your home’s specific needs, you can enjoy natural light, lower energy bills, and added protection from the elements. Whether you’re upgrading your current skylights or addressing issues like cracks and leaks, Desert Sky Roofing is here to help with professional installation and expert advice for your Arizona home. Give us a call today for a free roof inspection which will include a free skylight inspection.