A skylight is an atmospheric addition to any home, largely because it invites so much natural light into your living space. But if you need to invest in a roofing replacement, you’ll also have to consider what to do about your skylight. Some homeowners may choose to remove it entirely. The guide below looks closer at its advantages and disadvantages.

How Do Skylights Affect the Roof?

1. It May Increase Leak Potential

Roof leaks can occur whether there’s a skylight present or not. But a skylight is ultimately a window that requires the contractor to make a hole in the surface before installation. The seams that separate roofing materials from the window are more vulnerable to losing their integrity over time.

Rain can slip between these elements and through the underlayment, eventually leading to significant water damage and possible mold formation inside the home. Have your roofer inspect the flashing frequently to ensure that there are no openings around the skylight.

2. It May Contribute to Energy Loss

Homeowners commonly install new roofing systems because they want to increase their home’s energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint. While the presence of fresh insulation will help prevent heat loss and gain and reduce your dependency on the HVAC system year-round, a skylight takes away slightly from the roof’s ability to do that.

The window doesn’t contain insulation, and even a small gap that forms over time between the roof and skylight can cause air waste throughout the year. That, in turn, could easily drive your energy costs up.

3. It May Require More Repairs

Skylights are visually appealing, but it takes some work to ensure that they remain in great shape. If you plan to keep your skylight or install a replacement with the new roof, make regular inspections a priority, especially in the aftermath of a big storm.

Have your contractor inspect the window and its components for signs of weather damage, including cracks, loose flashing, and other issues that might invite moisture inside your home or cause the skylight to corrode with time. These types of issues could require significant repairs.
 

Are you thinking about replacing your roof? Turn to the team at Guaranteed Roofing in Tulsa, OK. Proudly serving local homeowners for 30 years, these qualified professionals work closely with you every step of the way to ensure that your project goes smoothly. They also offer gutter installation, roof repairs, and siding services. Visit them online for more on their services. Call (918) 451-0119 to schedule an appointment.