Most roofing contractors agree that installing a skylight gives you more natural light and ventilation and is a great addition to any house. As with any special feature, skylights also come with their own unique maintenance requirements and challenges. It is always best to be fully aware of all the ins and outs of skylights before getting your local roofers to add one to your home. Here are some of the maintenance requirements to keep your skylight in top shape.
Cleaning Requirements
Fortunately, your skylight will not require much maintenance or cleaning. This is because of their shape and slope that allow the rain to rinse off all dirt and dust, while debris and leaves will just be blown away in the wind. You might occasionally need to clean the inside and outside. It is important to remember that they are made from many different types of materials, so when you clean your skylight you have to use the appropriate cleaning products to do the job. Usually there is no need to use harsh chemicals, as clean water and a mild soap product should be just enough. Wipe and dry the surface with a soft non-abrasive cloth.
Things to keep in mind when cleaning your skylight:
- Laminated and tempered glass is more durable and lasts even longer when cleaned regularly
- Accumulated dirt increases the risk of glass getting scratched
- Bird droppings, fruit, berries, and tree sap can cause stains
- Marks and stains should be removed immediately else they can become harder to remove
- Acrylic and plastic skylights should be cleaned using the supplier recommended solutions
Plastic and acrylic skylights can get stained and scratched quicker than other types so it is important to consider contacting your local roofers to provide professional care for these materials.
Some Professional Maintenance
Besides regular cleaning you will also have to schedule a roofing company to do periodic inspection and any required maintenance to keep your skylight functioning as it should and looking stunning. This could also prevent any future potential damage.
What should be included under your maintenance schedule?
Periodic Inspections
An annual inspection of your skylight is recommended and can easily be combined with your roof inspection. Your roofing contractors must inspect the skylight for any damage, deterioration or other issues that may start to appear. They should also clean it in the correct manner as part of the basic annual maintenance service.
Leaking Skylights
If you find droplets on your floor under your skylight you need to do a quick check for leaks. You should remember that not all droplets come from leaks. Some of them actually form on the inside of your skylight as a result of condensation. The leak can also sometimes be in your roof and not from the skylight.
Here are some basic tips of how to confirm whether it is a leak or not:
- Look for places with a buildup of debris. It is possible for water to gather as its natural flow is blocked by the debris. The water buildup then seeps in under the shingles.
- Look for blocked gutters. Water builds up in the gutters and flows under your roof. Snow and ice can also block gutters and cause water issues, especially when it starts to melt.
- Inspect the skylight for stripping gaps. Seals and stripping can wear out or sometimes the strips were not installed correctly. This can all lead to leaking.
There could also be other issues causing your skylight to leak so let the professionals have a good look for any issues during the roof and skylight inspection. Always use a professional roofing company.
Check for Damages
Your skylight can get damaged and crack as a result of extreme weather conditions like hail. Cracks can cause water to seep through and drip into your home. Minor cracks can easily be repaired and should be tended to quickly before they run and get bigger. Larger cracks will require the glass pane or even the entire unit to be replaced.
Flashing Checks
Your inspection must include a thorough check of the skylight flashing condition. Flashing must be intact and properly installed to prevent leaks and condensation. Damaged, deteriorating or not properly installed flashing has to be replaced.
New skylights do not require much maintenance and following a schedule for routine maintenance will keep them looking good. Remember to check the skylight filter and give it a clean every now and then. Make sure there is no debris build up around the skylight to cause leaking issues. You can have it cleaned during the routine maintenance sessions. Vent the home to eliminate condensation and keep the skylight intact. These simple steps will extend the life of your skylight for you to enjoy for a long time to come.
