If you’ve ever had a leaky skylight, you know just how frustrating it can be. That slow drip, unexpected water stain, or moldy ceiling patch is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a sign that something above your head isn’t working the way it should.
At nSkylights, we’ve seen firsthand how skylight leaks can damage not only roofs but also interior walls, ceilings, and insulation. But here’s the good news: many of these issues are entirely preventable. That’s right—leaks don’t have to be part of the skylight experience.
In fact, a skilled skylight repair specialist can often stop leaks before they even begin.
Whether you already have skylights installed or you're thinking of adding them to your home or commercial space, understanding how professionals keep them watertight can help you avoid major headaches down the line. Let’s dive into how the pros make skylights leak-resistant from day one—and what they do to keep them that way.
First Things First: Why Do Skylights Leak?
Before we get into prevention, it helps to understand the usual suspects behind skylight leaks. Contrary to popular belief, skylights themselves don’t always "fail." It’s typically the surrounding materials and installation details that are the problem.
Here are the most common causes of skylight leaks:
Poor installation or incorrect flashing
Worn-out seals or gaskets
Cracks in the glass or lens
Clogged drainage systems
Roofing issues around the skylight
Most of these problems stem from improper handling during the initial installation or neglect during regular maintenance. That’s where hiring a skylight repair specialist can really make a difference.
Step 1: Proper Installation is the Foundation
The best way to prevent leaks is to install the skylight correctly in the first place. It sounds simple, but many of the leak repairs we do at nSkylights could’ve been avoided with a little more attention to detail early on.
A certified skylight repair specialist ensures:
Correct slope: Skylights need to be installed at the right pitch (at least 15 degrees) to prevent pooling water.
Flashing kit compatibility: Flashing is what seals the edges of the skylight to the roof. Using the wrong flashing—or installing it incorrectly—is one of the most common mistakes.
Proper underlayment: A moisture barrier underneath the shingles and flashing acts as a backup if any water gets through.
Sealing and caulking: Not all sealants are created equal. Professionals use UV- and weather-resistant materials designed for skylight applications.
In other words, professionals don’t cut corners. They follow manufacturer guidelines, know local building codes, and understand how your roofing type (shingle, tile, metal, flat) interacts with the skylight.
Step 2: Routine Inspections That Catch Issues Early
Even the best-installed skylights need occasional checkups. Time, weather, and seasonal shifts can cause materials to expand, contract, and wear down. A professional skylight repair specialist performs routine inspections that go far beyond a quick glance from the attic.
Here’s what they look for:
Cracked or aging seals
Corroded metal flashing
Glass delamination or fog between panes
Shingle lift or shifting around the skylight
Signs of interior moisture or mold
Catching these issues early can prevent expensive interior damage later. Think of it like a health checkup for your skylight—it doesn’t mean something is wrong, but it helps ensure things don’t go wrong.
At nSkylights, we recommend professional skylight inspections at least once a year, especially before or after harsh weather seasons.
Step 3: Regular Cleaning and Drainage Maintenance
You might not think of cleaning as part of leak prevention, but it’s actually crucial—especially for skylights with built-in weep holes or drainage channels. Leaves, dirt, and even bird nests can clog these areas and cause water to back up, leading to leaks inside your home.
Professional skylight repair specialists don’t just repair—they also maintain. They’ll:
Clean glass and frames
Remove debris from flashing and gutters
Ensure proper water flow around the skylight
Clear any obstructions in drain channels
Keeping water flowing away from the skylight is key to preventing long-term moisture issues. And because specialists are trained to spot trouble spots during cleaning, they can often identify potential problems before they become real ones.
Step 4: Upgrading Old Skylights Before They Fail
Sometimes, the best way to prevent a leak is to retire an old skylight before it becomes a problem. Skylights typically last 15–25 years, depending on materials and exposure. If yours is approaching (or past) that age, it might be time to consider a replacement.
A skylight repair specialist will assess whether your skylight:
Still has a tight seal and clear glazing
Matches current roof performance
Has compatible flashing with today’s materials
Shows signs of sagging, cracking, or interior moisture
If not, a proactive upgrade can save you thousands in future water damage. Modern skylights also offer better energy efficiency, UV protection, and storm resistance—so the benefits go far beyond just staying dry.
Step 5: Educating Property Owners (Yes, That’s Part of the Job!)
One of the most overlooked aspects of leak prevention is education. At nSkylights, we believe a well-informed homeowner or building manager is the best defense against skylight problems.
A skylight repair specialist takes time to:
Explain proper care techniques
Show you where potential risks are
Teach you how to spot early warning signs
Recommend maintenance timelines
Suggest upgrades when appropriate
That way, you're not just reacting to leaks after they happen—you’re staying one step ahead.
Why Not Just Call a Roofer or Handyman?
This is a question we get a lot. While general contractors or roofers can certainly install or patch around skylights, they often don’t have specialized training in the specific systems and details that make skylights unique.
A skylight repair specialist understands:
The unique behavior of sloped glazing
Manufacturer installation specifications
Custom flashing systems
Ventilation, UV protection, and condensation control
Integration with all roofing types
In short, they know how to make your skylight perform exactly as it should—for the long haul. They’re not just looking to fix a problem; they’re trained to prevent one from ever starting.
When to Call a Skylight Repair Specialist?
Here are a few situations where it makes sense to call a specialist—even if you’re not yet seeing leaks:
You’ve noticed condensation or fog between the panes
There’s visible staining or mold near the skylight
You had a new roof installed and the skylight wasn’t replaced
Your skylight is more than 15 years old
You're seeing drafts or inconsistent indoor temperatures
You want peace of mind before the rainy season hits
A quick inspection from a specialist can save you from much bigger problems later on. And if something is wrong, they’ll give you honest guidance on whether a simple repair or full replacement is the best route.
Final Thoughts:
Leaks don’t usually happen overnight. They develop slowly—often silently—over months or even years. But with the help of a skilled skylight repair specialist, you can stop water damage before it ever starts.
At nSkylights, we’re all about helping homeowners and businesses enjoy the benefits of skylights without the headaches. From detailed inspections and proactive maintenance to expert installations and upgrades, we’re here to make sure your skylights stay clear, dry, and trouble-free.
So the next time you look up and admire that beautiful burst of natural light, you’ll know it’s not just good luck—it’s smart planning.
Get In Touch:
- Name: nSkylights
- Address: 1400 E. Higgins Road Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
- Phone No: (847) 439-7049