Skylights are nice looking and are an excellent source of natural sunlight during the winter months. Sunny days bring in lots of bright sunlight which not only brightens up a dark room it can help chase those winter blues away!. A defective or leaking skylight can negate any benefits by causing headaches and money.There are multiple reasons why skylights leak. From improper installation to debris buildup and damage, leaking skylights allow moisture to seep into your home from rains and storms even condensation build up in the winter.
To prevent skylight leaks, problem areas must be identified and corrected during installation and though regular inspections throughout the year.
Skylight Installation
Skylight installations is a complex process with a large variety of problems that can occur if not installed properly. Although modern skylights have some parts pre-installed (flashing for example), the installation must be done in a precise way taking into account normal specifications and the installation environment. Having an experienced, professional installer (such as Atlanta Roofing Specialists) install your skylight will help ensure you won’t have problems later on.
Maintenance
Regular inspections and maintenance is crucial to having problem free skylights. Keep the skylights free of debris including ice, snow, leaves, sticks and other things that can hamper the drainage around the skylight. If your gutters are full of debris, chances are your skylights and the area around them will need to be cleaned as well. Clear any debris that may build up on the roof as they cause leaks not only through the skylight but through siding, loose shingles, and other areas of the roof.
Ventilation
If you notice condensation on your skylight, you may have an improperly vented room in the house. Condensation from bathrooms or sun rooms can be controlled by using dehumidifiers in these rooms or by having proper ventilation installed. Ensure all rooms, especially those prone to heavy condensation activities such as bathrooms and kitchens are properly ventilated.
If you suspect your may have a leaking skylight and live in the Metro Atlanta area, call Atlanta Roofing Specialists today at 770-419-2222 for free inspection. Better to be safe than sorry.