Skylight Installation: A Step-By-Step Guide

Adding a skylight to your home can bring in lots of sunlight, making your rooms feel bright and welcoming. However, if not executed properly, skylight installations can become a problem due to leaks. If you find yourself dealing with a pesky skylight leak, here is an article to help you get started.

This extensive guide will walk you through a meticulously detailed, step-by-step process for skylight installation and repair, ensuring the result is exactly as you desire.

Things You Need for Skylight Installation

Gathering the required tools and materials is essential before you begin installing a skylight. Ensuring you have everything you need on hand will contribute to a smooth installation process and a successful, leak-free result.

Here’s a comprehensive list of tools and materials you will want to have at your disposal:

• Safety Equipment: Prioritize your well-being with gloves, goggles, and a hard hat for protection.
• Measuring Tape and Level: Accurate measurements and a level surface are paramount for a precise installation.
• Cutting Tools: Equip yourself with a circular or reciprocating saw for precise and efficient roof opening creation.
• Flashing Kit: A flashing kit tailored for skylights will aid in channelling water away and preventing leaks.
• Skylight Unit: The centrepiece of your installation – choose the type (fixed, vented, or tubular) that suits your needs.
• Fasteners: Roofing nails and screws are essential for securely anchoring the skylight and flashing in place.
• Roofing Materials: Roofing felt and shingles will play a crucial role in providing an additional layer of protection against the elements.
• Caulk and Sealant: Weather-resistant caulk and sealant will help seal edges and joints, keeping water at bay.
• Metal Snips: These will come in handy for customizing flashing and trimming.
• Ladder or Scaffolding: Ensure safe access to the installation site with a stable ladder or scaffolding.
• Hammer and Nail Gun: These tools are vital for securely fastening various components during installation.
• Pry Bar: A pry bar can be used to remove existing materials, if necessary.
• Roofing Cement: Essential for sealing gaps and ensuring watertightness.

Costs of Getting a Skylight Installation

Understanding the potential costs associated with a skylight installation is critical in planning your project. While the expense can vary based on factors such as skylight type, size, complexity, and location, gaining a general sense of the investment required is invaluable. Initially, investing in skylights in Toronto might seem substantial, but it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits of enhanced natural light and the potential energy savings that a well-installed skylight can offer.

9 Fundamental Steps for Installation

Step 1: Cut the Roof Opening

Begin your skylight installation by selecting the optimal location for your skylight. Once determined, mark the exact dimensions of the opening on your roof. Exercise caution and precision as you skillfully cut through the roof deck using either a circular or reciprocating saw. It’s paramount to ensure the opening corresponds precisely to the dimensions of your chosen skylight unit.

Step 2: Install the Flashing

Flashing is a pivotal element in preventing leaks around your skylight. Initiate the flashing installation process by affixing the bottom flashing to the curb of the skylight. This initial layer acts as a barrier against water intrusion. Utilize roofing cement to securely seal the edges and junctions, bolstering the skylight’s defence against potential leaks.

Step 3: Place the Skylight

With the flashing in place, delicately position the skylight unit onto the designated curb. Exercise patience and precision to ensure a perfect fit within the prepared roof opening. To anchor the skylight securely, utilize roofing screws or nails, driving them through the designated mounting holes.

Step 4: Seal the Edges

An imperative stage of the installation process involves the careful application of roofing cement around the periphery of the skylight. This careful layering of sealant forms a watertight barrier, shielding the skylight against water infiltration during inclement weather conditions.

Step 5: Install Sill Flashing

Effectively channel water away from the skylight by attaching the sill flashing to the sides of the unit. Extend the sill flashing over the roofing material, using roofing nails to ensure a secure connection. This will play a significant role in preventing potential leaks.

Step 6: Install Step Flashing

Enhance the skylight’s water resistance by introducing step flashing along the sides of the unit. When you install step flashing, carefully put the flashing and roofing shingles in a specific order. This layered approach contributes to effective moisture diversion away from the skylight.

Step 7: Counterflashing

Counterflashing serves as a protective shield, covering the step flashing to inhibit water penetration. Skillfully affix the counter flashing using roofing nails, ensuring a secure attachment. Apply roofing cement around the edges to create an impervious seal against water infiltration.

Step 8: Saddle Flashing

To strengthen the skylight’s defences against potential leaks, incorporate saddle flashing at the top of the unit. Overlay the saddle flashing with the existing counterflashing, reinforcing the moisture-resistant barrier. A meticulous installation process ensures a comprehensive safeguard against water intrusion.

Step 9: Double Check from Inside

After completing the skylight installation, descend safely from the roof and proceed indoors. Take a moment to conduct a thorough inspection from the inside, ensuring that all elements align perfectly. If your skylight is designed to open, assess its functionality to confirm the smooth operation. Once satisfied with the installation’s integrity, shift your focus to tidying up the interior ceiling. This guarantees a successful and visually appealing skylight addition.

Final Thoughts

Skylight installation is best left to professionals due to its complexity. DIY attempts often lead to improper sealing, leaks, and structural issues. Professionals possess the expertise to ensure proper fitting, sealing, and integration, minimizing potential problems and maximizing the benefits without compromising your home’s integrity.

Also Read: Things To Consider Before Skylight Installation

We Can Help You with Skylight Repair & Installation

Transform your home with the beauty of natural light through our expert skylight repair and replacement services. Our skilled team in Toronto is committed to delivering flawless results, ensuring your skylights not only enhance the aesthetic of your home but also remain leak-free, even during the harshest weather conditions.

Whether you’re looking to replace an old skylight or install a new one, Integrity Roofers have the expertise and dedication to make your vision a reality. Experience the difference our professional touch can make. Contact us at 416-736-7373 or fill out our online form for a seamless skylight solution that elevates your home’s charm while providing lasting peace of mind. Your dream of a beautifully illuminated home starts here.