Skylight Repair in the USA
Skylight leaks start when sealant around the curb cracks or flashing lifts. Water follows the decking downslope and drips from rafters several feet away from the unit. Our technicians begin at the ceiling stain and work upward to locate the exact entry point.
Common causes include failed step flashing, deteriorated boot material, or curb settlement that opens joints. We measure the curb height, check frame attachment screws, and inspect the surrounding shingles for uplift before any repair begins. Top Notch Matthews Roofing crews follow moisture trails from ceiling marks back to seams needing skylight repair in the USA.
Warning Signs of Skylight Leaks
- Ceiling stains appear directly below the skylight frame after storms.
- Water drips from rafter edges several feet from the skylight location.
- Mold forms along ceiling joists near the skylight opening.
- Daylight shows through gaps at the curb corners during inspection.
- Shingle granules collect in the gutter after heavy wind-driven rain.
Inspection Steps Our Technicians Follow
We start inside the attic and mark every water trail along the rafters back to the skylight curb. Each seam, fastener, and flashing piece receives close inspection for separation or corrosion.
Outside we remove surrounding shingles to expose the step flashing and measure curb height against manufacturer standards. We check for proper overlap of the apron flashing at the bottom and counter flashing at the top.
Repair and Replacement Options
Minor sealant failure receives new butyl tape and compatible caulk applied to clean surfaces. Damaged step flashing gets replaced piece by piece while preserving the original shingle courses.
When the frame shows rot or the curb has settled, we install a new skylight with updated flashing kits. The new unit sits on a raised curb that meets current slope requirements for the roof pitch.
Materials and Parts Used
Repairs use preformed step flashing cut to match shingle exposure, self-adhered underlayment strips at the curb, and high-temperature sealant rated for metal-to-shingle contact.
Replacement skylights include insulated glass units, aluminum or vinyl frames, and factory flashing kits sized to the opening. We secure everything with corrosion-resistant screws placed at manufacturer spacing.
First Steps for the Homeowner
Place a bucket under active drips and move stored items away from the affected rafters. Avoid walking on the roof or attempting to reseal from above.
Note the date and weather conditions when stains first appear. This information helps our technicians correlate interior marks with specific entry points during the visit.
Skylight Repair questions
How do you find the leak source?
We mark ceiling stains then follow water trails along rafters and decking until we reach the skylight curb. Exterior inspection of flashing and seals confirms the entry point.
Can the skylight be repaired without full replacement?
Yes when only the sealant or flashing has failed. We replace individual flashing pieces and reseal the curb without disturbing the glass unit.
What parts are replaced during a typical repair?
Step flashing, apron flashing, and deteriorated sealant around the curb get replaced. New butyl tape and screws secure the rebuilt assembly.
Should I climb onto the roof to check the skylight?
No. Interior inspection from the attic and professional exterior access prevent further damage to shingles or the skylight frame.
Schedule Skylight Repair
Contact Top Notch Matthews Roofing to inspect skylight leaks and restore the roof assembly.