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My Skylight is Leaking: What Should I Do? Expert Tips from Moore Skylights Inc.

5 min read

A skylight is a fantastic addition to your home, letting in natural light, creating a sense of openness, and reducing your energy bills. However, like any other home feature, skylights can sometimes develop problems, and one of the most common issues is leaking. Whether it’s a small drip or a large leak, a skylight that leaks can cause serious damage to your home’s structure and interiors. But don’t worry—Moore Skylights Inc. is here to help! In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to take when your skylight is leaking, what causes it, and how to fix it before it becomes a more costly problem.





Understanding the Problem: Why is My Skylight Leaking?


Before diving into repairs, it’s important to understand the potential causes of a leaking skylight. Most leaks occur due to specific problems that can often be fixed with minimal hassle.


1. Damaged Flashing

One of the most common causes of a skylight leak is damaged flashing. Flashing is the material installed around your skylight that seals the connection between the window and the roof. Over time, flashing can corrode, rust, or even detach, allowing water to seep into your home. Flashing needs to be properly installed to ensure water doesn’t find its way into your roof.


2. Deteriorating Seals

The seals around your skylight keep out rain and moisture. As time passes, these seals can wear down, crack, or peel off. This leads to gaps where water can easily infiltrate your home. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of the seals can prevent this issue.


3. Clogged Drainage

Skylights often have built-in drainage systems to channel water away from the window. If these drains become clogged with debris such as leaves or dirt, water may back up and leak into your home. Regularly cleaning your skylight’s drainage system can help prevent this problem.


4. Roof Damage

In some cases, a skylight leak may not be due to the skylight itself but because of roof damage. If your roof shingles are cracked or there is damage to the underlying roofing materials, water can seep in and affect the skylight. Proper roof maintenance is essential for preventing leaks from skylights.


5. Condensation Buildup

While not technically a “leak,” condensation inside the skylight can appear as water pooling or dripping. This is usually caused by high humidity levels in your home, especially in areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Installing proper ventilation can reduce condensation buildup.



If you’ve noticed a leak, don’t panic! Follow these steps to mitigate the damage and address the problem.


Step 1: Assess the Situation

When you notice your skylight leaking, it’s crucial to assess the situation quickly. Start by checking the area around the skylight for visible signs of damage. If the water is pooling or dripping near electrical fixtures, immediately turn off the power to avoid any potential safety hazards.


  • Check for visible cracks in the skylight or around the flashing.

  • Inspect the roof around the skylight to ensure there’s no visible damage.

  • Look for signs of water stains or mold on the ceiling below the skylight.


Step 2: Contain the Water

Use a bucket or container to catch the water and prevent further damage. If the leak is severe, you can also use towels to soak up excess water. Try to limit the amount of moisture spreading to other areas of your home.


Step 3: Temporary Fixes

While a professional repair might be needed, there are some temporary solutions to reduce the leak in the meantime.

  • Seal the leak temporarily with silicone or roofing sealant. Ensure the area is dry before applying the sealant. This can give you some time before you get the necessary repairs.

  • Use a tarp to cover the skylight if it’s a major leak, especially during heavy rain.


Step 4: Inspect the Flashing and Seals

Damaged flashing or seals can be a primary cause of skylight leaks. If you can safely access your skylight, inspect the flashing around the edges. If the flashing is cracked or loose, it may need to be replaced. Similarly, check the seals around the skylight for deterioration and reapply new sealant as needed.


Step 5: Clean the Drainage System

If your skylight has a drainage system, ensure it is not clogged with debris. Clean out any leaves, dirt, or twigs that may have collected around the skylight. This simple task can prevent water buildup and reduce the risk of future leaks.


Step 6: Call the Experts at Moore Skylights Inc.

While DIY repairs can help in some cases, for more severe leaks or if you're unsure about the cause, it’s best to contact a professional skylight repair service. At Moore Skylights Inc., we specialize in fixing skylight leaks, replacing damaged seals, and offering comprehensive maintenance services to ensure your skylight continues to function properly. Our experts can diagnose the issue and recommend the best solution.


Preventing Skylight Leaks in the Future


Now that you’ve dealt with the immediate issue, you may be wondering how to prevent leaks from happening again. Here are a few tips:


1. Regular Inspections

To keep your skylight in top condition, schedule regular inspections. A professional skylight technician can check for signs of wear and tear, ensuring any issues are addressed before they lead to leaks.


2. Maintain Your Roof

Since a damaged roof can contribute to a skylight leak, regular roof maintenance is key. Make sure your roof shingles and flashing are intact, and check for any potential issues that could affect your skylight.


3. Improve Ventilation

To prevent condensation buildup, ensure your home has adequate ventilation, especially in areas like kitchens and bathrooms where humidity is higher. Consider installing ventilation fans or using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air.


4. Clean Your Skylight Regularly

Keep your skylight clean to prevent debris from building up around the edges. Clean the glass, drainage system, and flashing to ensure that your skylight continues to function optimally.


Final Thoughts: Don't Let a Leaking Skylight Ruin Your Home


A leaking skylight doesn’t have to be a major hassle. By identifying the cause, taking immediate action, and consulting with professionals when needed, you can prevent further damage and keep your skylight working properly for years to come. Moore Skylights Inc. is always here to help with expert skylight repair services, whether it’s fixing leaks, replacing seals, or installing a new skylight entirely.

If you’ve discovered a skylight leak in your home, don’t wait for the problem to get worse—contact Moore Skylights Inc. for a consultation today! We’re here to make sure your skylight stays leak-free and continues to brighten your home.




647-618-0242



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