How to Patch a Leaking Skylight
A leaky skylight may not be as obvious as a torrent of water rushing down from the ceiling. A crack in the glass or around the screws could begin as condensation on the glass. Over time, however, it can cause drywall damage and unsightly stains. On top of that, any areas that stay damp can cause heath concerns due to mold. Patching your leaky skylight is important to the overall health of your roof and those beneath it. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Inspect the skylight. Use a ladder to inspect the skylight from below. Look for damp or stained drywall. Climb into the attic to inspect the roof around the skylight. Look for damp wood or wet insulation. Climb onto the roof. Remove any leaves or debris from the skylight. Inspect the skylight cover for cracks or damage. Look at the weather striping for damage. Inspect the flashing for torn seams or pinholes. Look for lifted shingles. Often you can pinpoint the problem here.
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Buy the materials you need ahead of time. If the skylight cover is cracked or damaged check on the availability and price of a replacement. You can find these at a home improvement store or a manufacturer website.
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Remove the skylight cover screws. Carefully lift the cover off the skylight curb. Start in one corner and work your way around. Scrape away the weather proofing seal with a knife, sharp chisel, or scraper. scrape both the curb and skylight cover.
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Seal any cracks on the skylight cover. Use clear silicone for this. On the inside run a bead of silicone the entire length of the crack. Use a finger to spread the silicone around.
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Install new weather stripping on the curb. Place the seam on the downhill side. Use a trowel to spread roofing tar around the curb. Cover the outside walls, paying special attention to the corners and any pinholes. Lift any loose shingles and apply roofing tar under the shingle. Spread the roofing tar out 8 inches from the curb all the way around on top of the shingles.
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Apply a bead of silicone next to the weather stripping. This bead needs to be between the stripping and the outside of the curb. Set the Skylight cover in place. Dab silicone into the screw holes. Reinstall the screws. Do not over tighten. With the clear silicone run a bead across any cracks on the lid. Use your finger to smear the caulking over the crack. Cover the skylight screws with silicone.
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Double check the roof for any loose or lifted shingles. Repair any roof damage.
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Tips & Warnings
Be careful while on the roof.
