Hugo D. Skylights are a fantastic way to fill a space with natural light all day. As the sun shines, they can reduce electricity costs and add warmth to any room with one. Even with all the advantages a skylight provides, it’s important to remember that it is not a house fixture impervious to damage. The skylight presents some challenges that regular windows might not when it comes to repair or replacement because of its precarious location on the roof. Get in touch with a skylight repair services San Antonio, TX, if you notice any of the following signs of skylight damage.
Discoloration
When a skylight is discolored, it’s not a good sign. This discoloration can be yellow or murky and blocks light from entering the home. The discoloration also indicates that the skylight may need to be replaced. New skylights are often coated with UV protective coatings to prevent discoloration. These new skylights will also provide a better balance of heat and daylight, resulting in better energy efficiency.
Water damage near the glass pane is another sign that a skylight needs repair. It could cause a damp ceiling and discoloration and lead to drywall and mold growth in the space. If you notice leakage near your skylight, contact a roofer as soon as possible. Often, leaks result from improper installation, damaged roof cement, or other issues.
Weep Holes in the Frame
A skylight can develop leaks when its weep holes are obstructed. It can cause condensation and fall inside the home. A professional can advise you on the best solution for this problem. A well-made skylight has to weep holes along the frame and glass perimeter to allow water to escape during condensation.
A skylight repair professional can fix this problem by replacing the skylight’s frame. In most cases, a skylight’s frame is not the culprit of leaks. However, various components could be responsible for a skylight’s leak.
Leaks in the Insulating Glass Unit
There are a few ways to tell if your skylight is leaking. It may have condensation on the inside, or it may have been damaged by rain. No matter the cause, water is a serious problem because it can affect the roof’s integrity. Over time, the water can damage the seal on the insulating glass and the flashing around the skylight.
Another cause for leakage around skylights is improperly installed flashing. Depending on the cause of the leak, you may need to move or replace the flashing. Sometimes, you may also need to make structural changes to the roof.
Damage to Ceiling or Drywall
After a skylight repair, it’s important to assess any underlying damage. Water coming through a skylight can saturate drywall and ceilings, leading to damage. If the damage isn’t remedied, mold can develop. Mold spores are released into the air and can cause allergic reactions and other health problems.
Once you’ve assessed the extent of the water damage, the next step is to determine whether the drywall or ceiling needs replacing. Water-damaged sheetrock is prone to mold and collapse, and even a small amount of water can be detrimental to the material. Therefore, getting your ceiling repaired as soon as possible is imperative.
A professional drywall contractor will first cut out the damaged section of drywall and attach extra framing supports. Then, they will install a new piece of drywall. It is really convenient to get professional drywall installation in Greater Charleston, or in most other places nowadays. After the drywall is dry, the contractor will fill in the holes with drywall compound. Then, before applying primer, they will sand the surface to make it smooth.
Cost to Repair a Skylight
The cost to repair a skylight varies and can range anywhere from $50 for minor repairs to $600 for more extensive work, such as replacing the entire skylight frame. The project’s cost will depend on the type of repair needed and how much time the contractor will need to complete it. Some repairs require more time than others and may require more expensive materials.
A skylight’s glass may need to be replaced if it is cracked or warped. This process is simpler than removing the skylight entirely. The cost of repairing a skylight also depends on the type and quality of the skylight glass used. A lower-quality glass will require more maintenance and is more susceptible to leaks and damage. However, skylights made of high-quality materials will last for decades.
