Skylight Repair in Virginia

What this service includes

• Leak diagnosis at the unit vs the flashing
• Flashing kit replacement
• Seal and gasket renewal
• Full unit replacement
• Curb repair

Warning signs

• Water staining around the skylight shaft
• Condensation between glazing panes
• Cracked or fogged glazing
• Damaged or corroded flashing

Common causes

• Age of seals and gaskets
• Improperly installed step and head flashing
• Debris damming above the unit
• Impact damage

Systems and materials involved

• Deck-mounted
• Curb-mounted
• Tubular daylighting devices

Repair or replace?

If the roof is being replaced and the skylight is more than about halfway through its service life, replacing both at once avoids paying twice for flashing labour.

How the work is carried out

1. Diagnosis
2. Unit or flashing selection
3. Removal and curb inspection
4. Installation with a manufacturer flashing kit
5. Interior finish

What affects the cost

• Unit size and type
• Whether the curb needs rebuilding
• Interior finish repair
• Access and roof pitch

Virginia-specific considerations

Condensation on skylights is common during Virginia winters and is often mistaken for a leak. A good diagnosis distinguishes the two.

Questions to ask contractors

• Is the leak coming from the unit or the flashing?
• Will you use the manufacturer's flashing kit?
• Does the interior shaft need repair as well?
• Are you licensed in Virginia, and what is your license number?
• Can you provide a current certificate of general liability and workers' compensation insurance?
• Who pulls the permit, and which jurisdiction issues it?
• What is included in the written scope - underlayment, flashing, ventilation, decking allowance and disposal?
• What warranty covers workmanship, and what covers materials?
• Who will be on site each day, and is the crew employed by you or subcontracted?