Skylights are constantly exposed to the elements, such as rain, snow and hail. Unfortunately, this means that skylights do not last forever, as they undergo a great deal of wear and tear while performing their day-to-day duties. At some point in a skylight’s life it will need to be repaired, or even completely replaced, by a professional. 

Repairing vs. Replacing Your Skylight 

If you feel that your skylight is not working properly or is just looking worse for wear, it may be time to consider your options. In cases of extreme damage, it may be necessary to replace your current skylight. A replacement should always be done by a professional due to the amount of knowledge and skill required to do it correctly and safely. The professional will completely remove the old skylight, and then install a brand new one to take its place. 

Replacement is not the only option when it comes to damaged skylights, repair may be possible depending on the extent of the damage. You will need to get in touch with a skylights repair specialist, who will be able to determine whether repairing is an option, or if the entire skylight will have to be replaced. 

Skylight Lifespan

Determining the expected lifespan of your skylight can be difficult, mainly because of the sheer amount of different skylights that are available. The manufacturer, roof condition, climate, and product design will all contribute to exactly how long your skylight’s life expectancy is. On average, you can expect a skylight to last between 20 and 30 years. The vast majority of skylights will need to be replaced within this time frame.

Common Signs of Wear and Tear
There are certain signs of wear and tear that can serve as an indicator of when it is time to look into repairing or replacing a skylight. For example, staining on the ceiling around a skylight is usually caused by water, this indicates that it is no longer water tight. You may also notice discoloration in the glass of the skylight, which means the maximum amount of sunlight is no longer making it into your home or business. It is also important to be aware of any cracks in the glass, as small cracks can turn into larger cracks and eventually shatter completely. Finally, you should take note of any condensation on the glass, which can indicate that the seals are not functioning properly. If you notice any of these signs of wear and tear on your skylight, you should look into getting it repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

Maintaining Older Skylights 

While there is a finite amount of time that a skylight will last, you can maximize the lifespan of your older skylights by practicing proper maintenance. First, you should regularly wash the glass of your skylight. Regular washing will prevent discoloration from occurring and will prevent scratch-causing dirt from building up. Second, you should make sure to keep a fresh coat of paint or wood stain on any wooden components, as this will prevent wood rot from occurring. Finally, it is necessary to remove any leaves and debris from around the skylight at least once a year. If these leaves and debris are allowed to accumulate, water will not be able to flow freely and may cause leaks to develop. By taking these simple precautions, it is easy to keep your skylight in good working condition for as long as possible.