A skylight can leak when water enters through loose edges or worn roof materials. This can lead to stains, damp walls, and mold inside the home. Early skylight repair helps prevent the leak from spreading and reduces the risk of costly damage.

More often than not, if you’re learning how to repair a leaking skylight, you should get the help of a professional roofer. While it might seem like a simple fix, you could just be masking or moving the problem to another area of your roof. Fixing these issues professionally and promptly can increase the longevity of the skylight and your roof.

This blog post explains the common causes of a skylight leaking, the early signs you should notice, and how to repair a leaking skylight.

What Causes Skylight Leaking?

Skylights are subjected to strong weather every day. Over time, the materials can weaken, which may lead to a leak.

Here are the most common causes:

• Cracked or dried sealant
• Loose or damaged flashing
• Cracked skylight glass
• Loose screws or hardware
• Leaves or dirt blocking water flow

A professional skylight repair is necessary to avoid serious roof damage.

Signs You Need a Skylight Leak Repair

A small leak can grow quickly, so it is important to notice early signs of a skylight leaking. These clues help you decide when a professional skylight leak repair is needed.

Look for these signs:

• Water drops around the frame
• Stains on the ceiling or wall
• Soft or damp drywall
• Foggy or wet skylight glass
• A musty or moldy smell
• Unusual drafts or temperature changes near the skylight

If you see these symptoms, unfortunately, you have a skylight leaking problem.

How to Repair a Leaking Skylight

The steps below explain how to repair a leaking skylight safely. Remember, it is always better to call a professional for skylight leak repair like Elevated Roofing over doing it yourself.

1. Check the Seal Around the Skylight

Sealant can dry out or crack over time. This is one of the most common causes of skylight leaking. Remove the old sealant, clean the edges, and apply new exterior sealant.

2. Look at the Flashing

Flashing is the metal that guides water away from the skylight. Damaged flashing is a top reason homeowners need skylight repair. Check for gaps, rust, or bent sections that need repair or replacement.

3. Clear Debris Around the Area

Leaves and dirt can block water flow. When water collects, it may enter the skylight frame. Remove all debris so water can drain well. This simple step reduces the chances of future skylight leaking problems.

4. Tighten Screws and Hardware

Loose screws create tiny gaps where water can slip inside. Tighten the hardware and replace any worn screws. If the frame still moves, a professional skylight repair may be required.

5. Check for Cracked Glass

Skylight glass can crack due to weather changes or impact. Even small cracks allow leaks. If you notice cracks, call a professional. Note: This part of skylight leak repair is not safe to do on your own.

6. Test the Skylight After Repairs

Spray water gently over the skylight and watch from inside. If water still enters, the leak may be deeper inside the roof. At this point, professional skylight repair is the best choice.

When to Call a Professional for Skylight Leak Repair

Some skylight issues can be fixed at home, but others need trained help. You can call a professional when you first notice a leak and they will diagnose the problem and repair it for you. But if you attempt to diagnose the problem on your own, you should call a professional when the leak returns after repair, when the flashing is badly damaged, or when the skylight glass is cracked. A professional roofer knows how to repair a leaking skylight safely.

If the roof surface feels soft or unstable, do not attempt repairs on your own. Skilled help prevents injury and protects the home.

How to Prevent Skylight Leaks

Regular checks help lower the chance of leaks. Clean around the skylight often to remove leaves and dirt. Look at the sealant twice a year and replace it when it cracks. Check the flashing before each rainy season, since loose flashing can cause a skylight leaking issue.

You should also watch the shingles near the skylight. Damaged shingles might push water toward the skylight, creating a need for skylight leak repair later.

Worried About a Skylight Leaking? Schedule your Free Skylight Inspection Today!

A leaking skylight can feel stressful, but most problems have clear causes and simple solutions. With early checks and careful steps, you can manage many small issues on your own. For large leaks or unsafe roof conditions, a professional can provide reliable skylight repair and prevent long-term damage. Call Elevated Roofing if you want a professional to fix your skylight.