Skylight Maintenance: Keeping Your Skylights Clean and Functional

Skylights are a beautiful addition to any home, bringing natural light and a sense of openness to even the darkest of spaces. However, like any feature of your home, skylights require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. Proper skylight maintenance ensures they remain leak-free, clean, and energy-efficient for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical skylight maintenance tips to help you preserve their beauty and functionality.

1. Regular Cleaning for Optimal Light

Dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on skylight surfaces over time, reducing the amount of natural light that enters your home. To maintain optimal light transmission, skylights should be cleaned at least twice a year. Here are some simple cleaning tips:

• Exterior Cleaning: Carefully access your roof using appropriate safety equipment. Use a soft brush or sponge, warm water, and mild soap to clean the glass. Avoid abrasive cleaners, which could scratch the surface. Rinse thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
• Interior Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the interior surface of the skylight. Dust and fingerprints can diminish the skylight’s effectiveness, so regular interior cleaning is just as important as exterior cleaning.
• Debris Removal: Ensure that leaves, branches, and other debris are removed from around the skylight to prevent clogs that could impact water drainage.

2. Inspect for Leaks and Seal Integrity

Water leaks are one of the most common issues faced by skylight owners. To prevent leaks, it’s important to regularly inspect the sealant around your skylights and ensure there are no cracks or gaps. Here’s how to check for leaks:

• Visual Inspection: Inspect the perimeter of the skylight from both inside and outside your home. Look for visible signs of damage or wear to the sealant or flashing.
• Test During Rain: The next time it rains, inspect the area around the skylight for any signs of water intrusion. Early detection of leaks can prevent costly water damage to your roof or interior spaces.
• Re-Sealing: If you notice any damage to the sealant, re-sealing the skylight with an appropriate roofing sealant can help maintain a watertight barrier.

3. Inspect Flashing and Roof Integration

Flashing is the material that surrounds the skylight to ensure a watertight seal between the skylight and your roof. Proper integration with the roof is crucial for preventing leaks. Here’s what you need to do:

• Check Flashing: Examine the flashing for any signs of corrosion, gaps, or lifting. Damaged flashing can lead to leaks and should be repaired promptly.
• Professional Inspection: It’s recommended to have a professional roofer inspect the flashing and skylight integration annually, especially if your skylight is more than a few years old.

4. Monitor Condensation Levels

Condensation on skylights can be a sign of poor ventilation or humidity levels in your home. While condensation itself isn’t necessarily a problem, excessive moisture buildup can lead to mould growth and other issues. To keep condensation under control:

• Ventilation: Ensure your home is properly ventilated, particularly in areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Ventilated skylights can help reduce humidity by providing natural airflow.
• Dehumidifiers: In areas with high humidity, using a dehumidifier can help maintain comfortable indoor air quality and prevent condensation buildup on skylights.

5. Check for Cracks or Damage

Cracks or chips in the skylight glass or glazing can compromise the skylight’s structural integrity and energy efficiency. Even small cracks can worsen over time, so regular inspection is key:

• Glass Inspection: Check for visible cracks, chips, or other damage to the skylight glass. Minor cracks can sometimes be repaired, but significant damage may require replacement.
• Consult a Professional: If you notice damage, consult a professional to determine whether repairs are possible or if replacement is necessary. This will help maintain your skylight’s energy efficiency and safety.

6. Seasonal Maintenance Considerations

New Zealand’s changing seasons can impact skylight maintenance needs. Consider these seasonal tips:

• Spring and Summer: During these warmer months, ensure your skylights are clean to allow maximum sunlight. Check for any damage caused by winter conditions, such as broken seals or flashing.
• Autumn and Winter: Falling leaves and increased rainfall can affect skylight performance. Regularly clear leaves and debris from around your skylight to prevent blockages, and inspect the flashing to ensure it remains watertight.

Conclusion

Proper skylight maintenance is essential for keeping your skylights clean, functional, and leak-free. By cleaning regularly, inspecting seals and flashing, monitoring condensation, and addressing damage promptly, you can enjoy the benefits of natural light without any headaches. A little proactive maintenance goes a long way in extending the lifespan of your skylights and maintaining their efficiency. If you’re unsure about any aspect of skylight care, consulting a professional will help ensure your skylights continue to perform beautifully for years to come.