What Causes Skylight Leaks

What Actually Causes A Skylight To Leak?

A leaking skylight gets blamed on the skylight unit far more often than it deserves. The actual point of failure in the overwhelming majority of skylight leaks is the flashing around the opening, not the glass or frame itself. Step flashing that wasn't properly layered, underlayment that doesn't extend far enough, or sealant that's degraded under UV exposure all create entry points for water that has nothing to do with the skylight's own construction.

Ark diagnoses the actual source of a skylight leak before recommending any repair, because patching the wrong component doesn't fix the problem.

The VELUX Certified Installer training includes diagnosing flashing failures specific to VELUX systems, which is often where a non-certified installer's repair attempt falls short, patching the symptom without correctly addressing VELUX's specific flashing requirements.

The Repair Process

How Ark Diagnoses And Repairs Skylight Leaks

Inspection

Ark inspects the skylight, surrounding flashing, and roofing material above and around the unit to identify the actual water entry point.

Diagnosis

Most leaks trace to flashing failure, sealant degradation, or improper original installation. Less commonly, the issue is the skylight unit itself.

Repair

Depending on the diagnosis, repair may involve re-flashing, resealing, or in cases of unit failure, replacement of the skylight itself.

Verification

Ark verifies the repair holds before considering the job complete.

Central Texas

Why Skylight Leaks Are Common In Central Texas

The combination of intense UV exposure, hail impact, and dramatic seasonal temperature swings accelerates flashing and sealant failure around skylight openings faster than in milder climates. A skylight that was installed correctly five years ago in a different climate might still be holding up fine. In Central Texas, the same installation quality issue tends to surface sooner.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Skylight Leak Repair

Why is my skylight leaking only during heavy rain or wind?

Wind-driven rain can expose flashing weaknesses that don't show up during light, vertical rainfall. If your leak only appears during storms with significant wind, the issue is very likely related to flashing rather than the skylight unit itself.

Can a skylight leak be repaired without replacing the whole skylight?

In most cases, yes. If the diagnosis shows the issue is flashing or sealant failure rather than damage to the skylight unit itself, a re-flash and reseal resolves the leak without needing to replace the entire unit.

How much does skylight leak repair cost?

Cost depends on the diagnosis. Re-flashing and resealing typically cost less than full skylight replacement. The most accurate way to understand your specific cost is an inspection to diagnose the actual cause.

Does homeowners insurance cover skylight leak repair in Texas?

Coverage depends on the cause of the leak. Damage caused by a sudden storm event such as hail or wind is generally covered under standard policies. Leaks resulting from improper original installation or gradual sealant wear are typically not covered as they're not considered sudden or accidental.

How quickly should I get a leaking skylight repaired?

As soon as possible. Active water intrusion can damage ceiling drywall, insulation, and framing the longer it goes unaddressed. If you have an active leak, call Ark directly rather than waiting for a scheduled consultation.

Does it matter if my original skylight wasn't installed by a certified installer?

Yes, in terms of diagnosis. A skylight installed without proper VELUX-specific flashing technique is more likely to develop the kind of leaks this page addresses. Ark's certification means we can identify exactly where a prior installation deviated from VELUX's requirements and correct it properly, rather than guessing at the cause.

Social Proof

What Your Neighbors Are Saying

Ark not only replaced my roof, they totally redone my home's exterior. The best-looking work I have ever had done. Nice to have a local Georgetown business right up the road.

Jack H.

Georgetown, Texas

The company president is personally committed to excellence from start to finish. He conducted a detailed survey, including an inspection from inside the attic and a drone overview. One of the best experiences we have ever had with a contractor.

Earl D.

Luke and his team were very professional and good at communicating throughout the whole process. They took care of everything and made the work pretty painless. Don't hesitate to give them a chance.

Amber H.

Skylight Leak And Flashing Repair In Central Texas

Skylight Leaking? Call Ark Now.