Commercial Skylight Repair: Stop Leaks for Good
Skylights are one of the most overlooked parts of a commercial roofing system — until they start leaking. While they bring natural light and energy efficiency benefits, poorly maintained or aging skylights can quickly turn into one of the main sources of roof leaks. Therefore, understanding why they fail and how to prevent it can save your building from costly interior damage and energy loss.
Common Causes of Skylight Leaks
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Aging Seals and Gaskets
Over time, the sealants and gaskets that keep moisture out can dry, crack, or separate from the frame. As a result, this creates pathways for water intrusion, especially during heavy rain or temperature swings. -
Improper Installation
Many leaks stem from skylights that weren’t installed to manufacturer specifications. In fact, even minor flashing errors or incorrect slope alignment can cause pooling and infiltration. -
Roof Movement and Expansion
Commercial roofs naturally expand and contract with temperature changes. Consequently, if the skylight framing or flashing doesn’t accommodate that movement, it can pull away from the roof system and open small gaps. -
Failed Coatings or Sealants Around the Unit
Older coatings or quick patch jobs may offer short-term relief but don’t provide a long-term waterproofing solution. Once these temporary fixes fail, water often seeps into insulation and decking below.
How to Identify Early Signs of Skylight Problems
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Visible cracks in the skylight dome or lens
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Discoloration, rust, or corrosion around the frame
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Interior water stains or damp insulation beneath the unit
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Fogging or condensation between panes
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Noticeable drafts or heat gain/loss near the skylight
Therefore, catching these signs early can prevent widespread roof and interior damage.
The Professional Approach to Skylight Repair and Replacement
A proper skylight restoration or replacement begins with a full roof inspection to evaluate the surrounding system, following industry standards outlined by the NRCA. Additionally, our team removes deteriorated sealants, re-flashes the perimeter, and ensures the skylight integrates seamlessly with the roof’s waterproofing membrane.
When replacement is needed, we install commercial-grade skylights designed for long-term performance, energy efficiency, and weather resistance. In particular, proper slope, sealing, and integration with coatings or single-ply membranes are key to a watertight finish that lasts.
Why Skylight Maintenance Should Be Part of Every Roof Program
Including skylight inspections in your routine roof maintenance plan helps prevent leaks before they start. Furthermore, regular cleaning, sealant checks, and professional inspections every 6–12 months can extend the lifespan of both your skylights and the entire roofing system. Meanwhile, all routine inspections should follow safe practices as recommended in OSHA’s roof safety guidelines to protect both your building and maintenance team.
Protect Your Building and Bring Back the Light
If your facility has older or leaking skylights, don’t wait until water damage becomes visible. Instead, a professional assessment can determine whether a repair or full replacement is the right solution. As a result, you can maintain energy efficiency, prevent interior damage, and restore natural light to your building.
Learn more about our commercial roofing services and see how Glick Roofing Systems restores skylights the right way — visit our website.
