Roof leaks around skylights and what to do about them

There are many issues property owners can face when maintaining their roofing, from loose tiles to bird nests on your roof. Skylights are a beneficial feature for many homes, letting in lots of natural light and views, but additional features also provide extra areas to try and maintain.

Got roof leaks around your skylights? Here’s what to do about it.

Identify the cause of your roof leak

If you think your roof leak is coming from your skylight rather than other spots such as chimneys or guttering, there could be several reasons for it. This includes problems with flashing around the window edges.

Any areas of your roof where two sides meet will be vulnerable to water ingress without a suitable sealant and protection in place. This is often easier to notice when ventilated skylights have opening and closing issues rather than fixed skylights which can develop hidden problems.

While flashing works fantastically, if it becomes damaged through wear and tear or harsh weather conditions, you may notice leaks coming in around your skylight. In these cases, an expert roofer can fix or replace the flashing to ensure it’s as good as new.

Ask a roofing contractor to inspect your roof

While you may be confident your skylight is the culprit of your roof leak, always ask a qualified roofer to perform an inspection to confirm. They will be able to tell you why your skylight is no longer waterproof and recommend the best repairs to ensure your roof remains as weathertight as possible.

Your roofer can also tell you whether the problem will happen again if the skylight isn’t correctly installed. This provides you with the necessary evidence if you need to contact your housebuilder or skylight company for a replacement.

During an inspection, your roofer may spot other issues you weren’t aware of, like moss growth, cracked slates and loose guttering. It’s important to catch any concerns early, preventing costly repairs.

Arrange skylight repairs

Luckily, skylight leaks can usually be fixed with some simple roof repairs, such as replacing the flashing.

However, there could also be other reasons for the leaks, such as vented skylights that aren’t shutting properly (e.g., debris is caught in the hinges), a damaged rubber gasket (allowing water to pass through the seal), or there are small cracks on the pane.

An expert roofer can explain the repairs required or whether a new skylight is needed. Usually, this type of product is under guarantee within a specific timeframe.

Found a roof leak? Contact South Thames Roofing

Have you found a roof leak? Call the team at South Thames Roofing. We offer skylight and roofing inspections across the area, coming out to homes and businesses in South London and Surrey. So, whether you need a roof inspection in Ashtead or roof repairs in Balham, get in touch now for expert advice.

To arrange a roofing quote, call now on 0208 397 2900 or email [email protected].