Skylights are a fantastic addition to a home, offering natural light and a connection to the outdoors. However, like any part of a house, skylights have a lifespan. Over time, even the best-installed skylights can show signs of aging, leading to potential issues such as leaks, energy inefficiency, and general wear and tear. If your skylight is old, it’s important to understand the challenges it may pose and how to address them to maintain your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.
Signs That Your Skylight is Getting Old
Increased Leaks
One of the most common signs of an aging skylight is water leakage. As skylights age, the seals around them begin to degrade, allowing water to seep through. Even small leaks can lead to significant water damage over time, potentially causing rot or mold growth in your ceiling or attic.Condensation Buildup
Old skylights, especially those made of acrylic or polycarbonate, may develop condensation inside the glazing. This occurs when the seal around the skylight fails, allowing moisture to accumulate between the layers of the skylight, leaving you with foggy or cloudy glass that obstructs your view and reduces light transmission.Cracked or Brittle Glazing
Over time, the material that makes up the skylight (whether glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate) can weaken due to UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and physical stress. Cracks or brittleness may appear, reducing the skylight's ability to provide a weatherproof seal.Drafts or Energy Inefficiency
An aging skylight may not provide the same level of insulation as it once did. If you notice drafts around the skylight, or your heating and cooling bills have increased, it’s possible that the skylight is no longer effectively insulating your home, allowing heat to escape or cold air to enter.Discoloration or Cloudy Glazing
Over time, UV rays can cause acrylic or polycarbonate glazing to discolor, becoming yellowed or cloudy. This affects both the appearance of your skylight and the amount of natural light it lets in. Glass skylights may also experience fading or deterioration of coatings that can reduce their performance.Loose or Poorly Secured Skylight
As skylights age, their fasteners or flashing may begin to loosen, making them less secure. A skylight that’s not properly sealed can lead to water penetration or even damage from high winds.
How to Address an Old Skylight
If your skylight is old and showing signs of wear, there are a few different options to consider. Depending on the extent of the damage or wear, you may be able to repair or upgrade your skylight, or you may need to replace it entirely.
1. Seal or Reseal the Skylight
For minor issues, such as leaks or drafts, resealing your skylight may be a cost-effective option. Over time, the sealant around a skylight can degrade or crack, allowing air and water to enter. Reapplying a high-quality silicone or polyurethane sealant around the edges of the skylight can help restore its weatherproof barrier.
2. Replace the Glazing
If your skylight’s glazing is cracked, cloudy, or damaged, replacing the glazing may be necessary. Skylight glazing is available in several materials, including glass, acrylic, and polycarbonate. Depending on your needs, you might want to upgrade to more energy-efficient or impact-resistant glazing. For instance, laminated glass or double-glazed units provide better insulation and protection against the elements.
3. Install a Skylight Cover
If the glazing is still intact but shows signs of UV damage or discoloration, a temporary solution could be to install a skylight cover. This can protect the existing glazing from further UV exposure while also reducing glare and heat loss. Skylight covers come in a variety of materials, including UV-resistant films and thermal blankets.
4. Upgrade the Skylight to a Newer Model
In some cases, the most efficient solution is to replace your old skylight with a newer, more advanced model. New skylights come with updated features like energy-efficient glazing, better insulation, and improved sealing technology. If your skylight is old and energy inefficient, upgrading to a modern, double-glazed skylight with low-emissivity coatings can help improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your heating and cooling bills.
5. Check and Replace Flashing and Seals
Aging skylights often suffer from damaged or improperly installed flashing and seals. Flashing directs water away from the skylight, while seals prevent water and air from entering. Replacing damaged flashing and seals can prevent leaks and improve the skylight’s overall performance.
6. Regular Maintenance and Inspection
If replacing the skylight isn’t immediately necessary, regular maintenance and inspections can extend the life of an old skylight. Cleaning the glazing regularly and ensuring the flashing is free of debris can help prevent damage and deterioration. It’s also important to inspect the skylight for any cracks, gaps, or deterioration of the seals to address issues before they become more significant.
When to Replace an Old Skylight
While repairing or maintaining an aging skylight can prolong its lifespan, there are certain signs that indicate it’s time for a full replacement. Consider replacing your skylight if:
Frequent Leaks: If you’ve patched leaks multiple times and they keep returning, it may be time for a replacement.
Energy Efficiency Loss: If your skylight has become a significant source of heat loss or gain, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a modern, energy-efficient model.
Extensive Damage: If the glazing is severely cracked, the frame is rusted or corroded, or the skylight is beyond repair, it’s best to replace it entirely.
Poor Performance: If your skylight is no longer providing the desired light, ventilation, or insulation, replacement is often the most practical solution.
Benefits of Replacing an Old Skylight
Improved Energy Efficiency: Modern skylights are designed with energy-saving features, such as double-glazing and low-emissivity coatings, which can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs.
Enhanced Durability: Newer skylights are built with more durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and reduce the likelihood of damage.
Better Light and Ventilation: If your old skylight is cloudy or has reduced light transmission, a new skylight can brighten up your space and improve ventilation, especially if you opt for a vented skylight.
Aesthetic Appeal: Replacing an old skylight can improve your home’s curb appeal and the overall aesthetics of your space.
Conclusion
Old skylights can pose a range of challenges, from leaks to energy inefficiency. While regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan, there comes a point when repair or replacement is the best solution. Whether you decide to seal or upgrade your skylight, or replace it entirely, addressing an aging skylight promptly will help protect your home from water damage, improve energy efficiency, and ensure that your skylight continues to provide natural light for years to come.