Skylights are a popular and practical addition to any home. They let natural light in, make rooms look more spacious, and offer a great view of the outdoors. However, like any other features of your house, skylights can also pose some problems if not installed or maintained properly by the experts, such as philadelphia roofer.
In this blog post, we’ll show you some major issues that commonly arise with skylights and provide tips on how to avoid them. Whether you’re thinking about installing new skylights or already have them in your home, this article will help you understand potential problems and how to prevent them from happening.
Water Leakage
If not addressed promptly, this issue can cause extensive damage to your home’s interior and structure. The source of water leakage can be difficult to determine, but some possible causes include improper installation, damaged flashing or caulking around the skylight, or a crack in the glass. To avoid water leakage from your skylight, ensure it is installed by a professional with experience working with skylights. They will know how to install the flashing correctly and ensure all seals are watertight.
In addition to proper installation and regular maintenance, consider investing in high-quality materials when installing a new skylight, such as tempered glass, for better durability against harsh weather conditions.
Roof Ventilation Problems
Roof ventilation is of utmost importance as it helps maintain a healthy indoor environment and prevents moisture buildup in the attic. However, skylights can sometimes lead to roof ventilation problems if not installed or maintained properly.
A key issue that may arise due to improper skylight installation is blocked airflow. When a skylight obstructs the natural flow of air between soffit vents and roof ridge vents, it can cause condensation issues inside the attic. This excess moisture puts your home at risk for mold growth and wood rot, which can significantly impact its structural integrity.
Overheating
Did you know that skylights are created to bring in natural light and warmth, but sometimes they can let in too much heat, causing discomfort and increased energy bills? The driving cause is definitely the location of the skylight. If it faces south or west, it will receive direct sunlight for most of the day, leading to higher temperatures inside your home. To avoid this issue, consider installing a skylight on a north-facing roof or opting for a vented model that allows you to control airflow.
Some homeowners make the mistake of leaving their blinds or shades open during peak sunlight hours when they’re not at home. Doing so only lets more heat inside while wasting electricity by cooling an empty space. Remember always close them before leaving.
Energy Loss
Skylights can be such an ideal source of natural light, but they also have the potential to cause energy loss. When poorly installed or designed, skylights can allow heat to escape during the winter and enter during the summer months. This results in higher energy bills and less comfort for your home. To prevent this from happening, consider going for one with proper insulation. Double-paned glass with low-emissivity coatings is an excellent option as it helps control temperature transfer between indoors and outdoors. You can also choose a skylight that has been Energy Star certified.
Skylights have become popular in modern architecture thanks to their ability to let natural light into interior spaces and add visual appeal to a building’s design. But issues are always there. Fret not, as you can enjoy all the benefits that come along with having beautiful skylights while avoiding potential setbacks down the road if you do the necessary maintenance regularly.