When to Replace Your Skylight

Skylights flood Florida homes with beautiful natural light, reduce electricity use during daylight hours, and create an airy, open feeling. But like all roofing components, skylights don't last forever. Florida's intense UV radiation, heavy rains, and occasional hurricanes take their toll. Knowing when to repair versus replace helps you make smart decisions about maintaining these valuable features.

Understanding Skylight Lifespan

Before evaluating your skylights, understand typical lifespans:

Average Lifespan by Type

Acrylic Dome Skylights:

• Typical lifespan: 10-15 years
• Florida conditions may shorten this
• UV degradation is primary failure mode

Glass Skylights:

• Typical lifespan: 15-25 years
• Seal failure often occurs before glass deterioration
• Higher quality units last longer

Tubular Skylights (Sun Tunnels):

• Typical lifespan: 10-20 years
• Dome and flashing typically fail before tube
• Simpler design means fewer failure points

Florida-Specific Factors

Our climate accelerates skylight aging:

• Intense UV: Degrades seals, discolors acrylic, stresses materials
• Temperature extremes: Daily thermal cycling stresses seals and frames
• Heavy rainfall: Tests waterproofing constantly
• Humidity: Promotes seal degradation and condensation issues
• Hurricanes: Can damage frames, glazing, and flashing

A skylight rated for 20 years in northern climates may only last 12-15 years in Central Florida.

Signs Your Skylight Needs Attention

Watch for these indicators that your skylight may need repair or replacement:

Visible Leaks

Active Water Intrusion:

• Water dripping during rain
• Water trails on walls or ceiling
• Puddles forming on floor below

Evidence of Past Leaks:

• Water stains on ceiling or walls around skylight
• Discoloration of surrounding drywall
• Paint peeling or bubbling nearby

Leaks can come from failed seals, damaged flashing, or cracked glazing. Small leaks often become big problems if not addressed.

Condensation Problems

Between Panes (Dual-Pane Units):

• Foggy appearance that doesn't clear
• Moisture or water droplets between glass layers
• Indicates seal failure—insulating value compromised

Interior Condensation:

• Water forming on inside surface
• May indicate ventilation issues rather than skylight failure
• Can lead to mold growth if persistent

Discoloration or Hazing

Acrylic/Plastic Skylights:

• Yellowing from UV exposure
• Cloudy or hazy appearance
• Reduced light transmission
• Indicates material breakdown

Glass Skylights:

• Coating deterioration
• Mineral buildup between panes
• Scratching or etching from debris

Physical Damage

Cracks:

• Visible cracks in glazing
• Stress cracks from temperature changes
• Impact damage from debris

Frame Damage:

• Warped or misshapen frames
• Corrosion on metal components
• Separation at joints

Flashing Problems:

• Visible rust or deterioration
• Separation from roof surface
• Missing or damaged components

Operational Issues

Venting Skylights:

• Won't open or close properly
• Difficult to operate
• Motor failure on electric units
• Seal doesn't seat when closed

Age-Related Concerns

Even without visible problems:

• Units over 15-20 years old are approaching end of life
• Re-roofing is an ideal time to evaluate skylights
• Older designs may not meet current code requirements

Repair vs. Replace: Making the Decision

Some skylight problems can be repaired; others warrant replacement:

When Repair Makes Sense

Minor Seal Issues:

• Small leaks at flashing
• Caulk failures at frame edges
• Gasket deterioration

Flashing Problems:

• Flashing can often be repaired or replaced
• Especially if skylight unit is newer
• Less expensive than full replacement

Operational Repairs:

• Motor replacement on venting units
• Hardware repairs
• Screen replacement

Cost Comparison:

Repair typically runs $150-$500 for minor issues. If repair costs approach 50% or more of replacement cost, replacement usually makes more sense.

When Replacement Is Better

Glazing Failure:

• Cracked or broken glass/acrylic
• Seal failure between panes (foggy glass)
• Severely discolored or degraded glazing

Frame Damage:

• Warped or corroded frames
• Structural integrity compromised
• Significant rot or deterioration

Age:

• Units over 15-20 years old
• Obsolete designs or sizes
• During re-roofing projects

Energy Efficiency:

• Old single-pane units
• Desire for Low-E or impact-rated glazing
• Upgrading to better performing product

Multiple Issues:

• Several problems present simultaneously
• Recurring repairs not solving problems
• Throwing good money after bad

Replacement During Re-Roofing

If you're planning roof replacement, strongly consider skylight replacement:

Why Re-Roofing Is Ideal Timing

Flashing Integration:

• New skylight flashing integrates properly with new roofing
• Avoids disturbing new roof later for skylight replacement
• Warranty considerations for both roof and skylight

Cost Efficiency:

• Roofers already on-site and working
• Roof is already opened up
• May get better pricing as part of larger project

Age Alignment:

• New roof and skylights age together
• Won't need skylight replacement mid-roof-life
• Simplified future planning

The 10-Year Rule

General guideline: If your skylights are more than 10 years old when you're re-roofing, replace them. The incremental cost during re-roofing is much less than separate replacement later, and you avoid disturbing your new roof.

Skylight Options for Replacement

Modern skylights offer significant improvements over older units:

Glazing Options

Impact-Rated Glass:

• Required in many Florida locations
• Protects against wind-borne debris
• May qualify for insurance discounts

Low-E Coatings:

• Reflects heat while transmitting light
• Reduces cooling costs
• Protects furnishings from UV fading

Dual or Triple Pane:

• Better insulation value
• Reduces condensation
• Quieter (less rain noise)

Frame Materials

Aluminum:

• Durable, low maintenance
• Can transfer heat (thermal bridging)
• Good for Florida's corrosive environment

Vinyl:

• Better insulation properties
• Lower cost
• May degrade faster in intense sun

Composite:

• Good insulation and durability
• Resists rot and corrosion
• Higher cost

Types of Skylights

Fixed Skylights:

• Sealed, non-opening
• Fewer leak points
• Lower cost

Venting Skylights:

• Can be opened for ventilation
• Manual or electric operation
• Great for bathrooms and kitchens

Tubular Skylights:

• Smaller, less expensive
• Good for hallways and small spaces
• Easier installation

Installation Considerations

Proper skylight installation is critical:

Code Requirements

Florida Building Code specifies:

• Impact resistance requirements (varies by location)
• Flashing requirements
• Size limitations for certain applications
• Energy code compliance

Flashing Systems

Quality installation requires:

• Manufacturer-specified flashing kits
• Proper integration with roof system
• Step flashing and counter flashing
• Water barrier membrane beneath

Professional Installation

Skylight installation requires roofing expertise:

• Cutting roof opening properly
• Maintaining structural integrity
• Waterproofing the penetration
• Finishing interior properly

DIY skylight installation often leads to leaks and problems. Professional installation protects your investment.

Skylight Maintenance

Extend your skylight's life with regular maintenance:

Exterior Maintenance

• Clean glazing annually (mild soap and water)
• Clear debris from flashing and drainage paths
• Inspect seals and caulk
• Check flashing for damage

Interior Maintenance

• Clean interior glazing
• Lubricate operating mechanisms on venting units
• Check for condensation patterns
• Inspect seals and trim

Professional Inspection

Include skylights in your regular roof inspections:

• Check from both roof and attic
• Evaluate seal and flashing condition
• Identify problems before they become serious

Cost Considerations

Budget appropriately for skylight replacement:

Replacement Costs

Fixed Skylights:

• Standard: $300-$800 for unit
• Impact-rated: $500-$1,200 for unit
• Installation: $300-$600
• Total: $600-$1,800 typical

Venting Skylights:

• Standard: $500-$1,500 for unit
• Electric/solar: $800-$2,500 for unit
• Installation: $400-$800
• Total: $900-$3,300 typical

Tubular Skylights:

• Unit: $200-$500
• Installation: $200-$400
• Total: $400-$900 typical

Factors Affecting Cost

• Size and type of skylight
• Impact-rated requirements
• Roof type and pitch
• Interior finishing needs
• Accessibility

Long-Term Value

Quality skylights provide:

• Natural lighting reducing electricity costs
• Improved home resale appeal
• Better energy efficiency with modern glazing
• Enhanced living space quality

The Bottom Line

Skylights are wonderful features that require attention as they age. In Florida's demanding climate, expect skylights to need replacement after 15-20 years—sometimes sooner if exposed to storm damage or poor-quality original installation.

Watch for warning signs: leaks, condensation between panes, discoloration, and operational problems. When repair costs mount or multiple issues appear, replacement is usually the smarter investment.

If you're re-roofing and your skylights are over 10 years old, replace them as part of the project. The incremental cost is much lower than separate replacement later, and you'll have a complete, warranted system.

At Pro Specialty Services, we evaluate skylights as part of every roof inspection and repair project. Whether you need skylight repair or replacement, we ensure proper installation that protects your home from Florida's challenging weather.

Concerned about your skylights? Contact us for an inspection. We'll assess their condition honestly and recommend the most cost-effective solution.