Skylight Replacement Guide: What You Need to Know as a Pittsburgh Homeowner

No Pittsburgh roofing installation would be complete without a proper skylight. These horizontal windows are perfect for letting more natural light into your home, and they’re sure to impress all of your guests. However, even the best skylights need to be replaced once in a while. Let’s take a look at what options are available for the replacement, as well as some tell-tale signs that will let you know it’s time to call your local Pittsburgh roofing contractor to perform this service.

What Are My Skylight Options

There are two basic types of skylight that you can choose between, which are Pyramid and Velux. However, the option you choose should depend on the shape and style of your roof. You may need to contact a licensed roofer in Pittsburgh for a second opinion.

Pyramid

If your home has a flat roof, then a product from the Pyramid brand would be appropriate for you. The style is quite classic and appealing, and it offers the perfect natural illumination solution. Homeowners even have the option to have it installed with its own ventilation system.

Velux

For a more updated style, Velux brand skylights are the way to go. These lights are somewhat more versatile than Pyramid products, as they are suitable for shingled and flat roofs. For the environmentally conscious, they can also be installed with optional solar power capabilities.

How Do I Know If It’s Time for a Replacement?

When in doubt, it’s always best to hire a representative from your local roofing company to perform an inspection to determine if a replacement is needed. However, here are four of the most common indicators that you can look for on your own.

Cracked Glass

If you notice any cracks in your skylight, it’s definitely time to invest in a replacement. This can present a serious safety risk if the window shatters, but the cracks alone are enough to let in unwanted moisture that can harm your home.

Rust

Rust will naturally build up over time around the skylight’s metal frame, but once it gets to a certain point, it can become hazardous. If left unchecked, the entire fixture could weaken and fall out or otherwise hurt your roof.

Clogged Weep Holes

Weep holes are a crucial component of your skylight that prevents water damage from occurring. If you notice any blockages in these small holes, you should probably think about scheduling a replacement service.

Roof Replacement

If you are already doing a significant amount of roof repair, Pittsburgh contractors can replace your skylight in addition. It only makes sense to have this done in addition to an entire roof replacement or major roof touch-up. It’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of a discount on combined services.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, then it’s definitely time to give your local Pittsburgh roofing company a call and schedule a skylight replacement service. It should be easy to find a qualified roofing contractor in Pittsburgh, PA that is willing to do the job for a reasonable rate. If you’re already investing in needed roof repairs, you might as well request a skylight replacement in addition to save on bundled services.