How to Seal a Skylight
A common question that people ask is “How to seal a skylight?” In this article, you will learn how to do this task yourself. Basically, it involves sealing the glass in the skylight. There are a few steps to follow. First, you must ensure that the window is well protected from the elements. To do this, you must use clear silicone caulk. Once you have the caulk ready, you can start sealing the window.
To perform the sealing job, you will need to climb on the roof and remove debris around the window. Once you are on the roof, examine the flashing for cracks. The flashing should be firm and tightly fit. If you see small holes or raised seams, you should replace them. If you see any shingles that have been cracked, you can remove them and replace them with the new ones. Then, replace the shingles with new ones.
To seal the skylight, make sure you clear the area where it is located. If you have small leaks around the lens, you can apply roofing cement or 100% silicone caulk to patch the area. If you have metal flashing surrounding the skylight, you can repair it with a new one. Depending on the cause of the leak, you might need to replash the entire area. In either case, it is important to consult a professional to complete the sealing job properly.
After ensuring that the metal flashing is intact, you can proceed with the sealing job. First, remove any debris around the window and then check the flashing for cracks and tears. The flashing should fit snugly and show no signs of cracking. Look for any small holes or raised seams. If you see any shingle holes, you should repair them with the same roofing cement. It is essential to ensure that the skylight is completely sealed and secure.
Once you’ve cleaned the area around the skylight, you should carefully inspect the flashings. They should be tight and show no cracks. In addition, you should check the weep holes. Weep holes are designed to carry water and should be sealed with a waterproofing compound. The same method should be used for sealing the gaps under the metal flashing. Lastly, you should check the frame of the skylight. It is necessary to take care of any damages or broken metal.
Before you begin, it is important to remove any debris from the area around the skylight. Using a thick work glove, spread roofing tar over the outer walls of the skylight. Pay close attention to the corners and to the holes in the metal. Also, be sure to lift loose shingles and to run the roofing tar over them. This is an excellent time to repair the roof of the skylight.