When planning a roof replacement, many homeowners wonder whether their skylight should also be replaced during the same project. If you’re already working with professionals like Synergy Skylights and Roofing for your roof upgrade, it’s the perfect time to evaluate the condition and functionality of your skylight as well. While not always mandatory, replacing a skylight during a roof replacement often saves time, money, and future headaches. To understand the pros and cons of this decision, it’s essential to weigh the risks, benefits, and timing involved. You can also explore energy-efficient home upgrades to see how skylight design plays into long-term home performance.
Why Skylight Replacement Is Often Recommended?
Although skylights are designed to be durable, they don’t last forever. Most standard skylights have a lifespan of approximately 15 to 20 years, depending on the material and the quality of installation. If your skylight is approaching the end of its service life, replacing it while your roof is being redone is both logical and cost-effective.
Coordinating both replacements ensures that your roofing contractor can properly seal the skylight with the new roofing materials. This prevents potential leaks, condensation, and insulation issues that could arise if the skylight is left untouched.
Avoiding Future Roof Damage
One of the main concerns with keeping an old skylight is the risk of leaks. Even if the current seal appears intact, disturbing the roofing around an aging skylight can weaken the waterproofing and lead to damage later. If a skylight fails after your new roof is installed, the repair process may require lifting or cutting into the fresh roofing materials, undoing some of the work you’ve just paid for.
By replacing the skylight at the same time, your contractor ensures a cohesive, watertight barrier from the outset. This reduces the chances of future water damage to your attic, insulation, drywall, and interior finishes.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency
Today’s skylights are vastly more efficient than those manufactured even a decade ago. Modern models feature double- or triple-glazing, UV protection, low-E coatings, and enhanced frame insulation—all of which contribute to improved energy performance.
If your current skylight lacks these features, it could be costing you more in heating and cooling bills. Replacing it during a roof upgrade provides an opportunity to enhance your home’s energy efficiency and comfort, particularly in rooms frequently exposed to direct sunlight.
Aesthetic and Functional Upgrades
A roof replacement project is also the perfect time to rethink the style, size, and placement of your skylights. You’d prefer a model that opens for ventilation, one with built-in blinds, or a sleek flat-glass design that fits modern aesthetics. Newer skylights often feature advanced options such as rain sensors, solar-powered operation, and automated light control.
A replacement may even allow you to reposition the skylight for better natural lighting or to eliminate glare issues.
When You Might Keep Your Existing Skylight
There are a few scenarios where it might make sense to leave your current skylight in place:
- It’s fairly new: If your skylight was installed recently and shows no signs of wear or leakage, it might be unnecessary to replace it so soon.
- No visible damage: A thorough inspection from your contractor confirms that the skylight is in excellent condition, with no cracks, fogging, or seal issues.
- Budget constraints: If replacing the skylight pushes you over budget, it can be deferred; however, it’s essential to understand the associated risks.
However, even in these situations, be prepared for a possible replacement to be announced shortly. Discussing your options with your contractor can help you make an informed choice.
What the Replacement Process Looks Like
If you decide to replace the skylight, the process is generally straightforward. Your roofing team will remove the existing unit, adjust the opening if necessary, install the new skylight, and seamlessly flash it into your new roof. This approach ensures that the skylight is properly integrated and sealed to prevent moisture infiltration.
Working with experienced companies like Synergy Skylights and Roofing ensures that every element—from skylight framing to flashing—is handled professionally and efficiently. Their team specializes in both roofing and skylight systems, allowing for smooth coordination and efficient installation.
Final Thoughts
While it’s not always necessary, replacing your skylight when you replace your roof is often the most sensible long-term decision. It helps maintain a watertight seal, prevents future damage, and allows for energy and aesthetic upgrades—all while avoiding the hassle and extra cost of tearing into a brand-new roof down the road.