Troubleshooting Your View: Common Skylight Problems in Philadelphia
Skylights are a wonderful asset, but like any part of a home, they can experience issues over time. Being proactive about maintenance and understanding common failures with Philadelphia skylights can save homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs.
Problem 1: Leaks – The Enemy #1
Leaks are the number one concern, especially in older Philadelphia rowhomes with flat roofs where water tends to pool.
Symptoms: Brown water stains on the ceiling, bubbling drywall paint, or dampness around the light shaft.
The Cause: Usually, the skylight itself isn't leaking; the flashing (the metal or membrane seal connecting the skylight to the roof) has failed.
The Solution: If the skylight is new, the flashing might need resealing. If the unit is over 15 years old, it is usually more cost-effective to replace the entire unit and flashing kit.
Problem 2: Condensation vs. Leaks
Homeowners often mistake condensation for a leak.
The Scenario: In winter, warm, moist air from your home rises and hits the cold skylight glass, turning into water droplets that drip down.
The Philadelphia Factor: Philly homes are often kept warm in winter while outside temps drop below freezing, creating the perfect condition for condensation ("sweating").
The Solution: Upgrade to double-glazed or triple-glazed units with insulated frames. Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens to lower indoor humidity.
Problem 3: Ice Dams
The Issue: Snow melts on the warm parts of the roof, runs down, and refreezes at the skylight flashing or gutters, trapping water behind it. This standing water can back up under shingles.
The Solution: Professional installers use an "ice and water shield" adhesive membrane around the skylight during installation to waterproof the underlayment.
Problem 4: Cracked Glass
The Cause: Hailstorms, falling branches from street trees, or even thermal stress.
The Solution: Replace the glass immediately. Modern skylights use laminated glass (like a car windshield) on the inner pane so that if it breaks, the glass stays in place rather than shattering onto the floor below.
Problem 5: Radiant Heat Gain
The Issue: The room gets unbearably hot in July.
The Solution: Add solar-powered blinds. These can block 90% of the heat before it enters the room. Retiring old clear-glass skylights for new Low-E coated models also makes a massive difference.
Conclusion Most skylight problems stem from poor initial installation or age. In Philadelphia’s climate, DIY fixes often fail. Professional diagnosis ensures that a small drip doesn't turn into a structural disaster.
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