What Problems Do Skylight Inspection Services Detect?

Skylights can completely transform your home by bringing in natural light, improving ventilation, and adding a modern, open feel to your space. However, like any part of your roof, skylights require routine inspections and maintenance to ensure they continue performing their best. Over time, exposure to weather and temperature changes can cause wear that leads to leaks, condensation, or energy loss.

That’s where skylight inspection services come in. Regular professional inspections help detect hidden problems early, saving you from expensive repairs or replacements down the road. In this blog, we’ll look at the most common skylight issues professionals identify and why scheduling routine inspections with Craig Gouker Roofing is essential for keeping your home protected and efficient.

Why Regular Skylight Inspections Matter

Even if your skylight looks fine from the inside, there could be hidden problems developing around the flashing, seals, or glass. Skylights are constantly exposed to sunlight, rain, and temperature shifts, all of which can cause gradual wear.

Professional inspections:

• Detect leaks and moisture intrusion early

• Prevent structural damage to your roof and ceilings

• Preserve insulation and energy efficiency

• Extend the life of your skylight and roofing system

  
  

By catching small problems before they become major, you’ll save both time and money while ensuring your skylight performs properly year-round.

Common Problems Detected During Skylight Inspections

Skylight inspections cover both the inside and outside of your skylight, including the glass, frame, flashing, and surrounding roofing materials. Here are some of the most common problems professionals find during an inspection.

1. Leaks and Moisture Damage

Leaks are the most common issue skylight inspections uncover. Over time, seals and flashing around the skylight can degrade, allowing rainwater to seep in. Even small leaks can cause major problems, such as ceiling stains, mold growth, or interior water damage.

Professionals look for signs of moisture around the frame, drywall, and insulation. Early detection allows for simple resealing or minor repairs instead of full replacements later.

2. Cracked or Damaged Glass

Cracks or chips in the skylight glass can develop due to debris impact, hail, or thermal stress from temperature fluctuations. Damaged glass not only affects appearance but can also compromise insulation and allow water to penetrate.

During an inspection, experts check for visible cracks, scratches, or fogging between glass panes that indicate a broken seal.

3. Failing or Deteriorated Seals

The seals between the glass and frame are crucial for keeping water and air out. As these seals age, they can harden, shrink, or crack, leading to drafts, condensation, and energy loss.

An inspection identifies areas where sealant has failed or is wearing down so it can be replaced before leaks occur.

4. Flashing Issues

Flashing is the metal or waterproof barrier that surrounds the skylight and connects it to your roof. If installed improperly or damaged by weather, flashing can pull away, allowing water to enter beneath shingles.

Professionals inspect the flashing for gaps, corrosion, or lifting edges and ensure it’s still watertight and securely attached.

5. Condensation or Fogging Between Glass Panes

Double-paned skylights are designed to trap air between layers of glass for better insulation. When seals fail, moisture can get trapped inside, causing fogging or condensation between panes.

This not only reduces visibility but also signals a loss of insulation efficiency. An inspection helps identify this issue early so the skylight can be resealed or replaced as needed.

6. Structural or Roof Damage Around the Skylight

Sometimes the skylight itself is fine, but the roofing materials around it may have problems. Missing shingles, warped decking, or soft spots near the skylight can cause leaks and instability.

Inspectors check for roofing issues surrounding the skylight to ensure your entire system remains secure and weather-resistant.

7. Improper Installation or Alignment

If your skylight was installed incorrectly, problems may not appear right away. Over time, poor alignment or sealing can lead to leaks, drafts, and stress cracks.

A professional inspection can spot signs of improper installation and recommend corrective action before damage spreads to your roof or ceiling.

8. Mold or Water Stains Inside the Home

Visible water stains or mold around your skylight’s interior frame are red flags that water has already entered. During inspections, professionals use specialized tools to locate the moisture source and recommend proper remediation to prevent further damage.

How Often Should You Schedule Skylight Inspections?

Homeowners should schedule a professional skylight inspection at least once a year, ideally before or after the harshest seasons. If your area experiences heavy rain, snow, or storms, more frequent inspections are recommended.

It’s also a good idea to schedule an inspection anytime you notice interior water spots, drafts, or condensation around your skylight.

Why Hire Professionals for Skylight Inspections?

Climbing onto your roof to inspect a skylight yourself can be risky, and without the right tools and experience, it’s easy to miss hidden issues. Professionals like Craig Gouker Roofing are trained to safely inspect every component of your skylight and roof, ensuring no problem goes unnoticed.

When you schedule an inspection with us, our experts:

• Perform a full interior and exterior skylight check

• Identify leaks, cracks, or worn flashing

• Clean debris and check for ventilation issues

• Provide clear recommendations for repair or maintenance

Keep Your Skylight Safe, Efficient, and Leak-Free

Your skylight should fill your home with light, not cause headaches from leaks or water damage. Regular skylight inspection services detect early warning signs and prevent costly repairs while keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient.

At Craig Gouker Roofing, we offer thorough skylight inspection and maintenance services designed to protect both your skylight and roof. Our experienced team ensures everything from the glass to the flashing is in top condition.

Call us today at (412) 664-7679 or fill out an online form to schedule your skylight inspection. Let our experts keep your home bright, safe, and worry-free all year long.