The Dangers of Leaking Skylights in Arlington, WA Homes
Jen Woslager • December 2, 2024
Skylights are a fantastic way to bring natural light into your home, enhancing its beauty and warmth. However, like any other feature in your roof, skylights can develop issues over time, particularly leaks. If you're a homeowner in Arlington, WA, you may experience the occasional leaking skylight, which can cause a range of problems. Understanding the potential damage and what to look for can help you address the issue before it worsens.
At Washington Roofing Services, we specialize in roof repairs and maintenance, and we understand the impact a leaking skylight can have on your home. Here’s what you need to know.
What Causes a Skylight to Leak?
A skylight can leak for several reasons. Over time, weather and wear can degrade the seals around the skylight, causing water to seep in. Other common causes include:
• Improper Installation:
If your skylight wasn’t installed properly, it could lead to gaps or weak seals that allow water to penetrate.
• Age and Wear:
Skylights, especially older ones, are more susceptible to leaks as the materials break down or become damaged.
• Condensation:
In some cases, poor insulation around the skylight can lead to condensation inside, which can cause water to drip down into your home.
• Damage from Debris:
Falling branches or other debris can damage the skylight or disrupt the flashing, allowing water to seep in.
Damages Caused by Leaking Skylights
A leaking skylight may seem like a small problem, but it can lead to a host of serious issues if not addressed promptly. Here’s what you could face:
1.
Water Damage to Ceilings and Walls Water seeping through a skylight can cause significant damage to your ceiling and walls. Over time, the moisture can weaken the structure, leading to stains, peeling paint, and even mold growth. If the water reaches electrical wiring, it could pose an electrical hazard as well.
2.
Wood Rot The water that leaks through your skylight can pool on your roof deck or around the window frame, leading to wood rot. This can compromise the structural integrity of your roof and surrounding beams. Left unchecked, wood rot can spread to other areas of your home, requiring costly repairs.
3.
Mold and Mildew Growth Leaking skylights create a moist environment that encourages mold and mildew growth. Mold can spread quickly, and inhaling spores can cause health problems for your family. It’s important to address any leaks as soon as possible to prevent mold from becoming a bigger issue.
4.
Energy Inefficiency A leaking skylight can also affect the energy efficiency of your home. Gaps around the skylight can allow warm or cool air to escape, making your heating and cooling systems work harder. This can lead to higher energy bills and reduced comfort inside your home.
5.
Damage to Flooring If the leak is significant enough, it can even affect the flooring beneath the skylight, causing water damage to hardwood floors, carpets, and tiles. This can lead to the need for costly repairs or replacements of flooring materials.
What to Look For with Leaking Skylights
If you suspect your skylight is leaking, here are the signs to watch for:
• Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls:
One of the most common signs of a leaking skylight is water stains or discoloration on your ceiling or walls near the skylight.
• Dripping Water:
If you notice water actually dripping from the skylight or around its edges, it’s a clear indication of a leak.
• Condensation Inside the Skylight:
While condensation may form on the skylight’s interior during cold weather, excessive moisture or condensation can signal a leak.
• Peeling Paint or Wallpaper:
If the paint or wallpaper around the skylight is peeling or bubbling, it could be due to trapped moisture from a slow leak.
• Musty Odor:
A persistent musty smell in the area near your skylight could be a sign of mold or mildew growing due to trapped moisture.
• Visible Gaps or Cracks:
Inspect the skylight for any obvious cracks or gaps, which could be allowing water to enter.
How to Fix a Leaking Skylight
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it’s important to act quickly to avoid further damage. Here’s what you can do:
1. Inspect the Skylight:
Check for cracks, gaps, or damaged seals around the skylight. If you feel comfortable, you can inspect the area on your roof to ensure the flashing around the skylight is intact.
2. Clean the Area:
Sometimes debris or dirt can block proper drainage around the skylight, causing water to pool. Make sure the area around the skylight is clear of leaves, twigs, or other debris.
3. Temporary Measures:
If you can’t address the issue right away, consider using a waterproof tarp to cover the skylight and prevent further water damage until repairs can be made.
4. Call a Roofing Professional:
It’s always best to have a professional roofing contractor inspect and repair a leaking skylight. At Washington Roofing Services, we can assess the situation, provide effective repairs, and help prevent future leaks from occurring.
Why You Should Act Fast in Arlington, WA
In Arlington, WA, the climate can make roof issues even more pressing, as our rainy, cold winters and high humidity create perfect conditions for leaks to cause significant damage. A leaking skylight, if left unaddressed, can escalate into much more expensive repairs and extensive damage to your home. The sooner you catch the problem, the easier and more affordable it will be to fix.
Leaking skylights are not a problem to ignore. They can cause extensive damage to your home’s structure, leading to costly repairs and potential health hazards. If you notice any signs of a leaking skylight, contact Washington Roofing Services
for a professional inspection and prompt repairs. Our expert team will help you safeguard your home against water damage and ensure your skylight remains a beautiful, functional feature of your home for years to come.
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