When planning a roof replacement, homeowners often wonder if their skylights should be replaced simultaneously. While skylights provide natural light and warmth, they also pose certain risks if not replaced along with the roof. Champion Restoration and Construction provides expert advice on the benefits of replacing your skylights during a roof replacement. Champion Restoration and Construction offers insights to help you make an informed decision.
Why Replacing the Skylight is Best
Replacing skylights during a roof replacement is generally recommended for several reasons:
Compatibility with New Roof
Skylights are designed and installed with your current roof in mind. Changes in roof materials, style, slope, or pitch can render existing skylights incompatible with the new roof. Ensuring that skylights are compatible with the new roof structure is essential for maintaining their functionality and preventing leaks.
Potential Damage During Roof Replacement
The process of tearing off the old roof and installing a new one can cause wear and damage to the skylight’s seals, frame, and panes. Even the most experienced roofers cannot avoid weakening skylight materials during roof replacement. Replacing skylights eliminates the risk of compromising their integrity.
Reflashing Weakens Skylights
Reflashing a skylight involves replacing the flashing material around it to prevent leaks. However, this process significantly reduces the skylight’s lifespan and often voids the manufacturer’s warranty. New skylights come with factory-installed flashing designed to integrate seamlessly with the roof, providing better protection and longevity.
Risks of Reusing Old Skylights
Increased Likelihood of Leaks
Old skylights may develop leaks, allowing water and humidity to enter your home. This can lead to mold growth and damage to your new roof, necessitating expensive repairs shortly after installation.
Reduced Efficiency
Older skylights may lack modern energy-efficient features such as low-emissivity coatings, multiple pane layers, and glazes. Upgrading to new skylights during a roof replacement improves energy efficiency and enhances the overall comfort of your home.
Cost Benefits of Replacing Skylights During Roof Replacement
Lower Labor Costs
Replacing skylights during a roof tear-down is more cost-effective than a standalone skylight replacement. With the roof decking exposed, installing new skylights is simpler and quicker, resulting in lower labor costs.
Increased Roof and Skylight Lifespan
New skylights are designed to integrate seamlessly with the new roof, extending the lifespan of both. This integration reduces the risk of leaks and other issues that could compromise the roof’s integrity.
Enhanced Home Value
Modern skylights equipped with advanced features enhance your home’s energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal, providing numerous benefits beyond natural light. These innovative skylights often include energy-efficient glazing, automated shading, and improved insulation, which help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.
By boosting natural light and offering stylish design options, skylights can significantly increase your home’s market value. Their ability to brighten interior spaces and improve overall ambiance adds a touch of luxury while contributing to environmental sustainability. Investing in high-quality skylights not only elevates your home’s visual appeal but also provides practical advantages that enhance comfort and efficiency.
Conclusion
Replacing your skylights during a roof replacement ensures compatibility, prevents potential damage, and offers cost benefits. By upgrading to new, energy-efficient skylights, you enhance your home’s comfort and value. At Champion Restoration and Construction, we provide expert skylight installation services to complement your new roof.
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