If you’re considering installing a skylight, it’s essential to understand the important connection between skylights and your roof to protect your home from potential problems.

Many homeowners worry that installing a skylight will cause leaks in their roof, but the “all skylights leak” is a actually a myth. The leading cause of leaking skylights is poor installation, leak barrier errors or improper methods used during construction. If you install a skylight incorrectly, it won’t be properly sealed against weather. Poor quality materials can also contribute to problems down the road and a leaking skylight or roof is inevitable.

The best way to ensure that your skylight won’t leak is to install it correctly by a roofing professional experienced with the installation process like Denny’s Roofing. Choosing quality materials, such as the right waterproofing membranes and flashings, is also vital to protecting the roofing system.

Installing a skylight can be a great way to bring natural light into your home and create a beautiful aesthetic. However, installing a skylight also involves working on the roof, and that’s why it’s critical to consider the following things before installing one: 

1. Determine the Right Placement

When installing a skylight, think about the direction of sunlight you want. 

South-facing skylights bring in the most direct sunlight and are best if you’re looking to maximize natural lighting. East-facing skylights get morning sun and are the brightest during winter when days are shorter. West-facing skylights are great for bringing in the afternoon sunlight and can be used to enjoy the sunset or watch a beautiful sky during the night. North-facing skylights bring in diffused, indirect light throughout the day, which is best for preventing overheating from direct sunlight. When you’re thinking about the room in which you want to add a skylight, clarify your goals for lighting will help you determine the best placement.

2. Consider Your Existing Roofing Materials 

When installing a skylight, it’s essential to consider how it will affect your roof. 

Skylights are an opening in the roof and should be installed carefully by a professional roofing company to ensure that waterproofing isn’t compromised. Check with your local professional before installing a skylight to ensure it won’t compromise the integrity of your existing roof or cause any other potential damage in the form of future leaks. This is really not a do-it-yourself type of project. Adding extra insulation or ventilation may also be necessary to prevent heat loss.

If your roof is aging and nearing the end of its lifespan, installing a skylight may not be the best idea, as it can cause additional stress to the already weakened roofing system. It will also add weight to your roof, so make sure that it can support the extra weight before installing one. These steps can help protect your home from future damage and ensure the skylight gets installed correctly. When installing a skylight, use quality materials designed to withstand extreme temperatures, wind, snow, ice and of course rain!

3. Prevent Heat Gain by Installing Vents or Shutters

When installing a skylight, prioritize improving air circulation and reducing heat gain.

Installing a skylight is a great way to bring in natural light and ventilation while adding character and beauty to your home. However, installing a skylight can also increase the amount of heat gain into the home through your roofing materials. To help prevent this, installing vents or shutters or even solar shades near the skylight can improve air circulation and reduce heat gain. 

This is especially beneficial during summer when temperatures can be high outside. That said, it’s crucial to ensure that installing vents or shutters near a skylight doesn’t damage your roofing material. So, it’s wise to consult a professional company for advice on protecting your roof before installing it. Installing vents or shutters near a skylight allows you to enjoy the benefits of natural light and air circulation without sacrificing energy efficiency!

4. Hire a Professional with Experiencing Installing Skylights

When installing a skylight, hiring a professional roofer often makes the most sense!

Denny’s Roofing is a certified Velux Instalation Specialist and listed on their website. 

It’s best to get help from a professional roofer or contractor when installing a skylight, as they will have the right tools and knowledge to install it, ensuring to seal any potential leaks or drafts properly. Not all roofers have extensive experience installing skylights, so ask questions before hiring them such as how many skylights they’ve installed in the past, what type of skylights they’re used to installing, and whether or not they can provide references from customers who have installed skylights with them in the past.

It’s also vital to ensure the roofer is familiar with installing skylights on various roof types and materials, such as metal and tile. This will help protect your roof from any potential damage during the skylight installation process. The difference in the installation of all three is a very different process for each.  

Lastly, ask your roofer what steps they will take to ensure the skylight is installed correctly and safely. A professional roofer should be able to answer all of these questions and provide guidance on protecting your roof before installing a skylight.

If you’re considering installing a skylight on your roof, you’ll need to understand the process. We don’t recommend this being a do-it-yourself project. Too many things can go wrong. But if you are set on doing it yourself… Here is the process.

Several methods exist for installing skylights on roofs, including direct nail-down and shingle-over. Direct nail-down involves attaching the skylight directly to your roof with nails, while shingle over requires installing a flashing and asphalt base prior to installing the skylight. 

Whether you go with direct nail-down or shingle over, be sure to carefully follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions for your particular product.

Let’s look at the process for installing a skylight:

1. Installing a skylight begins by accurately measuring the area on your roof where you plan to install the skylight. This is a crucial step as it will help you determine the type of skylight that’s best for your space and ensure that it fits properly. You’ll need a tape measure, a carpenter’s level, and a chalk line to measure the area accurately. Begin by measuring the opening length in which you plan to install the skylight, making sure to measure from corner to corner so that you accurately measure both the width and length of the opening. Next, use your carpenter’s level or a regular leveler to see if your roof is square or not. You may need to adjust your measurements slightly if it’s not. Once you have the sizes and know that your roof is square, use a chalk line to mark around the perimeter of the opening. This will give you a general idea of where to install the skylight once it arrives.
2. The next step is to ensure that the framing and flashing meet local building codes before installing them. Before installing a skylight, you need to know what type of skylights are allowed in your area, what materials are allowed for the skylight frame and flashing, and how to properly install them. Your local building codes will provide specific information about these requirements. You can find the local codes at your city or county website under building codes or a licensed contractor specializing in installing skylights and roofing. When installing the skylight, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adhere to any additional building code requirements in your area. This will help ensure that it’s correctly installed, sealing out water and protecting your roof from future damage. By doing your research ahead of time and making sure all framing and flashing meet local building codes, installing a skylight can be an easy and rewarding experience. With the proper knowledge and diligence, installing a skylight doesn’t have to be intimidating or overwhelming.
3. After that, cut an opening in the roof deck for the skylight frame and flashings, making sure to protect your roof with a cover or tarp during this process. Strengthen the area around the opening by installing a reinforcing plate of galvanized steel, or plywood. This will help support the skylight opening and protect the roof deck from potential damage. Cut out the marked area using an oscillating saw, jigsaw, or circular saw with a fine-toothed blade. Choosing the right type of saw for the job is important – if you use a saw with too coarse of teeth, it could damage your roof deck. Then, install flashing around the opening and attach it securely to the deck with nails or screws.
4. Once you cut the opening and the framework is correctly mounted, it’s time to install the skylight. With direct nail-down, you’ll simply attach the skylight directly onto your roof with nails. If installing shingle-over, you’ll need to lay a base of asphalt underalyment that is tied into the existing roof system properly and install the proper flashing before installing the actual skylight. Most skylights have the appropriate flashing kits available when you purchase the skylight.
5. Be sure to follow up with some silicone sealant or caulk for extra protection! Once your skylight is installed you must take measures to ensure that it remains properly sealed. This includes installing additional flashing around the edges of your skylight and using sealant to fill any gaps or holes.

What are the most common types of skylights?

Skylights come in various styles, shapes, and sizes. 

The three most popular types of skylights are fixed skylights, operable skylights (often referred to as ventilating skylights), and tubular skylights also referred to as “sun tunnels.”  Fixed skylights are non-opening windows that provide natural light and a great view. Operable skylights open to provide ventilation and can also be used to bring in natural light. Tubular skylights are compact, dome-shaped skylights that fit between roof rafters and provide bright, efficient lighting in hard to reach places like in the middle of the house.

Skylights and roofing materials should be considered together to ensure they complement each other in style and function! Additionally, look for skylights with energy-efficient features such as double glazing and low-emissivity (Low-E) coating.

Considering these factors, you can choose the perfect skylight for your room or home improvement project. With the right combination of style and construction, installing a skylight can be an attractive and efficient way to bring natural light into your home.

Homeowners should also be aware that installing a skylight requires specific knowledge and expertise. If you’re not familiar with roofing techniques and guidelines, or are not a confident do-it-yourselfer, it’s best to hire a professional to do the work for you! 

If you already have skylights installed on your roof, you’ll want to consider how often they need to be replaced to ensure your roof (and your home) stays safe!

But how can you tell when a skylight needs replacing? 

First, inspect your skylights for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks in the glass or worn-out frames. If you notice any wear and tear, it may be time to consider installing a new skylight. You’ll also want to pay attention to any leaks that may occur during the rainier and snowier months. Leaks can be a sign of a compromised seal, so addressing these issues is important before they cause more damage. 

In addition to inspecting for visible signs of damage, another way to see if your skylight needs replacing is by installing a safe ladder and stepping onto your roof to physically inspect the skylight. If you find that your skylight is cracked or damaged, installing a new one will not only protect your roof from future damage but can also help improve your home’s energy efficiency. If you don’t feel comfortable getting up on your roof, hire a professional to do the inspection.

Finally, it’s important not to neglect regular maintenance of your skylight! 

This includes regularly checking for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or leaks. And looking at the area just under the skylight to see if there are any moisture stains or cracks in the wood or sheetrock that need to be addressed. Regularly maintaining your skylight will ensure it lasts longer and keeps your roof safe from further damage. 

Ultimately, installing and properly maintaining a skylight can benefit your home in the long run. 

It’s essential to regularly inspect your skylights for any visible signs of damage or wear and tear, and installing a compatible skylight on your roof can help protect it from further deterioration. With proper maintenance, you’ll ensure that your skylight keeps your home secure and energy-efficient for years to come! 

When you’re preparing to sell your home, there are plenty of decisions to make. One of the most important is whether or not you should replace your roof before listing it on the market.

It can be tempting to put off a major repair like replacing your roof until after you’ve sold your house. After all, it’s expensive and time-consuming. But if you want to get the best possible price for your property, it’s often worth investing in a roof replacement before you list.

If you haven’t had your roof inspected lately, now’s the time to do so whether you’re getting ready to list or just exploring your options for selling in the near future.

A roof inspection can tell you if your roof is in good condition or if it needs to be replaced. Its wise to get a roofer of your choice to look at it before the buyers home inspector looks at it so you know what shape the roof is in. If the inspector finds any major problems, such as structural damage to flashing missing shingles, or hail damage, you’ll need to have them fixed or replace the roof before putting your home on the market.

Here are some reasons why it’s worth investing in a roof replacement if its needed before selling your home:

• Replacing a roof can help you avoid any hassles during the sale process. Buyers who are interested in your home will likely get an inspection of their own, and if they find a damaged roof, it may give them an opportunity to renegotiate the price of your house or even walk away from the deal altogether. A roof in good condition gives potential buyers peace of mind and reassurance that they won’t need to worry about any costly repairs or replacements once they have purchased the property.
• Investing in a roof replacement before selling is also financially sound, as it increases the value of your home. This makes your home more desirable to buyers, and can lead to a higher sale price in the end. Overall, replacing or repairing your roof before selling your home is an excellent way to ensure that you move through the process without any hassles, and with the best chance of getting the most value for your property. Especially if its a high quality Class 4 Impact Resistant shingle. A lot of insurance companies will give a 25% discount when you have a Class 4 IR shingle installed. It’s a great selling point. Talk to your Realtor about it if you are interested.
• A new roof can help attract more buyers and make your house stand out from the competition. Buyers are often willing to pay more for a home with a brand new roof that won’t need any repairs or replacements in the near future.

How much will a roof replacement cost?

Deciding whether to replace your roof before selling your home can be a difficult decision. There are several factors to consider when making this decision, including the cost of the replacement, the potential benefits of replacing the roof, and how long you plan on staying in your home.

Cost is obviously an important factor to take into account when deciding whether to replace your roof. The cost of a roof replacement will depend on the size of your home, materials used, and local labor rates. Additionally, if repairs are needed before the full replacement can be done, then that may add to the overall cost as well.

The benefits of replacing your roof before selling should also be weighed against the cost. As shared above, replacing your roof can lead to a higher sale price for your home, as buyers will be more likely to purchase a home with a newly installed roof. Additionally, replacing your roof may help reduce energy costs in the long run, as newer roofs are often much more energy efficient than older ones, which will be attractive to potential buyers.

Lastly, you should consider how long you plan on living in your home before selling to decide whether to replace the roof. If you’re planning on staying in your home for a while, then replacing your roof may be worth the cost and effort. On the other hand, if you are only planning on selling soon, then it might make more sense to do repairs instead of a full replacement unless there would be enough damage that a potential buyer won’t want your home because of the roof.

When there is a lot of homes for sale on the local market, or its what is referred to as a buyers market, the buyer can be pickier about the repairs needed and do. We do inspections and pre-sale certifications all the time. Be prepared in advance.

Replacing your roof before selling your home can give you peace of mind knowing that your property is in top condition and ready for sale.

All things considered, replacing your roof before selling your home can be a smart decision.

But ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if the benefits outweigh the costs. If you choose to replace your roof, make sure to hire a reputable local contractor like Denny’s Roofing who can give you a written estimate and provide references for previous roof replacement projects.

Once your roof is in good condition, you’ll be able to list your home with confidence knowing that you’ve done everything you can to ensure the best possible sale price and a smooth sale. Good luck!

As a homeowner, one of your main responsibilities is to take steps to prevent roof leaks. Without regular maintenance and preventative measures, your roof can start leaking as it ages, and that can lead to costly repairs or even replacement. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to prevent roof leaks from occurring in the first place!

Understanding Roof Leaks

Before we dive into preventative measures, it’s important to understand how roof leaks happen.

Typically, roof leaks occur when water seeps in through damaged shingles or flashing – the metal strips that prevent water from entering at the edges of a roof and around vents, chimneys, and other protrusions. When these protective barriers fail, water can penetrate the roof and cause extensive damage.

In some cases, damaged shingles or flashing may be the result of extreme weather events, such as windstorms, hail storms, ice and even tornados. These can put enormous strain on a roof’s structure and can cause holes or ruptures that allow water to get in.

Sometimes preventative steps – such as regular maintenance and inspection – can prevent roof leaks from happening in the first place. Making sure that your roof is free of debris, that shingles and flashing are intact, and that your attic has proper ventilation can all go a long way towards keeping your roof in good condition.

It’s also important to be aware of age and wear-and-tear. Over time, a roof’s materials may break down and need to be replaced in order to prevent water damage. If you’re unsure of the age or condition of your roof, it’s best to contact a professional roofing contractor for advice and professional opinion.

Signs That Your Roof May Be Leaking

One of the best ways to prevent roof leaks is to be on the lookout for signs that your roof may be leaking. Here are a few things to look out for:

• Discoloration or staining on interior walls or ceilings
• Mold, mildew, and odor in the attic
• Blistering paint on the exterior wall
• Peeling wallpaper
• Water spots or water trails inside the home
• Puddling or dripping during of after a storm

If you notice any of these signs or suspected roof damage, contact a professional roofer to inspect your roof and take the necessary steps to prevent further damage.

Essential Steps for Preventing Roof Leaks

Taking preventative steps to protect your roof is a must, and here are a few of the best ways you can prevent leaks on your own:

Make sure all shingles are in good condition and that no loose or cracked shingles are present.

As a homeowner, checking the condition of your roof shingles is essential to ensuring the safety and structural integrity of your home. Although you may not want to climb up on your own roof, checking for loose or cracked shingles regularly is an important part of maintaining your roof’s health.

Here are some steps you can take to inspect your roof shingles and identify any that may need to be replaced:

1. Examine the area near the chimney, vents, and edges of your roof for any cracked or missing shingles. These areas are especially exposed to the elements, so checking them often is important.
2. Look at the valleys of your roof, checking for any cracked or loose shingles. Valleys are the intersections where two roof surfaces meet, and if they’re compromised your home may be at risk of water or ice damage.
3. Examine the nails used to secure each shingle in place. Look for any that have pulled away from their original position, as this could be an indication that the shingle has been damaged. High winds can and do pull up loose shingles. They can also cause what are called “nail-pops” where the head of the nail protrudes up under the shingle and it pokes through the shingle causing a hole and possible water intrusion point.
4. Take a look at your roof from the ground using binoculars or a telescope. This is an easy way to spot any missing or cracked shingles without actually getting on the roof.

These steps should help you identify any potential problems with your roof shingles. If you have any concerns about the condition of your roof, it’s always best to contact a professional for an inspection. They can help you make sure that your home is safe and secure.

Inspect for any missing nails or metal flashing.

Inspect the nails used to secure shingles and inspect for exposed nail heads or any missing nails. Look for any signs of rust on the metal flashing, which could indicate corrosion. Check that all nails are properly sealed with silicone, mastic or a proper sealant to prevent water from entering the roof decking through the nail holes. Inspect your roof’s joints and seams for any gaps or separations. Pay special attention to the areas around vents and exhausts, as these are common spots for water intrusion.

To inspect for missing nails or metal flashing:

1. Start at the edge of your roof and work your way up in a zig-zag pattern.
2. As you inspect, look for any loose shingles or gaps between shingles that could indicate missing nails.
3. Check for any visible nail heads and inspect the metal flashing to look for any signs of rust, corrosion or damage.
4. Look in the corners of where the different roof slopes meet. There can be specialized flashing at these points that can come loose and cause issues if it pulls away from its original location.

If you notice any issues, such as missing nails or metal flashing, contact a roofing professional to inspect the roof and make any necessary repairs. This will help ensure your roof remains in optimal condition and can help prevent costly water damage.

Regularly clear the roof and gutters of debris and leaves, which can cause water pooling.

Clearing your roof of debris, such as leaves and twigs, and even bird droppings is important to keeping it in top condition. In addition to being an eyesore, debris collecting on your roof can lead to water pooling which can cause problems for your home’s structure over time.

Water pooling occurs when the rain or melting snow has nowhere to go because of the debris on your roof. This can create long-term water damage as the water collects and pools, potentially leading to issues such as rot, mold, and other structural damage. Bird droppings are acidic and can eat into the shingle if left over time.

Fortunately, clearing your roof of debris is relatively simple if done correctly.

Here are a few steps you can take to ensure that your roof is free from any debris and water pooling:

1. Inspect your roof regularly for any signs of debris accumulation. This should be done at least once or twice a year, but more frequently if you live in an area with frequent storms or your home is surrounded by trees.
2. Remove any visible debris by using a leaf blower, rake or broom to clear it away. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a dust mask, if needed.
3. A lot of people Install gutter guards or leaf-catching systems on your gutters. These can help prevent leaves and other debris from clogging your gutters and causing water pooling on your roof. And they are also prone to ice damming in the winter and can cause large icicles to form on the gutters also with ice dams that can damage the roof. To be honest, we don’t recommend them.
4. Have a professional regularly inspect your roof for any signs of water pooling or other damage.

By taking these steps, you can help keep your roof clear of debris and protect it from water pooling. If you ever spot any signs of water pooling or damaged shingles on your roof, contact a professional immediately to address the issue before it worsens. Taking care of your roof now can save you a lot of time and money in the long run.

Replace any damaged gutters and downspouts that prevent water from entering your home.

Replacing damaged gutters and downspouts is a necessary step for homeowners to take in order to prevent water from entering their home through the roof. It’s important for homeowners to understand the process of replacing damaged gutters and downspouts, as well as the steps needed to complete this task.

The industry norm for gutters is “seamless gutters” which are rolled out and created on site so that there are no seams to leak other than the corner joints. This is done by a professional. The gutters that you would pick up at a home improvement store are not sufficient to use on any property that you value. They just don’t hold up very well.

Here are the steps that we go through for new gutters:

1. First, we measure the length of your gutter or downspout and purchase the appropriate materials needed to replace the damaged area. There are choices of the thickness of the metal and also the actual size of the gutters. The common size is a 5” gutter. They also have 6” gutters if the roof is large and needs more flow to handle a lot of water coming off your roof.
2. The gutters are then mounted properly with “gutter hangers” to the fascia of the home.
3. We also make sure that the gutters are angled properly so that they will drain appropriately. You may see them slightly sloping toward the downspout to ensure proper drainage.
4. We also put an adhesive sealant to ensure that the joints and end caps will be securely fastened in place and be without leaks.
5. We then use snips and drills to put the holes in them for the downspouts so that they are accurately placed.
6. Finally, we make sure all of your connections from the gutters to the downspouts are sealed and fastened properly in order to prevent water leakage.

Replacing damaged gutters and downspouts may seem like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and materials, it is an easy process that can save homeowners from costly repairs in the future.

Check for signs of discoloration or staining on the exterior of your roof.

One of the key steps a homeowner should take to ensure their roof is in good condition and preventing roof leaks is to look for signs of discoloration or staining on the exterior. Knowing what to look out for can help you identify any potential problems before they become too serious.

The process of checking for signs of discoloration or staining is fairly straightforward:

1. The first step is to determine where you should check. You should focus on areas around the roof that are exposed to direct sunlight and places where water could collect, such as the valleys between shingles or the area near the eaves and gutters.
2. After determining the locations of your inspection, then you can begin to look for signs of discoloration or staining. These signs can appear as dark spots, streaks, patches, and/or fading on the roof’s exterior surface.
3. If your roof has any of these signs, then you should contact a professional roofer to assess the damage and make any necessary repairs.

At the end of the day, checking for signs of discoloration or staining on your roof is an essential part of keeping it in good condition. By following these steps and inspecting your roof regularly, you can ensure that any problems are identified quickly and taken care of promptly before they become too serious. This will help keep your home safe, secure, and properly protected from outside elements.

When it comes to preventing and repairing roof leaks, hiring a professional roofing company is always the best choice.

With their expertise and experience, they can identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues. Furthermore, they have the right tools and materials to ensure that the repair is done properly and within safety regulations. This ensures that your home remains protected from the elements and keeps your roof functioning optimally.

Another benefit of hiring a professional roofing company is that they can help you save money in the long run. By preventing or repairing minor roof leaks, you can avoid costly repairs down the line. This not only saves you money but also prevents future damage to your home and property.

Additionally, a professional roofing company can provide advice on preventing future problems and help you maintain your current roof in top shape.

Your roof is an integral part of your home, so it’s essential to take preventative measures to prevent roof leaks from occurring. By following the steps above and being vigilant about regular maintenance, you can prevent roof leaks and protect your home from costly repairs in the future.

If you do find signs of a leak, contact a professional roofer as soon as possible to prevent further damage. And remember, prevention is key – so make sure you take the steps outlined above to prevent roof leaks for good!