Here are the most reliable signs that your skylights need replacing, not just repairing:
🔧 1. Leaking or Moisture Around the Skylight
If you notice:
- Dripping during rain
- Water stains on drywall
- Condensation between the panes
Then the seals or flashing may be failing. Once seal failure starts, replacement is usually the only long-term fix.
🧊 2. Drafts or Temperature Changes
If you feel cold air or heat leaking in around the skylight, the insulation or seal is compromised. Modern skylights are much more energy-efficient, so an upgrade often solves this.
🌫️ 3. Fogging Between Glass Layers
Double- or triple-pane skylights that get foggy or milky inside the glass have lost their insulating gas. That’s a strong sign the skylight is at end of life.
🌧️ 4. Cracks, Chips, or Discoloration
Aging acrylic domes often:
- Yellow
- Crack
- Warp
Glass skylights can chip or develop micro-fractures. Any visible damage is a replacement warning.
🧵 5. Deteriorating Flashing
If the metal flashing around the skylight is rusted, loose, or separating from the roof, water will eventually get in. Often the skylight + flashing should be replaced together.
🏚️ 6. Age of the Skylight (15–20+ Years)
Most skylights last 15–20 years. After that, issues become more frequent and repairs aren’t worth it.
🪟 7. Poor Operation
If your venting skylight:
- Won’t open smoothly
- Gets stuck
- Has broken handles or motors
…it may be time for a new, more reliable unit.
🏠 8. Roof Replacement Is Coming Up
If you’re getting a new roof, roofing pros highly recommend replacing skylights at the same time. Keeping old skylights with a new roof leads to mismatched materials and future leaks.
