Can You Install New Skylights on an Old Roof?

Are you a homeowner interested in installing new skylights or replacing a skylight on your existing roof? Do you know whether a skylight makes sense for your home? Skylight-related questions deserve answers from a qualified professional like Quantum Roofing. A skylight can provide numerous benefits that make it a worthwhile investment.

Can I Change A Skylight Without Replacing The Roof?

Yes, an experienced roofing contractor can replace a skylight without installing a new roof. However, most experts recommend changing the skylight simultaneously with a roof replacement. That way, the professional can more cost-effectively ensure a seamless installation. If the homeowner elects to replace a skylight without attaching a new roof, they need to purchase a compatible skylight and use the proper procedures for sealing and flashing around the newly acquired skylight.

What Options Exist For Replacing A Skylight?

A homeowner has almost unlimited choices when considering a new skylight. Today’s skylights incorporate customizable features that align with a homeowner’s needs and preferences. Most major manufacturers provide a variety of styles (including fixed, vented, or tubular) and dimensions (such as arched, domed, pyramid, and flat). Additionally, skylights can be forged from glass, acrylic, or polycarbonate. Naturally, each option has its particular advantages. Ultimately, the final decision may come down to your home’s design and roof’s layout.

What Is The Skylight Replacement Cost?

The price to replace a skylight ranges between $1,000 to $3,000 (or more, depending on whether the homeowner wishes to include the newest technological features). Ultimately, the final cost depends on numerous factors, including the following considerations:

Amount Of Labor Involved

Every kind of skylight requires an estimated number of hours based on the relative difficulty. Additionally, a more experienced installer may charge a premium for their knowledge and time. However, a homeowner should prefer expertise over all other labor considerations. An improperly installed skylight will cause issues, including roof leaks and heat loss.

Complexity Of Installation

Installing a new skylight in an existing roof may require additional time and material expense compared to adding a skylight at the same time as a new roof. Often, structural modifications (including reinforcements) become necessary to ensure the skylight fits perfectly. Additionally, replacing an existing skylight in the identical location is generally less expensive.

Type Of Skylight Selected

Many window manufacturers produce skylights of varying dimensions, features, and styles. A more complex layout (such as a ventilated skylight) can cost more and require additional installation labor compared to a “simple” design (such as a fixed or tubular skylight). A homeowner should choose a skylight that most closely matches their needs and preferences.

Selecting The Right Skylight Dome Replacement Professional

Before hiring a contractor, homeowners need to understand their objectives. Making the wrong choice can have disastrous consequences. Here are tips for choosing the best fit:

Understand Your Skylight Needs

What are your goals? As a homeowner, do you need additional natural lighting in particular areas or rooms? Are you looking for more ventilation? Is your roof compatible with the kind of skylight you prefer? Facilitating a thorough analysis of your current situation will guide the path you choose.

Perform A Thorough Online Search

Today, most homeowners can gain a strong understanding of a professional’s reputation based on online reviews and testimonials via various websites, such as Google, Yelp, Facebook, and Angi (formerly Angie’s List). Carefully consider this evidence of customer satisfaction (or dissatisfaction).

Evaluate Experience & Qualifications

Look for an installer with ample experience adding or replacing skylights. If the professional routinely installs windows, they may have partnerships with reputable window manufacturers. Verify that they are licensed and insured. Avoid working with an unqualified installer without these credentials.

Discuss The Professional’s Process

Once you’ve identified a potential fit, contact the professional to review their approach. Arrange for the contractor to assess your existing roof to determine what skylight options make sense. Obtain a written estimate that outlines the costs for materials and labor, along with a projected timeline for completion.