Skylight repair across Oahu. Stop leaks around skylights. Re-flash and re-seal skylight perimeters. Prevent water damage. Best roofer Hawaii. Free inspection.
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Skylights bring natural light into your home, but they're also one of the most common leak sources on Hawaii roofs. The combination of intense UV exposure, heavy tropical rains, and the complex flashing requirements around skylights creates perfect conditions for failure.
When you're searching for a roofer near me to fix a leaking skylight, you need someone who understands the multiple ways skylights fail and how to properly repair each one. A skylight leak might be a flashing problem, a seal failure, a condensation issue, or a combination. Proper diagnosis leads to lasting repair.
Complex Penetrations: Skylights are among the largest and most complex penetrations in your roof. Unlike a simple pipe jack, skylights have four sides of flashing that must integrate with your roofing while allowing water to shed around the unit. This complexity creates multiple potential failure points.
UV Degradation: Skylight seals, gaskets, and flashing sealants degrade rapidly in Hawaii's intense UV environment. Components that might last 20 years on the mainland often fail in 10-15 years here. The acrylic or glass dome itself can also degrade, becoming brittle or developing micro-cracks.
Thermal Movement: Skylights expand and contract with temperature changes more than surrounding roofing materials. This constant movement stresses seals and flashings, eventually causing separation and leaks.
Installation Quality: Many skylight leaks trace back to improper original installation. Skylights require precise flashing work, and shortcuts taken during installation create problems that may not appear for years.
Understanding how skylights fail helps you identify problems and understand repair options:
Flashing failures are the most common cause of skylight leaks. The metal flashings that seal the skylight to your roof can rust, separate, or be improperly installed.
Step Flashing Issues: Step flashings run along the sides of skylights, integrating with each course of shingles or tiles. When step flashings rust, bend, or separate, water enters behind them.
Head Flashing Problems: The head flashing at the top of the skylight diverts water around the unit. If this flashing fails, water runs directly down onto the skylight and potentially into the opening.
Apron Flashing Failures: The apron flashing at the bottom of the skylight channels water away from the curb. Failed apron flashings allow water to pool and eventually penetrate.
Counter Flashing Separation: Counter flashings cover step flashing edges. When counter flashings pull away or their sealant fails, water enters behind the step flashings.
The Fix: We remove failed flashings and install new, properly integrated flashing systems. For coastal properties, we use aluminum flashings that resist salt air corrosion.
Skylights rely on seals and gaskets at multiple points: where the dome meets the frame, where the frame meets the curb, and where various components join.
Dome Seal Failure: The seal between the acrylic or glass dome and the skylight frame degrades over time. UV exposure accelerates this degradation in Hawaii. When the seal fails, water enters around the dome perimeter.
Frame-to-Curb Seal Failure: The seal between the skylight frame and the roof curb can fail, allowing water to enter at this joint.
Glazing Seal Deterioration: On dual-pane skylights, the seal between glass panes can fail, causing fogging and reduced insulation value (though not typically leaks).
The Fix: We clean old sealant, prepare surfaces, and apply new high-quality sealants rated for UV exposure. For severely degraded seals, skylight replacement may be more cost-effective than repair.
Curb-mounted skylights sit on a raised frame (curb) that elevates the skylight above the roof surface. Problems with the curb cause leaks.
Rotted Curb: Wood curbs can rot if water has been entering around the skylight. A rotted curb can't be properly sealed and must be rebuilt or replaced.
Flashing-to-Curb Separation: The connection between flashings and the curb can fail, allowing water entry at this critical junction.
Curb Height Issues: Curbs that are too short don't provide adequate protection against water backup during heavy rain. This is more common with flat or low-slope installations.
The Fix: We repair or rebuild damaged curbs using rot-resistant materials, then install proper flashing and sealing.
The skylight dome or glass itself can develop problems:
Cracked Domes: Acrylic domes become brittle with UV exposure and can crack from impact or thermal stress. Cracks allow water entry and worsen over time.
Crazed Acrylic: UV damage causes fine surface cracks called "crazing" that weaken the dome and eventually lead to failure.
Failed Dual-Pane Seals: Dual-pane skylights can develop seal failure between panes, causing fogging. While this doesn't cause leaks, it indicates the skylight is aging.
Impact Damage: Debris, fallen branches, or hail can crack or shatter skylight glazing.
The Fix: Minor cracks can sometimes be sealed temporarily, but damaged domes generally require replacement. Depending on skylight age and condition, replacing the entire unit may be more sensible than replacing just the dome.
Not all water around skylights comes from leaks. Condensation can mimic leak symptoms:
Interior Condensation: Warm, humid interior air meeting cold skylight glass (especially during cooler mornings) causes condensation. This water can drip and cause staining that looks like a leak.
Condensation vs. Leaks: Condensation typically appears during temperature transitions (morning, evening) rather than during rain. True leaks correlate with rainfall.
The Fix: Improving ventilation, using double-pane skylights, or adding interior treatments reduces condensation. If you're experiencing condensation issues, we help distinguish them from actual leaks.
Complete re-flashing is often the best solution for skylight leaks. Here's what proper re-flashing involves:
Roofing Removal: We remove shingles, tiles, or roofing material around the skylight to access the flashing system. This typically involves removing materials 1-2 feet beyond the skylight on all sides.
Old Flashing Removal: We remove all existing flashings, sealants, and any deteriorated underlayment. This exposes the curb and deck for inspection.
Curb Inspection and Repair: With flashings removed, we inspect the curb for rot, damage, or improper construction. Damaged curbs are repaired or rebuilt before new flashings are installed.
Underlayment Installation: We install self-adhering membrane underlayment around the curb and up its sides. This provides a secondary water barrier beneath the flashings.
New Flashing Installation: We install a complete new flashing system including apron flashing, step flashings, counter flashings, and head flashing. Each component integrates properly with the next.
Roofing Restoration: We reinstall roofing materials around the skylight, ensuring proper integration with the new flashing system.
Seal Application: We apply appropriate sealants at all critical points, using products rated for UV exposure and Hawaii conditions.
Quality Materials: We use aluminum flashings for corrosion resistance, quality sealants for durability, and proper underlayment for secondary protection.
Sometimes repair isn't the best option. Replacement makes sense when:
Multiple Failures: When the dome is damaged, seals have failed, and flashings need replacement, a new skylight is often more economical than repairing all components separately.
Age: Skylights over 20 years old in Hawaii have often exceeded their practical lifespan. Repair costs may approach replacement cost with less remaining service life.
Technology Upgrades: Modern skylights offer better insulation, UV protection, and leak resistance than older units. Replacement provides improved performance.
Code Compliance: Older skylights may not meet current codes for safety glazing or other requirements. Replacement ensures compliance.
Our Approach: We honestly assess whether repair or replacement makes more sense for your situation. We don't push replacement when repair is adequate, but we don't patch skylights that really need replacement.
Fixed Skylights: Non-opening skylights are simpler and typically more leak-resistant. They provide natural light without the complexity of operable mechanisms.
Venting Skylights: Operable skylights provide both light and ventilation. Modern venting skylights include moisture sensors that close automatically if rain is detected.
Curb-Mount vs. Deck-Mount: Curb-mount skylights sit on a raised frame and work with any roof type. Deck-mount skylights integrate more closely with the roof surface for a lower profile.
Standard Sizes: Common skylight sizes like 24" x 48" are readily available and cost-effective. Custom sizes are possible but more expensive.
Quality Brands: We install skylights from reputable manufacturers including Velux, Fakro, and Sun-Tek. Quality skylights come with better warranties and longer service life.
We provide skylight repair and replacement services across the entire island:
Windward Side (Kaneohe, Kailua): Heavy rainfall on the Windward coast means skylight leaks cause damage quickly. Skylights here face frequent water exposure, making proper flashing and sealing especially critical. We respond promptly to Windward skylight leak calls.
North Shore (Haleiwa, Kahuku, Laie): Winter storms test skylights with driving rain. Salt air accelerates flashing corrosion. We specify aluminum flashings and quality sealants for North Shore skylight repairs.
Ewa Beach and Kapolei: West Oahu's intense sun accelerates seal and dome degradation. Skylights facing south or west age faster than those in shaded orientations. We see significant UV damage on Ewa Beach and Kapolei skylights.
Mililani and Central Oahu: Central Oahu homes often have skylights installed during original construction in the 1970s-1990s. These aging skylights frequently need repair or replacement. We help Mililani homeowners decide between repair and replacement.
Waianae Coast: Extreme sun exposure plus coastal salt air creates challenging conditions for skylights. Material selection is critical for Waianae skylight repairs.
Honolulu and Hawaii Kai: Varied microclimates mean different skylight challenges by neighborhood. Coastal Hawaii Kai properties need salt-resistant materials; Makiki homes may face more condensation issues due to cooler mornings.
Skylight repairs may be covered by insurance depending on the cause of damage:
Storm Damage: If wind, debris, hail, or other storm events damaged your skylight or its flashings, repair or replacement is typically covered. This includes cracked domes from impact and flashings torn by wind.
Resulting Water Damage: Interior water damage from skylight leaks may be covered, especially if the leak resulted from a covered event. Even if the skylight itself isn't covered, the ceiling damage it caused might be.
What's Not Covered: Gradual deterioration, age-related seal failure, and UV damage are typically considered maintenance issues, not covered losses. A skylight that slowly wore out over 15 years isn't an insurance claim.
Documentation: We photograph all damage and note apparent causes. This documentation supports claims when damage results from covered events.
We work with all major insurance carriers serving Oahu homeowners:
State Farm. Allstate. FICOH (First Insurance Company of Hawaii). Island Insurance. DTRIC. And all other Hawaii homeowners insurance providers.
Each carrier handles skylight claims differently. Our experience with these companies helps ensure appropriate documentation and claim handling.
Extend your skylight's life and prevent leaks with proper maintenance:
Annual Inspection: Check your skylight yearly for cracked seals, deteriorated glazing, and flashing problems. Catching issues early prevents leaks.
Clear Debris: Keep the area around skylights clear of leaves and debris that hold moisture against flashings and seals.
Check After Storms: Inspect skylights (from inside and outside if safely accessible) after significant storms for impact damage or displaced flashings.
Interior Monitoring: Watch for water stains, drips, or condensation around skylights. Early detection limits damage.
Sealant Maintenance: Every 5-7 years, have a professional inspect and refresh sealants around your skylight. This preventive maintenance is much cheaper than leak repair.
Consider Replacement Timing: If your skylight is 15-20+ years old, consider proactive replacement before it fails. Replacing on your schedule is less stressful than emergency repair during rainy season.
We're not a roofing contractor. We're your local advocate who ensures you get the best outcome for your skylight repair needs:
Expert Diagnosis: We determine whether your problem is a flashing issue, seal failure, condensation, or something else. Proper diagnosis leads to effective repair.
Free Inspections: No obligation skylight assessments for homeowners concerned about leaks or aging skylights. We provide honest recommendations at no charge.
Repair vs. Replace Guidance: We honestly assess whether repair makes sense or replacement is the better investment. No pushing replacement when repair is adequate.
Quality Materials: We specify aluminum flashings, UV-rated sealants, and quality skylights appropriate for Hawaii conditions. Materials matter for lasting repairs.
Insurance Navigation: When storm damage is involved, we document appropriately for insurance claims and help you understand what's covered.
Independence: We're not tied to any roofing company or skylight manufacturer. We recommend what's actually best for your situation.
Why should I use Oahu Roof Support instead of calling a roofer directly?
Skylight work is specialized. Many roofers treat skylights as an afterthought or push replacement when repair would suffice. I ensure proper diagnosis of the actual problem, specify appropriate materials for Hawaii conditions, and connect you with contractors experienced in skylight work. I also help distinguish between leaks and condensation, which require different solutions.
Do I pay more by going through Oahu Roof Support?
No. Roofing companies include their costs in pricing regardless of how you find them. The difference is that I ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate repair. You're getting better results, not higher prices.
How much does skylight repair cost?
Costs depend on the problem. Simple resealing runs $200 to $400. Flashing repairs range from $400 to $800. Complete re-flashing typically costs $800 to $1,500. Skylight replacement (including installation) ranges from $1,200 to $3,000+ depending on size and type. We provide accurate quotes after assessing your specific situation.
How do I know if my skylight is leaking or just condensating?
Leaks correlate with rainfall; water appears during or after rain. Condensation appears during temperature changes (typically morning) regardless of rain. Condensation usually affects the glass surface; leaks appear around edges. We help diagnose which issue you're experiencing.
Can you repair just the flashing without replacing the skylight?
Yes, if the skylight itself is in good condition. Many leaks are flashing or seal problems, not skylight failures. We assess all components and repair only what's needed.
How long do skylights last in Hawaii?
Quality skylights typically last 15-25 years in Hawaii's UV-intense environment. Seals and flashings may need attention sooner. Some premium skylights with good maintenance last longer. Skylights over 20 years old should be monitored closely.
Should I repair my old skylight or replace it?
If only the flashing has failed and the skylight is under 15 years old, repair usually makes sense. If the dome is damaged, seals have failed, and the skylight is aging, replacement is often more economical. We assess your specific situation and provide honest recommendations.
Will my insurance cover skylight repair?
Storm damage is typically covered. Age-related deterioration typically isn't. Interior water damage from skylight leaks may be covered regardless of cause. We help you understand what's claimable and document appropriately.
Can skylights be repaired from inside, or do you need roof access?
Most skylight repairs require roof access for proper flashing work. Some seal repairs can be done from inside, but thorough repair typically means working on the exterior. We ensure safe roof access for all skylight work.
How long does skylight repair take?
Simple seal repairs take a few hours. Complete re-flashing typically takes a day. Skylight replacement takes 1-2 days including cleanup. We provide realistic timelines for your specific repair.
Can you add a skylight where I don't have one?
Yes, we can coordinate new skylight installation. This involves cutting the roof opening, framing the curb, installing the skylight, and integrating with your roofing. It's more involved than repair but definitely doable.
What if I'm not happy with the contractor's work?
Because I'm independent, I have real accountability. If a contractor in my network does inadequate skylight work, I address it and find resolution. My reputation depends on connecting homeowners with contractors who fix skylight problems properly.
A leaking skylight won't fix itself, and water damage compounds over time. Whether you're dealing with active drips during rain, water stains around your skylight, or an aging unit you're worried about, we're here to help.
Whether you're in Kaneohe, Mililani, Ewa Beach, the North Shore, Honolulu, or anywhere else on Oahu, we provide skylight repair services across the island.
What happens when you reach out:
Fill out the form below or call us directly. We'll contact you within 24 hours to schedule. Your inspection is typically completed within 48 hours. You'll receive a thorough assessment of your skylight's condition, clear diagnosis of any problems, and honest recommendations for repair or replacement.
Prefer to call? Reach us directly at 808-766-8023
