No! In fact, VELUX skylights disprove the phrase, “All skylights leak!”
So, why do skylights still have a leaky reputation? In the 1970s and 80s, with less advanced materials and insulation methods, these windows developed a reputation for not only letting in an abundance of light, but an abundance of rainwater as well. Skylights at that time were primarily plastic, but VELUX was already working to change the game with glass skylights that were designed and built not to leak.
Then in the early 2000s, the perception of skylights underwent significant redevelopment. Glass skylights became the popular choice over plastic domes, and savvy manufacturers like VELUX took on the challenge to stop the new main cause of leaks: improper installation.
Today’s Main Cause: The Installation
Whether it’s a simple mistake of not cutting the hole in your roof to the correct rough openings of the skylight, purchasing the wrong-sized skylight, or not using the proper flashing for the unit, an ill-fitting skylight will cause the unit to leak. VELUX focuses on developing products that help eliminate mistakes in installation, like our three-layer flashing kits that pair with our skylights, designed to be easy to install and offer weathertight protection against leaks. Installing VELUX flashing with your skylight also ensures you’re eligible for our industry-leading, 10-year protection warranty.
Other Reasons for a Leaky Skylight
A poorly handled installation can set your skylight up for waterproof failure, but there are other ways to cause enough damage that a skylight will start to leak. Hail can cause damage to the glass where water can flow through. VELUX accounts for harsh or unpredictable weather in our warranty, and we also offer advanced glazings and impact glass options to give your skylight the best protection against inclement weather.
Reroofing around an existing skylight can also cause a leak-proof skylight to start letting in water. The scraping and hammering that comes with removing and replacing shingles or tiles can jostle the skylight in its frame, which can lead to breaks in the flashing and weatherproofing. The best thing to do in this situation is to plan to replace your skylights when you replace your roof. This can help prevent leaks and coincide with your roof and skylight warranties for the best overall protection.
To ensure that your skylights are installed to be weathertight and not leak, make sure you opt for VELUX skylights installed by one of the installers in our network! Click here to find an installer near you.
