Roofing and Skylight Installation: Bring Light into the Home

What Homeowners Need to Know

Installing a new roof is a big investment, and if you’ve ever thought about adding a skylight, doing both projects at the same time can save time, money, and hassle. A well-installed skylight can bring natural light into your home, reduce heating costs, and add an upscale touch to any space. However, roofing and skylight installation must be carefully planned to prevent leaking and water damage, making it essential to work with an experienced roofing contractor.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what it takes to install a Velux skylight and a roof together, whether for a new construction home or an existing home. You’ll learn how the right materials, techniques, and roofing company can ensure a long-lasting, leak-free installation.

Planning for a Skylight and Roofing Installation on a New Construction Home

If you’re building a new home and want a skylight, now is the best time to install it. Since your roof is being constructed from scratch, your roofing contractor can integrate the skylight into the roof design for a seamless fit.

Key Steps in Skylight and Roof Planning:

• Choosing the Right Skylight Type – Homeowners can choose from skylight options like fixed skylights, which don’t open, or solar-powered venting skylights, which provide fresh air.
• Determining Placement – Skylights work best when positioned to maximize natural light while minimizing heat loss.
• Using Proper Roofing Underlayment – A high-quality roofing underlayment is essential to prevent leaking and protect against moisture.
• Installing Step Flashing – Proper step flashing and drip edge materials help prevent water from seeping into your home.

Why It’s Easier with New Construction:

• No Need for Roof Cutting – Since the roof is built with the skylight in mind, there’s no need for modifications that could weaken the structure.
• Better Waterproofing – The roofing company can install flashing and sealing materials together, reducing the risk of leaks.
• Smoother Installation Process – Skylight framing is integrated into the roof’s design, eliminating the need for retrofitting.

When working with a local building professional like Warner Roofing & Construction, homeowners can ensure their skylights are installed correctly the first time.

Planning for a Skylight and Roofing Installation on an Existing Home

If you’re replacing your roof and considering adding a skylight, it’s still possible to install both efficiently—but there are some extra steps involved compared to new construction.

Additional Considerations for Existing Homes:

• Cutting an Opening in the Roof – Unlike a new build, an opening must be created for the skylight, requiring additional labor.
• Reinforcing the Roof Structure – Older homes may need additional framing to support the skylight, especially with asphalt shingles.
• Matching Roofing Materials – If you’re not replacing the entire roof, your roofing contractor must match new shingles to your existing ones.

Installation Process:

1. Start at the Bottom – Before installing a skylight, the roofing company begins with the lower part of the roof to ensure proper alignment.
2. Use Chalk Lines for Precision – Marking the area with chalk lines helps maintain symmetry and proper positioning.
3. Install the Skylight and Flashing Together – Proper step flashing and drip edge installation are crucial to prevent leaking.
4. Apply Roofing Underlayment – A water-resistant roofing underlayment is installed to prevent water intrusion.
5. Secure the Skylight – The bottom edge of the skylight must be properly sealed to prevent future issues.

Why It’s Still Best to Do Both at Once:

• Cost Savings – Installing a skylight when replacing a roof avoids costly modifications later.
• Minimized Labor and Disruption – Since the roof is already being worked on, adding a skylight doesn’t require another major home project later.
• Better Integration – The roofing contractor can ensure the skylight is properly sealed with the new roof to prevent water damage.

For existing homes, hiring an experienced roofing company like Warner Roofing ensures the process is done correctly, reducing risks and maximizing long-term benefits.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor

While it may be tempting to attempt a DIY skylight installation, hiring a professional roofing contractor is the best way to ensure a leak-free and energy-efficient skylight.

Benefits of Professional Installation:

• Proper Flashing & Waterproofing – Step flashing and a drip edge are installed to prevent leaking and water damage.
• Compliance with Local Building Codes – A licensed roofing company ensures your skylight meets local building regulations.
• Energy-Efficient Solutions – A pro can recommend energy-efficient skylight options, such as solar-powered models that help reduce heating costs.
• Warranty Protection – Many manufacturers require professional installation for warranty coverage.

With Warner Roofing & Construction, you can trust that your Velux skylight will be properly integrated into your roofing system, providing years of leak-free performance.

FAQs About Roofing and Skylight Installation

1. Can a skylight be installed on any type of roof?

Yes, but the installation process varies depending on whether you have asphalt shingles, metal, or tile roofing. A professional roofing contractor can determine the best approach.

2. How long does it take to install a skylight and a new roof?

A full roof replacement typically takes a few days, while a skylight installation can add an extra day or two. Doing both at once streamlines the process.

3. How do I prevent my skylight from leaking?

Proper step flashing, roofing underlayment, and drip edge installation are key. Hiring an expert ensures these steps are done correctly.

4. Are there different types of skylights?

Yes! Fixed skylights do not open, while solar-powered skylights provide ventilation and can reduce heating costs by improving airflow.

5. Is it cheaper to install a skylight during a roof replacement?

Absolutely! Combining both projects saves on labor and ensures seamless integration, making it the most cost-effective option.

Warner Roofing & Construction Makes Skylight Installation Easy

If you’re thinking about a new roof and want to add a Velux skylight, the best time to do it is during your roof replacement. At Warner Roofing & Construction, we specialize in high-quality skylight options, ensuring they are installed correctly to prevent leaking and water damage.

Our expert team uses the best materials, including roofing underlayment, step flashing, and drip edge installation, to keep your home protected. Plus, with our knowledge of local building codes, we make the process stress-free.

Don’t wait until later to add a skylight—save time and money by doing it right the first time. Contact Warner Roofing & Construction today for a consultation and get started on your roofing and skylight installation project!