Skylights on roof are a fantastic way to let natural light flood into your home, making spaces feel brighter and more welcoming. They don’t just add style—they also improve airflow and can even lower electricity costs by cutting down on the need for artificial lighting. But like any part of your home, they need proper care and, eventually, replacement to keep working as they should.
Over time, wear and tear from the weather, aging materials, or poor insulation can lead to issues that impact both your comfort and energy efficiency. According to Natural Resources Canada, windows, doors, and skylights account for up to 25% of a home’s energy loss. If your skylight is old or damaged, it might be a hidden reason why your energy bills are climbing.
So, how do you know when it’s time for an upgrade? Here are seven key signs that your skylights on roof may need replacing to keep your home bright, efficient, and protected.
1. Visible Cracks or Leaks in Your Skylights on Roof
One of the most obvious signs that your skylights on roof need replacement is the presence of visible cracks or leaks. Even small fractures in the glass or frame can lead to water damage, mold growth, and even structural issues if left unaddressed.
Vancouver’s wet climate is particularly harsh on skylights. With frequent rain and fluctuating temperatures, materials expand and contract over time, weakening the seals around the skylight. If you notice water stains, peeling paint, or mold growth near your skylight, it’s a strong indication that repairs may not be enough—a full replacement is likely needed.
Why Replacement is Better Than Repair:
✔ Modern skylights are made with weather-resistant materials that prevent leaks.
✔ Energy-efficient glazing improves insulation and blocks UV rays.
✔ Triple-seal technology in modern skylight installation enhances leak resistance and durability.
2. Condensation or Fogging Inside the Glass
If your skylights on roof have persistent condensation or fogging between the glass panes, it’s a sign that the insulating seal has failed. When this seal breaks down, moisture seeps inside, reducing visibility and compromising energy efficiency.
How to Know If Your Skylight Is Failing Due to Condensation:
🔹 Fogging between glass panes that doesn’t clear, even on dry days.
🔹 Water droplets forming inside the skylight after cold nights.
🔹 Mold or mildew spots appearing around the skylight frame.
This issue is especially common in Vancouver’s humid climate, where excess moisture can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and damage to surrounding materials. According to the United States Environment Protection Agency along with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), excessive moisture in skylights and windows can reduce energy efficiency and increase repair costs.
💡 Solution: Upgrading to modern, double-glazed skylights with advanced insulation helps prevent condensation buildup. Skylights with Low-E coatings further reduce heat loss, keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
3. Discoloration or Staining Around the Skylight
Have you noticed dark spots, stains, or yellowing around your skylights on roof? These are often signs of leaks or UV damage. Water can seep through weak skylight seals, staining ceilings and drywall. Prolonged UV exposure from old skylights can also cause fading on furniture, floors, and walls.
Vancouver’s frequent rain, wind, and seasonal shifts can accelerate discoloration. If left untreated, leaks can weaken the roof structure, leading to costly repairs.
Replacing your skylight ensures:
✔ Better UV protection to prevent fading.
✔ Leak-resistant designs that keep your home dry and damage-free.
✔ Long-lasting materials that withstand Vancouver’s climate.
💡 Solution: Modern skylight installation includes UV-blocking glass and advanced waterproofing materials, protecting your interior from both sun damage and moisture problems.
4. Increasing Energy Bills Due to Poor Insulation
Older skylights on roof can significantly impact your home’s energy efficiency. If your skylight isn’t properly insulated, it allows heat to escape in winter and unwanted warmth to enter in summer, forcing your HVAC system to work harder.
According to Natural Resources Canada, inefficient windows and skylights can increase heating and cooling loads by 10-25% and sometimes up to 35%. If your energy bills have been rising without an obvious reason, your skylight could be a hidden culprit.
Signs Your Skylight is Reducing Energy Efficiency:
❌ Drafts or temperature fluctuations near the skylight.
❌ Increased heating or cooling use, even in mild weather.
❌ Old glazing or single-pane glass allowing heat loss.
💡 Solution: Upgrading to double-glazed, energy-efficient skylights with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings can improve insulation, prevent heat loss, and reduce energy costs in the long run. A well-insulated skylight keeps your home comfortable year-round while lowering your utility bills.
5. Drafts Around the Skylight
Do you feel a breeze near your skylight even when it’s closed? Skylights on roof should be airtight, preventing air leaks that affect indoor comfort. If you’re noticing drafts, it’s a clear sign of seal failure, warped framing, or deteriorating insulation.
Over time, materials like rubber seals and flashing degrade due to temperature changes, roof shifting, and prolonged exposure to wind and rain. This allows cold air in winter and hot air in summer to seep in, making your home less energy-efficient.
Why replacement is necessary:
✔ Eliminates air leaks, improving home comfort and insulation.
✔ Modern skylights have superior sealing technology to prevent heat loss.
💡 Solution: While skylights repair may offer a temporary fix, replacing your skylight with an airtight, energy-efficient model ensures long-term performance and reduced energy costs.
6. Difficulty Opening or Closing the Skylight
If your skylights on roof are hard to open or close, it could be due to:
🔹 Warped frames from years of exposure.
🔹 Mechanical failure in motorized skylights.
🔹 Stiff hinges or tracks preventing smooth operation.
A skylight that doesn’t close properly is a serious risk—it can let in rain, cold air, and pests. While minor repairs may work temporarily, replacing an aging skylight ensures long-term functionality and ease of use.
7. Your Skylight is Over 15 Years Old
How long has your skylight been on your roof? If it’s 15-20 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Older skylights:
❌ Lack energy-efficient features, increasing heating/cooling costs.
❌ Have weakened seals, making them prone to leaks.
❌ May not have UV protection, causing interior fading.
According to CMHC, older skylights should be evaluated every 10-15 years for wear and energy efficiency. If your skylight has noticeable aging signs, investing in a new, energy-efficient model will improve comfort and reduce maintenance costs.
💡 Solution: Upgrading to energy-efficient skylights Velux models can improve comfort, durability, and long-term savings.
Conclusion
Your skylights on roof are more than just a design feature—they impact energy efficiency, home protection, and indoor comfort. If you notice cracks, leaks, drafts, condensation, or rising energy bills, don’t ignore these warning signs.
Replacing outdated skylights with modern, high-performance options can:
✅ Lower energy costs with improved insulation.
✅ Prevent water damage with leak-proof designs.
✅ Enhance comfort by eliminating drafts and temperature fluctuations.
Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of your skylight and preventing future problems. For tips on keeping your skylights in great condition and extending their lifespan, check out 7 Smart Tips for Maintaining Skylights on Roof.
If your skylight is showing signs of aging or inefficiency, now is the time to take action. A well-maintained skylight ensures a brighter, more energy-efficient home for years to come.
