Avoid Leaks In Your Residential Skylights
Residential skylights are one of the most effective installations of not only bringing light and the beauty of nature into the home but also of increasing the value of the home. Skylights come in a variety of styles and finishes and are suitable for installation in the variety of roof and ceiling types, including flat roofs and shingles.
Skylights can be fitted in a variety of shapes and sizes, with rectangular and circular designs being extremely popular. The residential skylight can also be fitted for either manual or automatic adjustment. The aesthetic appeal of residential skylights is undeniable, however there are other benefits to installing a skylight. Skylights can also improve air circulation throughout the home bringing the attendant health benefits to the entire family. The newer skylights are also manufactured to be UV resistant and reduce the incidence of hotspots which have in the past been a problem. Residential skylights can also reduce cooling costs in the average family home through better air circulation and are especially beneficial to people who work from home due to the fact that natural light has been shown to improve concentration and reduce stress.
However, many skylights, either through manufacturing defects or incorrect installation are prone to leaking in extreme weather conditions. A skylight leaking can cause extensive water damage and should be remedied as quickly as possible. When doing roof leak repairs be sure to inspect your skylights. You might find that the roof is fine and that it is the skylight thats is causing the problems. Skylight leak repair should ideally be performed by a qualified contractor, however there are liquid repair kits that are available from hardware stores or from national chains like Home Depot which allow the homeowner to undertake residential skylight leak repairs as a do it yourself project. In some instances a skylight replacement dome will be required. This is especially true when the dome itself has become cracked or damaged through weathering.
Some of the older skylight types are prone to this sort of damage due to the fact that the material used in construction is not completely UV resistant and over time may become perished. If a skylight replacement dome is required the buyer should ensure that it is constructed of UV and scratch resistant material. In areas where there is severe weather damage can occur to skylights due to the effects of snow, hail, high sunlight levels or falling debris. Spending a little more on residential skylights, resistant to environmental damage will save you money in the long run. Water damage in homes can cost a lot to repair and should best be avoided if possible. If the area you live in has adverse weather conditions you may wish to purchase a polycarbonate or acrylic skylight as these are more resistant to damage than the older, glass types. Glass can however be made stronger by fitting it with a protective film which will not only strengthen the skylight, but in many cases will have a filtering effect as well, protecting the household from the harmful effects of UV rays which can fade furniture and carpeting.
Care should also be taken to ensure that the skylight is fitted by a qualified contractor and that a comprehensive warranty is offered covering both the skylight itself and the installation. Residential skylights can do wonders for your home just be sure to maintain them properly to avoid leaks and water damage to your home.
