Along with the beauty and illumination they add to homes, skylights present some unique challenges. Maintaining them before and after winter is essential to prevent damage and ensure your home remains warm and bright during the colder months. Nevertheless, skylight installation professionals can help with inspection, upkeep, and repair.
Augustine Roofing provides tailored residential skylight, roofing, siding, and more services for homeowners in South Riding, VA. We don’t just fill orders; we ensure homes stay comfortable and energy-efficient all year round. Indeed, our team offers convenient financing options to ensure you can keep your home safe and protected from the elements. Call (703) 281-7663 for service details and request a free roofing project estimate!
Here, essential skylight maintenance tips and specifics on how our team can help:
Clean Skylights Regularly
The first and simplest step to maintaining your skylights’ integrity and functionality is keeping them clean. Debris like leaves, dirt, and snow can accumulate on the glass, blocking natural light and scratching or damaging the surface. However, regularly cleaning your skylights will maximize light entry and prevent the buildup of ice and snow—among the most common causes of leaks and water damage.
Inspect for Leaks Before Winter
In the weeks before winter, hire a professional to inspect your skylights for any signs of leaks. Check the seals and flashing around the windows for cracks or gaps where water could enter. Addressing these issues before they escalate can prevent water damage to your home’s interior.
Ensure Proper Insulation
Skylight insulation prevents indoor heating loss throughout the year, but this function is critical during winter. Sufficient insulation also helps reduce your heating costs. A professional can check that the area around your skylights is sealed correctly to prevent drafts and energy loss.
Prevent Ice Dam Formation
Ice dams form when radiant heat from your home melts accumulated snow and ice, which trickle down and refreeze along the roof’s edges and around skylights. This process can lead to severe water damage and moisture infiltration. However, you can prevent ice dams by keeping your attic well-ventilated and the roof temperature uniform. Heating cables around your skylights can also forestall these formations and protect your roof’s structural integrity.
Check and Repair Weather Sealants
The weather sealants around your skylights must be strong enough to withstand harsh winter weather. They can crack or become brittle over time, so have a professional check the sealants and apply new ones before the cold weather arrives.
Clear Snow Accumulation Promptly
Finally, you must clear snow from your skylights after each snowfall to prevent excessive weight and stress on the glass. Accumulated snow can lead to cracks or even breakage if not addressed. So, use a roof rake with a soft attachment to remove snow safely without damaging the skylight’s surface, ensuring the glass remains clear and functional.
Professional Skylight Installation and Inspection in South Riding, VA
Augustine Roofing proudly offers skylight installation and maintenance throughout South Riding, VA. Even with winter well underway, you can take steps to protect your skylights and roofing against the elements. Call us at (703) 281-7663 for professional assistance and details on our residential roof service options.