How to Install a Skylight - Step-by-Step Skylight Installation

If you are thinking of replacing or installing a skylight at home, you may be tempted to do the job yourself. The articles available online might make skylight installation seem easy – something anyone can do on a weekend. The reality is something else. Here is a guide to skylight installation. Go through it and you will see how technical the job really is.

1. Plan where the skylight will be located – which part of the house needs extra light?

2. Check your local code regarding cutting and removing the structural parts of the roof.

3. Ensure that the skylight is right for the pitch of the roof.

4. After the location of the skylight is fixed, locate the rafters using a stud finder. Mark the locations between the rafter base for the opening you will need to make.

5. Carefully cut the roof to create a rough opening.

6. Use the dimensions of the new/replacement skylight to frame the rough opening. Once that is done, place a screw at each corner to mark the outline of the frame.

7. Remove all the shingles for about 12 inches outside the outline of the frame. Use chalk to snap a line to mark the skylight opening. After the outline is in place, remove the screws from the corners.

8. Use a circular saw to cut the opening for the skylight, using the outline to guide you. Secure the part of the roof being removed so that it does not fall into the house.

Also Read: Maintaining Your Skylight

9. Cut off 6 inches of the roofing underlayment all around the opening to have space for the ice and water shield to be fitted.

10. Use the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new skylight. The installation procedure will vary according to the make and type of skylight. Follow the instructions carefully and do not take shortcuts.

11. Install the ice and water shield, starting at the bottom of the skylight. Here too, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to the letter.

12. Install the bottom row of shingles. Then start interweaving the shingles and step flashing up the sides.

13. Replace the cladding around the skylight body.

14. If it is a powered skylight, sync the remote.

15. Go inside and replace any insulation that may have fallen out.

16. Repair any damage to the drywall.

Installing a skylight, as can be seen from the steps outlined above, is not a simple project. Unless you are a home handyman with experience in this type of major DIY project, it is wiser to leave the installation or replacement of skylights to professionals. That way you can be sure that the job will be done properly without any air leaks and your roof will not be damaged during the installation. Repairing a damaged roof or a badly installed skylight is far more complex and costlier than the original project. Calling a company that specializes in skylight installation and replacement is a safe and cost-effective option.