How Long to Install a Skylight?
Skylights are a great way to add natural light to a room. They also increase energy efficiency and fresh air ventilation. They can be installed in the attic or on the roof. Whether you’re replacing an old, leaky skylight or installing one for the first time, here are some things to keep in mind:
A Skylight Installation Happens in Two Phases
The length of time it takes to install a skylight depends on how steep your roof is and how long the light shaft needs to be. It usually takes about half a day to three days, depending on the situation and the type of home you have.
Prepare the Roof
Before you begin, make sure that the skylight opening is not obstructed by wiring or plumbing. This will prevent it from leaking when you’re working on it. You’ll need to remove the roofing material around the skylight opening and cut through it, either from the ceiling or the roof. If you’re working on the roof, it’s a good idea to bring someone with you to help you hold onto the portions of the roof that are being cut to prevent them from falling into your house and making a mess.
Next, frame the roof opening using 2 x 4 boards. The length of the framing should match the width and height of your skylight, so be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before you begin.
If your skylight is a curb-mounted style, build a mounting curb over the opening and secure it with nails. You can use a sash nailer for this task, but it’s better to hire a professional to do the job.
Install a Self-Sealing Membrane
Once the frame is set, add a layer of self-sealing membrane. You can also use a plastic tape. This is especially useful if you have a metal or wood roof. Once the membrane has been laid, cover it with shingles and a piece of step flashing.
Finish with a Shingle
Once all the shingle work is done, cover the entire skylight with a shingle. This will seal any water that gets into the skylight from the rain or snow, and it’s also a nice finishing touch.
A Flat Ceiling Specification:
Unlike vaulted ceilings, flat ceilings do require more drywall work to build a shaft that leads from the roof down to your room in a way that directs light down into your space. Besides removing the rafters and rerouting plumbing, this can take more time to complete because the drywall will have to be painted to match the color of your ceiling area.
A typical VELUX skylight replacement is done in two phases – on the roof and inside your home. Depending on the circumstances such as roof pitch, interior light shaft depth and shape, and weather, installations can take between 2 and 4 hours. The inside work consists of removing the existing skylight, replacing the roofing materials, repairing any damage to the roof substrate, and replacing the flashing.
