Skylight installation is rarely planned years. It usually starts with a homeowner noticing something feels off. The skylight still lets in light, but it also lets in heat, cold air, or moisture. These small changes are easy to ignore, yet they point to a skylight that is no longer protecting the roof the way it should.
This article on skylight installation breaks down the warning signs that replacement is the smarter long-term move.
Why Old Skylights Fail Over Time
Skylights are exposed to more stress than most parts of the roof. They sit flat or angled against rain, snow, ice, and direct sunlight every day.
In Delaware County, seasonal weather plays a major role. Freeze and thaw cycles, heavy rain, and summer heat all work against older skylight materials.
Common reasons older skylights fail include:
- Aging seals that dry out and crack
- Outdated glazing that no longer insulates well
- Worn flashing around the skylight frame
- Plastic domes that become brittle or cloudy
Even well-installed skylights eventually reach the end of their service life.
How Old Is Too Old for a Skylight?
Age alone does not always mean replacement is required, but it is one of the strongest indicators.
Most skylights fall into these general ranges:
- 10 to 15 years old: Early wear may begin
- 15 to 20 years old: Performance often declines
- 20+ years old: Replacement is usually recommended
Older skylights were not built to today’s energy and weather standards. Even if they are not actively leaking, they may be costing you money and comfort.
Clear Signs Your Skylight Needs to Be Replaced
If you notice any of the issues below, replacement is often the smarter option than patching or resealing.
1. Water Leaks Around the Skylight
Water stains on ceilings or walls near the skylight are a major warning sign. In older skylights, leaks usually come from failing seals or flashing, not just surface cracks.
Once water gets inside, it can damage drywall, insulation, and roof decking.
2. Fog or Moisture Between Glass Panes
Modern skylights use sealed, insulated glass. When that seal fails, moisture becomes trapped between panes.
This fogging cannot be cleaned or repaired. It means the skylight has lost its insulating value and needs replacement.
3. Cracks or Yellowing in Acrylic Domes
Older skylights often use acrylic or plastic domes. Over time, these materials become brittle and discolored.
Cracks allow water intrusion, while yellowing reduces natural light and signals material breakdown.
4. Drafts or Cold Air Near the Skylight
If you feel cold air around the skylight during winter, the unit is no longer sealing properly.
Drafts indicate heat loss, which can increase energy bills and make rooms uncomfortable.
5. Excessive Heat in Summer
An outdated skylight can let in too much heat. This makes rooms harder to cool and puts extra strain on air conditioning systems.
Modern skylights are designed to control heat while still letting in natural light.
6. Visible Damage to the Skylight Frame
Warped frames, rust, or separation from the roof surface are signs of long-term wear.
Once the frame is compromised, replacement is usually the safest option.
Why Replacement Is Often Better Than Repeated Fixes
Homeowners sometimes try temporary fixes to extend the life of an old skylight. While small repairs may help briefly, they often delay the inevitable.
Reasons replacement makes more sense include:
- Old materials continue to fail
- Repairs do not improve energy efficiency
- Leaks often return in new areas
- Costs add up over time
Replacing an aging skylight solves the root problem instead of chasing symptoms.
How The Weather Accelerates Wear
Local climate matters when evaluating skylight condition.
In Delaware County, skylights face:
- Heavy spring rain that tests seals
- Summer heat that expands materials
- Falling debris during storms
- Winter snow and ice buildup
Older skylights struggle to handle these conditions year after year. Newer models are designed with better glazing, stronger seals, and improved flashing systems.
How New Skylight Technology Improves Performance
Modern skylight installation offers benefits that older units simply cannot match.
Today’s skylights often include:
- Energy-efficient glass coatings
- Improved insulation
- Better UV protection
- Factory-made flashing systems
- Tighter weather seals
These features help prevent leaks, reduce energy loss, and improve indoor comfort.
What Happens If You Delay Skylight Replacement?
Putting off replacement can lead to more than just inconvenience.
Potential risks include:
- Water damage to ceilings and walls
- Mold growth in attic spaces
- Rotting roof decking
- Higher heating and cooling costs
Once surrounding roof materials are affected, repairs become more complex and expensive.
How Skylight Replacement Fits Into Roof Care
Skylight replacement is often recommended during roof repairs or replacement projects.
Reasons include:
- Easier access during roofing work
- Proper integration with new shingles
- Reduced labor costs compared to separate projects
Even if the roof itself is still in good shape, replacing an aging skylight can extend overall roof performance.
Expert Guidance for Skylight Installation in Delaware County, PA
New skylights are often the best solution when an old skylight begins to leak, draft, or lose efficiency. Aging materials, outdated designs, and years of weather exposure eventually take their toll, even if problems seem minor at first.
At Strath Haven Roofing & Restoration, we help homeowners evaluate aging skylights and determine when replacement makes sense. Our team focuses on proper skylight installation that integrates seamlessly with the roof and improves long-term performance. If you suspect your old skylight may be past its prime, visit our contact page to schedule professional skylight installation in Delaware County, PA, and protect your home for years to come.