While skylights can last a long time, there may come a day where you wish to replace or remove the skylight.
Skylight Removal Steps
Follow these four simple steps below to properly remove your skylight.
Step 1
- Find the edge of the shingles surrounding the bottom of the skylight.
- Lift these shingles up.
- Use a hammer and nails to tack a 4-foot long part of a 2-by-4 where the shingles lay on the roofing.
- Use a board to brace your feet while performing this step.
Step 2
- Next, remove all shingles that surround the skylight.
- Slip a putty knife between each shingle you are removing and the shingles that may overlap them.
- Using the claw of a flat pry bar, lift the roofing nails that secure the shingles.
Step 3
- Locate brackets that may be securing the skylight to the roofing.
- Pry the brackets away from the roofing with the help of your pry bar.
- Pry carefully to avoid causing any damage.
- The skylights should rise up when prying the brackets free.
- Place a pry bar at the bottom frame of the skylight and roofing, prying upwards, if there are no brackets.
Step 4
- Remove the skylight entirely from the roof opening.
Necessary Tools For Removing A Skylight
Make sure you have these tools to perform the removal:
- Roof bracket
- Flat pry bar
- Utility knife
- Fall protection harness
- Power drill or screwdriver
- Staging plank
How Long Do Skylights Last?
According to Plasteco, skylights will last an average of 8-15 years. Of course, the lifespan can either increase or decrease depending on the quality of the skylight and installation. These are the two best ways to maximize the life expectancy of your skylights:
Perform Routine Maintenance: Tubular skylights will have some maintenance needs during a lifetime. It’s important to watch for any signs of damage throughout the years. However, there is no need to check the skylights daily or even monthly. Typically, maintenance simply involves cleaning the lights on both sides.
Position Skylight Properly: Ideally, a skylight should allow a sufficient amount of sunlight through the transparent panes. Make sure you ask the professionals to place your skylight in the best possible spot to maximize sunlight exposure inside the home.
GoGreen Daylight Systems, LLC In Surprise, Arizona
GoGreen Daylight Systems, LLC is a Skylight contractor and installer of top-quality Tube Skylights, Traditional Skylights, Solar Attic Fans, and Garage Fans in Phoenix, the West Valley and East Valley. Contact us today for a free quote!
