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How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Skylight?
Average range: $300 - $500
Low
$100
Average Cost
$400
High
$1,925
(Skylight seal replacement)
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Skylights are decorative pieces that improve a home’s curb appeal, but like everything else in the home, they can have problems that require fixing. A common homeowner frustration is the appearance of a serious leak around a professionally installed unit. Even a small leak can cause water damage to the roof, the attic space, the materials in the ceiling, insulation, and the interior of the home beneath the leak. For this reason, when a leak is evident near a skylight, professional intervention is key.
On average, homeowners spend between $300 and $500 to repair a skylight. Most homeowners spend around $400 to replace the flashing and seal. On the low end, you will pay around $100 for a flashing or dome repair. On the higher end, you can pay up to $1,925 to replace the whole unit, including the cost to remove the old one.
Skylight Repair Price
| Cost to Repair Skylight | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $400 |
| Average range | $300-$500 |
| Low-end | $100 |
| High-end | $1,925 |
Skylight Repair Cost by Project Range
Low
$100
Flashing or dome repair
Average Cost
$400
Skylight seal replacement
High
$1,925
Total replacement with removal of existing skylight
Cost to Repair Skylight by Problem
Depending on the problem you have with your skylight, the price to repair it ranges between $50 and $1,700. They can have a range of problems. They are exposed to the elements from one side, so rain, snow, ice, and heat can damage to the glass, frame, or other roof issues. The most common problems are leaks, cracks, ice dams, mold, and heat loss. Here is how much you can expect to spend to fix each of these problems.
| Problem | Average Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|---|
| Leaking | $50 - $600 |
| Heat Loss | $50 - $800 |
| Mold | $50 - $1,700 |
| Cracking | $300 - $1,700 |
| Ice Dam | $400 - $1,200 |
Leaking Skylight Repair Cost
Depending on the cause of the leaking skylight, fixing it can have a price of $50 to $600. This is one of the most common problems homeowners have with this type of windows because they are tilted on the roof. Mainly, leaking issues happen when the flashing 1 between the frame and roof loosens or when the glazing seal between the glass pane and frame starts corroding. If these two areas get loose, water can start leaking. A corroding frame can also cause leaking. To fix the problem, the contractor will fix or replace the flashing, seal, or corroding frame.
Skylight Heat Loss
Solving heat loss has a price between $50 for minor flashing reparation and $800 if new sealing and flashing are applied at the same time. While skylights provide daylight and ventilation to your home, they can cause unwanted heat in summer to enter the home and a loss of heat from the home during winter. The most common methods applied by professionals include resealing the unit, fixing the metal flashing, and, in some cases, weather stripping.
If you want to solve this issue, you may apply insulated glazing, low-emissivity coating, or install a translucent insulation material between the glazing layers of the glass. To prevent unwanted heat gain or loss, the professional may also recommend window tinting. It is a method through which a thin laminate film is glued to the window for thermal insulation, UV ray blocking, filtration, privacy, safety, decoration, and more.
Skylight Mold
Solving mold issues has a range of expenses, starting from $50 for simple seal reparation up to $1,700 if the skylight is cracked and needs replacing. The most common reason mold appears on windows is condensation due to the difference in temperature on the two sides of the window (inside and outside). Mold can also happen for various other reasons. Water leaks, inner condensation, improper sealing, or cracks can cause water to seep into the window or interior and mold to form as a result. The professional hired to clear the mold will first determine the cause of the mold. Depending on the cause, they will fix the seal, replace the flashing, or if the cause is a cracked glass, they may replace the whole glass. If left untreated, mold can cause other problems for the house structure and air quality. If you notice the mold has spread to other areas of the ceiling or other parts of the home, you may have to hire mold remediation services. They will inspect where the mold has spread and remove it from every part to ensure it is completely eradicated and the house is safe for everyone’s health.
Cracked Skylight Repair
A cracked glass can be fixed for $300 for a broken seal and up to $1,700 if the glass is cracked and requires a whole glass replacement. Cracked glass can be temporarily fixed with silicone caulking 2 and weather tape. However, this is a temporary fix and will only stop the current leak from causing further water damage to the roof, ceiling, and interior of your home. The cracked glass would still need to be fully replaced eventually.
Skylight Ice Dam
Cleaning ice dams from skylights is a very dangerous job, so they usually have a price of $400 to $1,200 depending on the time needed to clear up the ice from a single unit. If you live in areas with a cold climate, your roof area may have ice dams. The difference in outdoor and indoor temperature causes the snow that falls to melt and freeze again during the night. This forms ice dams that can be dangerous and cause damage not only to the skylight but also to the roof. To solve the problem with the ice, a professional may climb on the roof and chisel away the accumulated ice. To solve ice dam issues long-term, make sure that your attic is properly insulated and ventilated.
Skylight Repair Cost by Type of Repair
The total price to repair a skylight ranges from $50 for minor flashing repair up to $600 to repair the frame, including both materials and labor. The type of repair will directly influence the price of the total project, as some repairs take more time and more expensive materials than others. This table provides more information on the price of various repairs commonly needed to keep them in working order and prevent leaks that damage the home.
| Type of Repair | Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|---|
| Flashing | $50 - $150 |
| Seal | $50 - $200 |
| Motor | $50 - $500 |
| Dome | $100 - $200 |
| Frame | $150 - $600 |
Skylight Flashing Repair
If the contractor can repair the flashing without replacing it, the average price is $50 to $150. Instead of replacing the flashing, contractors may opt to seal the gaps or holes in the flashing with roofing cement. To repair the flashing, your contractor will use caulking and tape. Some advanced versions may involve using specialized foam. Repairing the flashing is required to solve problems with air leaks, heat loss, and mold. However, if you have a problem with water leaks, repairing the flashing will not work, but new flashing will be needed.
Skylight Seal Repair
If the professional can repair the seal, it will have a price of $50 to $200. A broken seal can lead to unwanted air or water leaks along with heat loss. The glazing seal may be corroded, which causes water and moist air to leak into the interior of the glass frame. Instead of repairing the seal, most contractors opt to replace the whole seal. However, if the broken seal has caused water and moisture to seep between the glass panels, replacing the whole skylight may be the only option.
Skylight Motor Repair
Three general levels of motor repair include simple battery replacement for around $50, minor parts replacement, which can range from $100 to $300, or total motor replacement ranging from $150 to $500. The motor is used to open and close the skylight mechanism, and when it has issues, some part usually requires replacing. The exact price to get the motor back running depends on which part needs repairing or replacing. Keep in mind that if the motor has some electrical issues and requires new wiring, you need to hire an electrician.
Skylight Dome Repair
Although many contractors may not offer this service, the average price for dome repair is between $100 and $200. The contractor may also repair the dome using silicone caulking and weather tape. While this fix is not ideal or permanent, it stops a leak and prevents further water damage to the roof, ceiling, or interior of the home. However, the dome will still need to be replaced.
Skylight Frame Repair
The price to repair the frame depends on the severity of the damage and the size of the skylight. The price ranges from as little as $150 for minor damage or a small frame to as much as $600 for extensive damage or a large frame. Like all windows, the frame corrodes over time and needs to be replaced once it has reached the end of its lifespan (expected to be at least 20 years). Skylights are installed on roofs, so their frames are exposed to the elements, which can cause them to warp, loosen, and cause leaks. If water or moisture are not caught on time, it may cause the frame to start corroding. If it has not caused much damage, the frame can be repaired. However, if it goes unnoticed, it may cause irreparable damage to the frame that would require replacing it.
Skylight Repair Cost by Replacement Part
Replacement parts range from $90 to $800, depending on what you are replacing. Sometimes, replacing parts is more cost-efficient and simpler to do than repairing them. There are also cases when replacing is the only option to repair the skylight, such as when the dome or glass is cracked. Your contractor will analyze the problem and inform you whether replacing a part would be a better option for the issue you are having. The table below explains the most common parts that require replacing and the price to replace each of them.
| Replacement Part | Cost (Labor Included) |
|---|---|
| Dome | $90 - $300 |
| Flashing | $300 - $500 |
| Seal | $300 - $700 |
| Frame | $300 - $700 |
| Glass | $300 - $800 |
Skylight Dome Replacement Cost
Dome replacement price ranges from $90 to $110. When the dome cracks, repairing it is often inefficient and only a temporary fix. For this reason, many homeowners choose to replace the dome rather than replacing the whole skylight because the replacement project is affordable. If a gasket replacement is needed, it increases the price of the total project to $200 to $300.
Skylight Flashing Replacement
Replacing flashing has a price of $300 to $500. If it is leaking, it may require new flashing. This is because the leak may be caused by a crack in the flashing or deteriorated quality that is beyond repair. In these cases, replacing the flashing is the only option. By replacing the flashing, the professional seals off the seam between the frame and the roof, preventing any leaks or heat loss. Flashing replacement is usually done together with seal replacement and weather stripping in cold climates to prevent heat loss and improve the insulation of the home. The material used for flashing depends on your roof and the contractor. It can be a flashing material like sheet metal, plastic, rubber, sheet aluminum, zinc, or steel. Rubber or plastic can also be used as a cheaper option, but they are only temporary because they quickly degrade in the sun.
Skylight Seal Replacement
Skylight sealing or seal replacement alone costs $300 to $500 but typically also requires replacement of the metal flashing around the unit, which ranges from $300 to $500 and can help prevent heat loss. Replacement of the seal can also be needed if the quality of the seal has deteriorated and is beyond repair. Weather stripping might also be used in colder climates. If both services (seal and flashing replacement) are completed together, the total project ranges from $400 to $700. However, keep in mind that resealing is only an option if the moisture and condensation between the layers of glass have not formed yet.
Skylight Frame Replacement Parts
Frame replacement parts have a price of $300 to $700. Replacement of the whole frame is rarely done because it is designed to last for around 20 years before needing replacing. In most cases, the frame can be cleaned or repaired to bring it back to its original shine. However, a storm with hail, debris, or falling trees can break the frame or cause irreparable damage. When this happens, replacing the frame or the whole skylight would be the only option left.
Cost to Replace Skylight Glass
Glass replacement prices range between $300 and $800. It is the only efficient method for glass repair because other repairs are either temporary or inefficient for solving the problem. The glass is designed to minimize the need for replacement, which is most commonly required due to cracks, leaks, or mold. The edges of the glass are dotted with weeping holes to allow the condensation to evaporate. However, these holes fill up with dust and debris over time, preventing the condensation from evaporating and causing it to start dripping into your home. When this happens, there is no other solution than to replace the glass. If the flashing and seals are broken, it may cause moisture and condensation between the layers of glass. If this happens, repairing or replacing the seal and flashing will not solve the leak and mold issue, and replacing the glass will be the best option.
Labor Cost to Repair Skylight
From the average price of $400 to replace the seal, around $200 are the labor expenses, while the remaining $200 is the price for the materials needed. The exact proportion of the labor vs material price depends on the repair itself. Generally, professionals charge $50 to $100 per hour, with most jobs taking about one to three hours to complete. It is important to keep in mind that contractors typically charge no less than one hour of labor and may need to come more than once.
Skylight work should be done by a professional to prevent further leaks and damage to the roof, rafters, and home beneath the unit. Usually, roofing contractors and handymen are hired to repair or replace a skylight. If you call a repairman with concerns about your unit, they will likely come to take a look and make the repairs during the same visit if the repair is minor. To do the repair, the handyman or roofing contractor will first remove the roofing material around the unit and all the fasteners holding it in place. Then, they will remove it and the old curb (the box where the window is placed) and place a new one. They will lay down a sheet of ice and water shield (a seal) around the curb to prevent water and wind penetration. To apply the new flashing, the contractor uses the flashing material to cut custom pieces and places them around the curb along below the previously removed shingles. They will also clean the glass and apply a bead of caulk around the edge of the glass to reseal it.
Usually, the professional will do the flashing and sealing at once for a discounted price. If they do several minor repairs at once, you can save up to 20% of the total price. However, if new flashing, dome, motor, skylight, or other major parts are needed, they may need to order parts and schedule the repairs for another day. The price of the repair increases as the size increases, with custom sizes being more expensive than standard sizes. Similarly, fixed models are more affordable to repair, while vented ones are more expensive to repair. Some other factors that affect the price of the repair are the accessibility and the leak because the more difficult it will be to access the damaged area, the more expensive it will be to repair it. The roof pitch is also important. Those on roofs with more than 60% pitch require more custom materials and equipment to reach and are more expensive to repair.
Emergency Skylight Repairs
If you need to hire repair services urgently, remember that emergency fees range from $100 to $300. This price does not include the price of any repairs completed. Homeowners may need to request an urgent visit from a contractor if a significant volume of water is leaking into the home through a skylight over a weekend or holiday. The roofing contractor or handyman will charge an increased fee for working these days, increasing the overall project price.
Skylight Replacement Cost
The average cost to replace a skylight ranges from $400 for a fixed model to over $1,700 for a venting flush-mount laminated glass model. The average cost to have the existing one removed is around $225, including materials and labor. In some cases, the unit needs to be replaced in its entirety. This occurs when the glass is broken, it cannot be repaired, or in some cases, when the motor needs to be replaced and it is more cost-effective to replace the whole unit.
Skylight Maintenance
Periodic maintenance can help prevent problems, as well as catch wear and tear early, before any damage to the home occurs. The maintenance costs are usually incorporated into a roof inspection, ranging from $100 to $600. Maintaining a skylight consists of two components: cleaning and inspecting. Window cleaners can be hired to clean the interior and exterior glass with a mild detergent seasonally and will have the right equipment to safely scale the roof. Sealant inspections should be done three months after initial installation and then every 12 months thereafter. From the interior of the home, homeowners should monitor the site for problems like water stains in the sheetrock surrounding the unit or standing water beneath it.
Enhancement and Improvement Costs
Skylight Cleaning
Cleaning comes at the cost of $25 to $35 per window. Scheduling regular cleaning ensures the unit provides great views. It also prevents dust and debris from blocking the weeping holes that are essential to preventing condensation. Usually, companies offering window services do skylight cleaning, but at times, roofing contractors and handymen that do the repair may provide cleaning services as part of the repair package.
Additional Considerations and Costs
- Permits. In most jurisdictions, a permit is required to replace an existing skylight with a larger one, but repairing or replacing one without making any cuts into the roof may not require a permit.
- DIY repairs. While many homeowners elect to repair or replace their skylights without a professional, leaks and damage are more common following DIY work. Hiring a professional is the best route whenever possible. Most importantly, homeowners should review their insurance policies to ensure that damage resulting from DIY projects will be covered.
- Insurance. Repair and replacement are rarely covered by insurance as these projects fall into the same category as window replacement. If damage occurs suddenly, however—like in the course of a severe weather event—and creates an emergency in the home, insurance coverage may kick in.
- Warranty. Most units have a manufacturer warranty, so before scheduling a repair, make sure to check if your skylight is still under one. The company may cover the cost of the repair.
- Mobile homes. Mobile home skylights experience the same issues as regular units in a house, so they need to be repaired, replaced, or removed to prevent further damage to the structure. Its replacement ranges from $200 for a fixed unit, to $700 for a ventilating one.
- Condensation. Sometimes, noticing water on your skylight may not mean that it is leaking. It may be because of humidity in a room, especially in bathrooms. When the hot air in the room reaches the cold glazing, it forms water drops that may look like it is leaking, but it is just condensation. To prevent this from happening, ensure that the room has good ventilation or invest in a dehumidifier.
FAQs
- Can skylights be resealed?
Yes, skylights can be resealed for a cost of $300 to $700. However, if the leak has dripped into the glass panels, resealing will not work, and replacing the unit would be the only option.
- How much does it cost to replace a dome skylight?
Replacing a dome is one of the cheapest parts to replace. It costs between $90 and $300 to replace a dome.
- How much does it cost to fix a leaky skylight?
The cost to repair a leaking skylight is $50 to $600, depending on what is needed to fix it.
- Do roofers repair skylights?
Roofers, general contractors, window companies, and carpenters often replace skylights. Contact a company ahead of time to learn more about their experience installing, inspecting, repairing, and replacing them.
- Who do you call to fix a skylight?
You can call a roofing company, a general contractor, a window company, or a carpenter to discuss potential repairs. If you want to be sure the company you hire is experienced and knowledgeable in skylight repairs, take the time to read their online reviews and reputation. Hiring a reputable contractor is key to preventing future water damage or ongoing costs associated with repairs or replacements.
- How often should skylights be replaced?
Skylights have an estimated lifespan exceeding 20 years. They should be replaced when wear and tear has made them inefficient or ineffective in keeping water out of the home. In many cases, repair is an option, but when the glass is broken, the unithas aged out, or the cost of repair exceeds the cost of replacement, replacement is often recommended.
- How much does it cost to remove and replace a skylight?
If the entire unit needs to be replaced, costs can add up quickly. The average cost to have the existing one removed is around $225 including materials and labor. Replacing the skylight costs from $400 for a fixed model to $1,700 for a venting flush-mount laminated glass model. The larger the unit, the more the homeowner will pay to replace it.
- How do I know if my skylight seal is broken?
A leaky skylight is a sure indication of trouble, but it is best to rely on a professional to determine whether the problem is the seal or something else. Signs of a leak include water stains on the ceiling, water damage in the home beneath the unit, or a soggy roof surrounding it.
- What is the life expectancy of a skylight?
Skylights usually last between 20 and 40 years, but it does not mean they cannot have problems before that. It is recommended to schedule annual inspections to discover problems before they cause any damage to the house.
- How much does it cost to close a skylight?
In some cases, homeowners choose to close in a skylight to avoid potential water damage, limit light, or do away with annual cleaning and maintenance. The cost to remove it and replace the interior sheetrock and exterior roofing ranges from $500 to $1,000 including parts and labor.
Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet
Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.See full cheat sheet.
1 Flashing: Pieces of sheet metal used on roofs to cover joints, such as where the roof meets the wall, or around a chimney or skylight, to protect them and prevent water leaking through
2 Caulking: A chemical sealant used to fill in and seal gaps where two materials join, for example, the tub and tile, to create a watertight and airtight seal. The term "caulking" is also used to refer to the process of applying this type of sealant
How much does it cost to repair a skylight in my city?
Cost to repair a skylight varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.
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