Your skylight illuminates the room underneath it on sunny days. If you want to prevent it from damaging your roof while maintaining its appearance, you need to care for it properly. Spring is an excellent time for this.
Clean the Blinds or Screens
If you have blinds or screens on your skylight, vacuum or dust them. You may want to wipe them down with a sponge or bleach-free wipe.
Clean the Interior Glass
Clean the interior part of the skylight with a soft cloth or sponge. Abrasive sponges or brushes and harsh chemicals may scratch the glass. A mild glass cleaner will help remove all the smudges and dust without harming the glass.
Check the Flashing
Around your skylight, you have metal or waterproof material that seals the joint. It serves the purpose of preventing water from entering your home and protecting your roof’s structure. During the cleaning process, make sure this part of your skylight doesn’t have any cracks or bends and isn’t pulling away from the roof.
Inspect the Caulking and Seal
The seal is another layer of protection to prevent leaks. Over time, it may deteriorate. Check for any deterioration or cracking around the skylight’s frame and replace it if needed.
Clean Out Your Weep Holes
Some skylights have drainage holes that prevent moisture buildup. These holes can clog with dirt and other debris, which hinders them from working as they should. As you’re cleaning your skylight, clear any debris from these drainage holes.
Remove Debris Around the Skylight
As you’re cleaning the exterior of your skylight, remove any debris around, such as sticks or leaves. Any debris may not only wind up on your skylight and block sunlight, but these items could also trap moisture underneath them on your roof. That moisture can cause roof rot, create ideal conditions for mold growth, and contribute to leaks. All of this can lead to issues with the structure around your skylight.
Trim Trees Hanging Over the Skylight
Branches hanging over your skylight can scratch it if they’re too close. A limb could also fall on it. Cut any limbs hanging over the skylight to prevent these issues.
Wash the Skylight
Finish your spring skylight care by washing the exterior of your skylight using a mild soap and a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse it with clean water when you’re done. If you’d like, you can also finish this process by cleaning it with a paper towel and window cleaner.
Caring for your skylight will keep it looking nice and prevent damage to your roof at the same time. You’ll also extend its life and allow natural light to continue to enter your home unblocked. If you have any troubles, don’t hesitate to reach out to a roofer. Call our team at Forte Roofing to book skylight services in the Syracuse, NY area.