Retrofit a skylight into existing roof

last year

We are in desperate need of light in our main room. Due to a porch on the front and a sunroom in the back, all the windows are covered. A skylight would solve all our woes. But they have such a stigma for being a leaky nightmare. I have heard it's not a problem if you are replacing the roof, but our roof is only 5 years old. Is it possible to have one installed into an existing roof and not have issues? If so, has anyone have experience with Velux "no leak skylight" actually being superior?

Featured Answer

chispa

last year

Our first house, 25 years ago, had 7 velux skylights. No leaks.

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Comments (7)

millworkman
last year
last modified: last year
They can be added for sure. No experience with the Velux "no leak" skylight however. An experienced residential roofer should no no issues adding a skylight. My own opinion is most of those things like, one step, no leak, easi-fit, are all just gimmicks. If the installer is skilled it will not make a difference. If if they are not skilled I would not want them installing anything on my roof.
Jillian Owens thanked millworkman
PRO
HALLETT & Co.
last year
I have used regular velux skylights multiple times, including one over my shower that was put into an existing shingle roof.
Lafayette · More Info
Jillian Owens thanked HALLETT & Co.
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oberon476
last year
For my money, there is Velux and then there is everyone else.

Use a skylight-experienced professional roofer and you should be fine.
Jillian Owens thanked oberon476
M Miller
last year
I have a Velux skylight and there has not been any leaks in many years of having it. I think the best option for that concern is a skylight that does not open. Once you have one that opens, there is more opportunity for infiltration.
Jillian Owens thanked M Miller
PRO
Joseph Corlett, LLC
last year
Follow Velux instructions; no leaks.
Jillian Owens thanked Joseph Corlett, LLC
PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
last year
A skylight only helps during the day so you stll will need a lot more artificial lighting . I like all LED 4000K to get the same light as bright daylight some can go on dimmers if needed . I am not huge fan of skylights but thya certainly can be done by a good installer with a good product. Make sure you have some way to control the heat and the UV .