If your skylight leaks, cracks or fogs up between the glass layers, it’s time to replace it. Repairs are often a temporary fix, especially on an ageing skylight or one that wasn’t installed correctly. Glass skylights usually last 10 to 30 years, and a replacement gives you a fresh start with a new warranty.
Whether you’re looking at installing a skylight and want to know what you’re in for maintenance-wise, or if your old skylight is looking worse for wear, this is the blog for you.
Here’s what you need to know about skylight replacement.
Skylight replacement vs skylight repair
Here’s the deal, Roof Space Renovators doesn’t do skylight repairs. Why?
Firstly, we specialise in glass skylights, and replacement is both more commonly needed and easier than repairing it.
Secondly, repairs are often just a Band-Aid fix. If your skylight wasn’t installed correctly or it’s past its golden years, patching it up doesn’t cut it. Aging skylights and their flashing are often best replaced because repairs can often cause reoccurring problems.
Plus, we’re not in the business of fixing other people’s old work. It can get messy, literally and figuratively. Replacing your skylight means we start fresh—no previous issues lurking around, and no confusion about who’s on the hook if something goes awry. We are 100% accountable for our own work, start to finish.
Skylight lifespan and warranty
Our glass skylights are pretty robust and have a long lifespan. They can last anywhere between 10 – 30 years, and often even longer.
However, if you’ve got a skylight with an open and close function, keep in mind that the moving parts might have a shorter lifespan than the glass itself.
With glass skylights, you’re also covered by a great warranty. It depends on the brand, but all our glass skylights have a minimum of a 10-year warranty (only on the glass itself).
Polycarbonate or acrylic skylights often last between 8 – 15 years, becoming cracked and brittle over time.
When to say goodbye to your old skylight
How do you know when it’s time for a skylight replacement? Here are a few red flags:
- Noticeable leaks are a tell-tale sign. If you see drips or stains, it’s time.
- Cracks or obvious damage
- If you spot mould or condensation between the glass layers
Skylight replacement in Brisbane
We replace glass skylights across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast and Ipswich, and all the areas in between. We start with an inspection of your skylight, then talk through your options. We’re accountable for our own work from start to finish, so you know who to call if anything goes wrong. To book an inspection, contact our team. You can also read about our skylight installers in Brisbane.
Skylight replacement FAQs
Can a leaking skylight be repaired?
We don’t repair skylights. We specialise in glass skylights, where replacement is both more commonly needed and easier than repair. Repairs are often just a Band-Aid fix, particularly if the skylight wasn’t installed correctly or is past its best, and ageing skylights and their flashing are usually better replaced. A new skylight means you start fresh, with no old problems lurking and no confusion about who is responsible if something goes wrong.
When should I replace my skylight?
Replace it if you see drips or stains, because noticeable leaks are the clearest sign. Other red flags are cracks or obvious damage, and mould or condensation between the glass layers. If your skylight opens and closes, the moving parts may wear out before the glass does, so a skylight that no longer works properly is worth having inspected as well.
How long do skylights last?
Glass skylights typically last 10 to 30 years, and often longer. The glass is robust, but the moving parts on an opening skylight may have a shorter lifespan. All our glass skylights come with a minimum 10-year warranty on the glass itself, and the exact warranty depends on the brand. Polycarbonate and acrylic skylights usually last 8 to 15 years and tend to crack and become brittle over time.
What is the difference between glass and polycarbonate skylights?
Glass skylights last longer and carry a stronger warranty. Polycarbonate and acrylic skylights usually last 8 to 15 years, then become cracked and brittle. We specialise in glass skylights, and if your old skylight is polycarbonate or acrylic, replacing it with glass is a common upgrade.
Making the switch to glass skylights
If your old skylight is giving you more headaches than rays of sunshine, it’s time to consider a skylight replacement. If you’re just deciding on getting a skylight, look forward to decades of sunlight to come.
Want to know more? Contact us today to schedule an inspection or to discuss your options.
