Skylights and vents can add natural light, ventilation, and aesthetic appeal to your roof, but they also require careful installation and flashing to prevent leaks and damage. In this article, we will share some of the best practices for installing and flashing skylights and vents on your roof, based on our experience in the construction industry.
Before you install skylights or vents, you need to decide what type and size you want, and where to place them on your roof. There are different types of skylights, such as fixed, vented, tubular, or solar-powered, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. You also need to consider the slope, orientation, and structure of your roof, as well as the climate and building codes in your area. Ideally, you want to choose a location that maximizes the light and airflow, but minimizes the heat loss and water intrusion.
Don't forget to plan for future solar array locations. Solar panels are typically 18-25 square feet in size and allowing for proper spacing between skylights is important.
There are several types of roof vents available, each serving different purposes and catering to specific needs: 1. Ridge vents: These vents are installed along the peak of the roof and seamlessly blend with the roofing material. They provide discreet and efficient ventilation. 2. Soffit vents: Located under the eaves of the roof, soffit vents allow fresh air to enter the attic, preventing moisture buildup and excessive heat. 3. Gable vents: These vents are installed on the ends of the roof. They are popular for their traditional appearance and effective ventilation capabilities. 4. Turbine vents: Utilizing wind power, turbine vents expel hot air from the attic, making them an energy-efficient choice.
Once you have chosen the type and location of your skylights or vents, you need to plan and mark the opening on your roof. You can use the manufacturer's instructions, a template, or a chalk line to mark the outline of the opening on the roof shingles. You also need to mark the location of the rafters, joists, and electrical wires, and make sure you avoid cutting or damaging them. You may need to modify the framing or wiring to accommodate the skylights or vents, depending on the size and shape of the opening.
After you have marked the opening, you need to cut and install the skylights or vents. You can use a circular saw, a reciprocating saw, or a utility knife to cut through the shingles, sheathing, and insulation. You may need to use a pry bar or a hammer to remove any nails or staples. Then, you can lift and place the skylights or vents into the opening, and secure them with screws or nails. You may need to use shims or spacers to level and align the skylights or vents with the roof surface.
The final and most important step is to flash and seal the skylights or vents to prevent leaks and damage. Flashing is the material that covers the gaps and joints between the skylights or vents and the roof. You can use metal, rubber, or plastic flashing, depending on the type and shape of the skylights or vents. You need to follow the manufacturer's instructions, and apply the flashing in layers, starting from the bottom and working your way up. You also need to use roofing cement, caulk, or sealant to fill any cracks or holes in the flashing or the roof.
Usually skylights come with their own flashing kits unless it's a selflashing skylight, consult with the manufacturer for details
After you have installed and flashed the skylights or vents, you need to maintain and inspect them regularly to ensure they are functioning properly and safely. You need to clean the glass, screens, and frames of the skylights or vents with a soft cloth and mild detergent, and remove any debris or dirt that may block the light or airflow. You also need to check the flashing, sealant, and shingles around the skylights or vents for any signs of wear, tear, or damage. If you notice any cracks, gaps, or leaks, you need to repair or replace them as soon as possible.
It is recommended to clean your skylights thoroughly once or twice a year to remove accumulated dirt, dust, and spiderwebs. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to potential issues and damage. In addition to regular cleaning, it is important to inspect your skylights at least once a year, even if there are no visible problems. Some potential issues may not be visible from the inside, so a thorough exterior inspection is necessary. By staying proactive and conducting these inspections, you can potentially save thousands of dollars in future damage repairs.
Vents can be inconspicuous without their vent caps / fans. Frequently roofers rushing through a job will inadvertently shingle over the vent, blocking it. Once this happens the error can go unnoticed until after project closeout. Every vent should be flagged, pointed out to the roofers, and added to your checklist to verify proper installation.