Quality skylight domes are made of polycarbonate and acrylic, but can be damaged in certain situations. So, how can you replace one of these domes, if necessary?
How To Replace A Skylight Dome
If you are looking to replace a typical skylight dome, use this step-by-step guide:
- Start the replacement process by drilling the rivet out.
- Remove all existing trims on the traditional skylight.
- Pull off the existing/broken skylight altogether.
- Replace the broken skylight with the new dome.
- Replace all the removed trims.
- Finally, rivet the trims back together.
How does the replacement process differ when it comes to a traditional frame and dome? Follow these steps:
- Remove either the screw or rivets first.
- Lift up the entire frame and dome.
- Replace this with the new dome and frame for a traditional skylight.
- Rivet the new dome/frame so it matches the old version.
So, what is the best way to replace your dome with a framed sky window and glass? Use these simple steps:
- Remove the dome and frame entirely.
- Make any necessary modifications.
- Custom fit your new frame window and glass.
- Rivet the brand new skylight window frame.
How Long Do Skylights Last?
On average, skylights will last anywhere from 8-15 years, according to Plasteco. Depending on overall quality of the skylight and installation, the lifespan can either decrease or increase. Here are two of the best ways to maximize the life expectancy of your skylights:
Perform Maintenance When Necessary: A tubular skylight will require some maintenance needs throughout its life. While it is not necessary to clean the light daily or even weekly, it’s important to watch out for any signs of damage over the years. Maintenance will generally involve cleaning the light on both sides.
Perform tasks to avoid any potential cracks or leaks from the skylight, as well. In most cases, it is the lack of maintenance upkeep that ends up shortening a skylight’s lifespan. Call the professionals for any maintenance needs!
Position The Skylight Properly: A skylight should ideally produce/allow a sufficient amount of sunlight through the transparent panes. Placing the skylight in the best spot possible in your home will enhance interior illumination and improve the aesthetics of the area, of course.
When installing the skylight, put it in a spot to maximize the light reception. If you wish for the highest light intensity possible, then position the light to the south. A north-facing position will offer more of a softer light in the home.
What Causes Damage To Skylights?
Inclement weather can cause all sorts of damage to your valuable skylights. Here are a few scenarios that can prompt a necessary replacement:
- Roofing Material: Some roofing materials will have the ability to absorb the impact of hailstorms, while others will fail. Metal roofing, for example, can be permanently dented by hail. Meanwhile, tile roofing performs very well against hailstorms.
- Hailstorms: The biggest potential risk factor here is the size of the hail. Hail can certainly cause damage to your skylights.
- Wind: Wind patterns can alter how hailstorms impact the surrounding area. Wind will change the speed at which the hail falls to the ground.
- Glass: Large and more intense hailstorms have the ability to shatter glass.
- Polymer: Most domed skylights can withstand smaller or medium-sized storms. However, most materials will be damaged during large hailstorms.
Skylight Installation In Phoenix
Elite Home Daylighting Systems offers tubular skylights and solar attic fan installation services to the entire Phoenix east valley. Service area includes Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe & more! Contact us for a free quote today!
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