Should I Replace My Skylight When Getting a New Roof

Replacing a roof raises a common question: Should the skylight be replaced at the same time? This article explains the pros, cons, timeline, costs, and best practices to help homeowners make an informed decision when coordinating a skylight and roof replacement.

Factor	When To Replace Skylight
Age & Condition	Over 15 years, cracked, or fogged — replace
Roof Work Scope	Full roof replacement — consider replacing skylight
Flashing Compatibility	Incompatible or damaged flashing — replace
Budget & Timing	Budget constraints — delay until next maintenance

Why This Decision Matters

Skylights penetrate the roof, creating potential leak points and affecting insulation. Replacing a skylight during a roof project can prevent future leaks, improve energy efficiency, and ensure proper flashing integration. Conversely, replacing only the roof without addressing an aging or damaged skylight may lead to avoidable repairs shortly after the roof work.

Key Factors To Consider

Skylight Age And Condition

Skylights typically last 15–25 years depending on materials and maintenance. Signs of end-of-life include fogging between panes, visible cracks, condensation, and difficulty opening or sealing. If these signs appear, replacing the skylight with the roof is often wise to avoid immediate future repairs.

Type Of Roof Work

The scope of roofing work influences the decision. For a full roof replacement, replacing or at least remounting the skylight ensures new flashing and seals integrate correctly with new underlayment and shingles. For minor repairs or partial re-roofs, a compatible existing skylight may be retained.

Flashing And Water Management

Flashing is the most critical component where skylights meet the roof. Old or improperly installed flashing increases leak risk. During a roof replacement, flashing details can be upgraded to current best practices only if accessible — which usually requires skylight removal or replacement.

Warranty And Insurance Considerations

New roof warranties sometimes exclude leaks originating from existing skylights. Replacing the skylight during roofing may align warranties and reduce future liability for both contractor and homeowner. Also check whether skylight replacement affects the roofing warranty terms.

Benefits Of Replacing Skylight With New Roof

• Improved Leak Prevention: New skylights and flashings reduce leak risk at the time when the roof is opened or rebuilt.
• Better Energy Efficiency: Modern skylights have improved glazing and low-E coatings that reduce heat loss and solar heat gain.
• Seamless Installation: Coordinated installation allows the contractor to integrate underlayment, ice and water shields, and shingles without awkward transitions.
• Single Project Timeline: Combining jobs saves repeat labor and ladder/containment costs and minimizes roof traffic.

Reasons To Keep The Existing Skylight

• Good Condition: If the skylight is relatively new and functions well, replacement may be unnecessary.
• Budget Constraints: Skylight replacement adds material and labor costs; delaying it may be a financial decision.
• Historic Or Specialty Units: Custom, historic, or specialty skylights might be costly or hard to match and therefore retained.

Cost Considerations

Costs vary by skylight type, size, and installation complexity. Typical skylight replacement ranges from a few hundred dollars for a basic fixed unit to several thousand for large tubular or motorized models. When combined with a roof replacement, consider potential savings from shared labor and mobilization.

Item	Typical Cost Range (US)
Basic Fixed Skylight	$300–$900
Standard Venting Skylight	$700–$1,800
High-End Glazed Skylight	$1,500–$4,000+
Labor To Replace Skylight	$200–$800+

Practical Steps For Homeowners

Inspect And Document

Begin with a thorough inspection. Document visible damage, condensation, and flashing condition with photos and notes to share with the roofer. An inspection report helps determine whether replacement is recommended and supports warranty or insurance claims if needed.

Ask The Roofer Specific Questions

When getting quotes, ask whether the roofer will remove and reinstall the existing skylight, replace flashing only, or recommend full replacement. Request a written plan that details flashing materials, underlayment tie-in, and warranty coverage.

Get Multiple Estimates

Obtain at least three bids that separate skylight costs from roofing costs for clear comparison. Look for scope differences, such as new curbs, step flashing, or ice and water shield around the skylight.

Consider Skylight Upgrades

If replacing, evaluate upgrades such as double or triple glazing, low-E coating, built-in shades, or venting models. Energy-efficient upgrades can lower heating and cooling costs and increase home comfort.

Installation Best Practices

• Install New Curb Or Ensure Proper Curb Flashing: A solid, square curb with integrated flashing is crucial for water management.
• Use Ice And Water Shield: Extend ice and water shield at least up the roof deck around the skylight perimeter per local code.
• Follow Manufacturer Flashing Kits: Use manufacturer-specified flashing kits or certified installers to maintain warranties.
• Seal And Insulate Properly: Insulate curb interior to reduce condensation and use appropriate sealants to prevent air and water infiltration.

Special Cases And Considerations

Flat Roofs And Low-Slope Installations

Skylights on flat or low-slope roofs require specialized flashing and drainage approaches. Replacement during a roof overhaul is particularly recommended to ensure proper membrane integration and ponding prevention.

Historic Homes

For historic properties, maintaining original skylight style may be a priority. Consider restoration by specialists who can retrofit modern glazing while preserving historic frames.

Tubular Skylights

Tubular skylights have flexible flashing considerations and shorter lifespans for roof-mounted components. Replacing roof-mounted parts during a re-roof is often easier and less expensive than full unit replacement.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Neglecting Flashing Details: Poor flashing is the leading cause of skylight-related leaks; always verify flashing method.
• Not Updating Insulation: Failing to insulate around the curb can increase condensation and energy loss.
• Overlooking Warranty Terms: Not checking how skylight replacement affects the roofing warranty can lead to uncovered future issues.
• Choosing Based on Price Alone: Extremely low bids may skip critical steps like proper flashing and underlayment integration.

How To Decide: Quick Checklist

• Is The Skylight Older Than 15 Years? If yes, strongly consider replacement.
• Is There Visible Damage Or Condensation? If yes, replace it during the roof project.
• Will The Roof Contractor Need To Remove It To Install Flashing? Removal often makes coordinated replacement practical.
• Does The Budget Allow Upgrades That Improve Efficiency? If yes, replacement can be a cost-effective improvement.

Final Practical Guidance

For most homeowners undergoing a full roof replacement, replacing an older or questionable skylight at the same time reduces future leak risk, harmonizes warranties, and can save money on labor. If the skylight is recent and in good condition, dokumentation and a clear plan for flashing integration may allow leaving it in place while protecting warranty coverage.

When in doubt, request a written recommendation from a reputable roofing contractor and weigh the long-term costs of potential skylight failure against the immediate expense of replacement.