Tip of the Week #6 - Cleaning and Issues with Skylights

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

Skylights 

Having one or a few skylights in your home are great for letting in more natural light, and can provide another source of ventilation. 

One of the main concerns with skylights is condensation. Since they are on the roof, warmer air will travel to it and if the glass is cold, it'll form condensation. Once there is condensation and humidity, it's a breeding ground for mold. 

To prevent excess condensation from forming on your skylight:

• Run your bathroom and/ or kitchen exhaust fans
• Keep blinds, curtains, and shades open to let warm air circulate throughout the home. 

Be sure your skylights are insulated properly, no gaps or cracks in the caulking and no damage to the flashing. 

Remove any dirt and debris away from the flashing, this can create a dam and cause much worse damage than a bit of condensation. 

Cleaning your Skylights 

Skylights are usually made of plastic or glass, and this will determine how to clean yours. 

If you're unsure about what material your skylight is made from

You can use:

• Dry mop 
• Liquid dish soap
• Cellulose sponge 
• Power washer (for the outside) 

Along with making sure your windows will be safe, you need to make sure YOU are safe while cleaning. 

If you can't reach the skylight even with a ladder or stool, you can use a long handled mop! 

After your skylight is clean and dry, apply a thin layer of auto wax with a dry cloth, this will add an extra layer of protection. 

Cleaning the outside

With enough rain, your skylight could be "kind of" clean on the outside. But once you clean the inside, you will be able to see those water streaks and dirt on the outside. 

To get the best results, you'll have to get on the roof. You can use the same products and methods you used on the inside, but if you have a power washer, this'll make your job easier and a lot faster! 

Fill your power washer with a mixture of dish soap and water. Spray the windows until dirt and any other debris are gone.

Then switch the washer to non soapy water and spray til the soap suds are gone! Once they are dry, go ahead with the auto wax on the outside too! 

Once they're clean you'll be able to enjoy that beautiful blue sky and sunshine clear as day!

If unfortunately you suffer from a water loss due to a failure with a skylight, call us (508) 223-0505, we'll make it "Like it never even happened."