Skylight Leaks: Roof Problem or Skylight Problem?

Most "skylight leaks" we're called to look at aren't actually the skylight — they're the flashing, the shingle integration around it, or an unrelated leak that just happens to run down to the skylight opening. Here's how to think through it.

The Diagnostic Questions

Where does the water appear? What was the weather like? Is condensation possible? Is there any pattern (wind direction, temperature, freeze/thaw)?

Signs It's the Skylight

Fogging between glass panes. Water tracking straight down from the unit itself. Visibly cracked or degraded seals. Older acrylic dome that's yellowed or hazed.

Signs It's the Flashing

Water along one side of the frame. Leaks tied to wind direction. Sealant separated at the flashing edges. Water appearing on the wall or ceiling adjacent to the skylight, not directly under it.

Signs It's Something Else Entirely

Water hitting the skylight frame after tracking from a higher point — a chimney flashing, a valley, or a compromised shingle field. Attic inspection is critical here.

The Fix Follows the Diagnosis

Repair the flashing. Replace the unit. Correct the unrelated leak. We won't recommend replacement when repair solves it, and we won't seal over a symptom.

Next Steps

Explore roof repair, our roofing services, request an inspection, or read about our work in Franklin, NC. Related: Velux skylights for mountain homes.