Yes — replacing skylights at the same time as your roof is usually worth it: the roof deck is already exposed, replacement averages $800 to $2,200 per unit, and doing both together keeps labor shared and warranties intact. Coastal Windows & Exteriors is a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor and a woman-owned exterior remodeling company with 7,000+ installations completed since 2011, serving 730+ towns across Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine with combined roofing and skylight projects.
Skipping the skylight during a roof replacement is one of the most common decisions homeowners regret. When the seal fails a few years later, you’re back on the roof—paying twice for work that could have been done once.
Why the Answer Is Almost Always Yes
- Exposed Deck: The roof deck is already stripped during a roof replacement. Adding skylight work at that stage requires no extra teardown or setup from the crew.
- Shared Labor: Labor, setup, and disposal costs are divided across both projects when scheduled together. A standalone skylight job later means paying those costs all over again.
- No Double Work: Reusing old skylights during a re-roof often means opening up the new roof later when seals deteriorate. That repair disturbs finished work and adds unexpected cost.
- Warranty Intact: Replacing both at the same time keeps manufacturer warranties aligned on the roof system and the skylight unit. Reflashing old skylights onto a new roof can void both warranties.
- Energy Upside: ENERGY STAR certified skylights can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 13% on average nationwide, compared to non-certified products. Bundling the upgrade delivers that return from day one.
- Age Alignment: Most skylights last 15 to 25 years. If your roof needs replacing, your skylights are likely on a similar timeline. Replacing both now avoids a near-term second project.
Bundled vs. Deferred: The Full Picture
| Factor | Replace Together | Replace Separately Later |
|---|---|---|
| Skylight cost range | $800–$2,200 per unit | $800–$2,200 per unit |
| Labor/mobilization | Shared with roof crew | Paid separately in full |
| Roof deck access | Already open | Must reopen finished roof |
| Warranty status | Both warranties intact | Reflashing may void coverage |
| Future leak risk | Low — new seals and flashing | Higher — old seals on new roof |
| ENERGY STAR savings | Up to 13% on energy costs | Same — but delayed |
| Overall value | Higher | Lower |
What Makes Sense for Your Home
- Top Recommendation: Replace your skylights when the roof comes off — it’s the smartest, most cost-effective window to act. Schedule a free Coastal estimate today and get both projects scoped together.
- If Your Skylight Is Newer: A unit installed within the last five years with no symptoms may not need replacement. Have a professional assess flashing compatibility before deciding.
- Worth Knowing: Professionals recommend inspecting your roof at least twice a year, in spring and fall. That includes the skylight perimeter — catching deterioration early helps you plan the timing before it becomes an emergency.
Planning a roof replacement? Coastal Windows & Exteriors is a GAF Master Elite certified roofing contractor, a distinction earned by only the top 2% of roofing contractors in North America. We’ve earned the GAF President’s Club Award seven consecutive years and completed 7,000+ installations.
Request a free roofing estimate from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
Browse our complete roofing FAQ guide from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
Explore our Roofing Exterior Remodeling Home Improvement Help Center.
Still have questions about whether it is worth replacing skylights at the same time as my roof? See the areas we serve and talk to your local roofing contractor.
Last Updated: July 2026
Sources:
- Skylight replacement costs between $800 and $2,200 per unit. Velux How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Skylight? Velux’s guidance on skylight replacement cost ranges for homeowners. (Accessed May 2026)
- Installing ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors, and skylights can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 13% on average nationwide, compared to non-certified products. ENERGY STAR Windows, Doors & Skylights ENERGY STAR’s resource on certified product energy savings for homeowners. (Accessed May 2026)
- Homeowners should inspect their roof at least twice a year, in spring and fall. GAF Residential Roofing FAQs GAF’s guidance on roof inspection frequency and maintenance schedules. (2025)
