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Q: I am getting my roof installed this month and I’m not sure–should I replace skylights when replacing my roof? It seems like my skylights were not properly flashed when my roof was installed 15 years ago because there’s water leaking in around the skylights. What should I do?
A: We get asked this question a lot. Most homeowners are not aware of the ways roofers cut costs when installing a new roof.
If a home has skylights, that’s usually the first thing that gets cut in order to cut down on price.
Sometimes customers even try to salvage old worn-out skylights so that they can save money, too. If you come across a roofing company that does not install new skylights when they install a new roof and flash them properly– it’s in your best interest to look elsewhere. Want to know why…read on!
Listed below are 8 reasons why should I replace skylights when replacing my roof.
Save Money When You Replace Skylights During Roof Replacement
Replacing your skylights when you replace your roofing system is the most convenient and affordable time to do so. Understanding the cost advantages helps homeowners make smart investment decisions.
- Is replacing skylights cheaper with a new roof? Absolutely—the process is smoother and easier when the roof deck is fully exposed, like painting your bathroom when there’s no toilet, vanity, or shower in the way.
- There are some roofers contractors near me who will charge up to double to come back and replace your skylights separate from replacing your roof.
- Older skylights don’t have a long lifespan, so if your roof is due, your skylights are likely ready for replacement too.
- Installing new skylights during a roof replacement saves time and reduces labor costs significantly.
- There are money saving Federal tax credits and rebates through Velux, and new skylights also can improve thermal performance up to 40%.
- A failing skylight can leak and increase humidity in your home which can allow mold to form—think about what that means to your brand new roof and the risk of serious damage to your new investment.
- While we offer a transferable lifetime warranty and 25 years labor, this covers your roof, not your old skylights—repairs aren’t cheap, and it’s not something you want to be pursuing 3-6 months after you just had it replaced.
Coordinating skylight and roofing work protects your investment while maximizing savings through reduced labor costs and available incentives.
The Risk vs. Reward: Understanding the Cost to Replace Skylights With New Roof
When you weigh the costs between reflashing and replacing, the decision becomes clearer. A slightly larger investment now prevents much larger expenses down the road.
- The cost of reflashing a skylight ranges from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on size and roof complexity.
- The cost to replace skylights with a new roof ranges from one thousand to over fifteen hundred dollars. The price depends on the skylight type and available options. You can choose fixed, vented, solar, or add blinds.
- If we look at a roof with skylights, the per-unit price difference is even smaller. Bulk discounts usually apply when replacing multiple units.
- A slightly larger investment in a new roof and skylights now will save money later. It will cost less than tearing up a new roof to replace old skylights in the future.
- In the end it makes your home more energy-efficient so it’s a win-win.
- The main purpose of skylight reflashing is to shed water and moisture without long-term sealants. Sealants eventually break down and may cause roof damage.
- Older roofing skylights often do not fit modern skylight flashing kits. This mismatch creates sealing issues and leaks. Many homeowners replace skylights shortly after getting a new roof.
- Your original skylights were designed for a 10–25-year-old roof system. New roofs often differ in pitch, rakes, eaves, and materials.
- Many older roofs used tar paper instead of underlayment. Today’s roofing systems require different flashing and sealing methods. Old skylights and new roofs usually do not work well together.
- During tear-off, the original skylight flashing can weaken. Skylights are semi-permanent and not designed for frequent removal. New installations can also weaken the skylight’s structure and performance.
- Reflashing a skylight can shorten its lifespan by years. Most manufacturers also void the warranty if you reflash a skylight.
When you factor in warranty protection, energy savings, and the risk of premature failure, replacement becomes the clear value choice.
Seal Failure
What happens if you replace your entire roof and don’t replace the skylights is a scenario many homeowners face. Seal failure is one of the most frustrating consequences.
- If seal failure happens six months later, you must replace the entire section of shingles around the skylight. Fogged or inefficient glass often causes this issue.
- All the banging, tear-off, dumpster in the driveway, permitting, and scrapping will happen again. Nailing, attic mess, and living in a construction zone will also repeat.
- Don’t pay for new roof materials twice!
Proper planning during your initial roof replacement prevents this expensive and disruptive scenario entirely.
Using Old Skylights With A New Roof Can Cause Leaks
Even skylights that performed perfectly can develop problems during roof work. The risks of keeping old units often outweigh any perceived savings.
- Say your skylight has performed perfectly in the years leading up to your roof replacement, but no matter how skilled your roofing contractor may be, ruffling with that old skylight can cause problems.
- Keeping skylights in place only to have them leak afterward isn’t worth the trouble, especially if disturbing the skylight itself can lead to leaks.
- Building materials expand and contract over time, and what many homeowners don’t understand is that you must partially disassemble the skylight to re-flash the skylight.
- This process can create many problems in the structure of the skylights if they have started to corrode.
- Re-flashing an existing skylight can void its warranty.
- Skylights can leak because of old or improper flashing, cracks on the skylight frame, failure to open and close the skylight properly, or condensation beneath the glass especially in humid rooms or cold climates (seal failure).
The incompatibility between old skylights and new roofing creates leak risks that even careful installation cannot eliminate.
The Skylight Will Have To Be Replaced Eventually Anyway
Understanding the limited lifespan of skylights helps homeowners make practical decisions. Technology has advanced significantly, making replacement even more worthwhile.
- Skylights have a short warranty for a reason—inexpensive plexiglass bubble skylights can crack easily, and even high-quality skylights will warp over time.
- Choosing to re-flash rather than replace can result not only in leaks and moisture buildup but also in expensive energy loss.
- Technology has advanced in the past 10 years and Velux, a brand we trust, has an advanced Low E-3 coating that provides more daylight and better heat control than older plastic models.
- American-made VELUX skylights are manufactured from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and tempered glass, offering a quality option for beauty along with energy savings.
- The most convenient and affordable time to replace a skylight is when you are installing a new roof with roofing installation near me.
- By replacing your skylights when you replace your roof, you’ll save money in the long run and ensure you won’t be paying for a new roof twice!
- You can also take advantage of the new energy-efficient models (there are solar-powered options!) and increase the thermal comfort of your home with natural ventilation.
Replacement is inevitable for aging skylights, and coordinating this work with your roof installation is the smartest approach.
Benefits of Replacing Skylights With Roof: Skylights Are Sustainable Products
Just like new vinyl replacement windows, skylights offer sustainability benefits. When combined with quality roofing materials, these advantages multiply.
- The skylight is installed on the roof to take advantage of the sun’s energy, making it ideal to help make your home warmer during the winter months.
- Skylights by VELUX adhere to Energy Star’s guidelines, improving the thermal envelope of your home.
- Professional roofing installation near me of skylights ensures that no drafts occur, resulting in energy loss—90% of VELUX skylight products are certified by Energy Star.
- With an airtight seal and proper installation, replacing a skylight while you replace your roof will help achieve balanced indoor temperature control.
- When combined with energy efficient roofing materials and energy efficient roofing shingles, the thermal performance of your home can improve dramatically.
An integrated approach to roofing and skylight upgrades delivers substantial benefits for energy efficiency and home comfort.
Choose From An Array of Blind and Shutter Colors, Patterns, and Styles
In addition to helping to conserve energy, modern skylights offer extensive customization options. These features enhance both function and aesthetics.
- There are over 100 colors and pattern choices available, and VELUX designed rolling shutters and blinds to complement your new skylight.
- Room Darkening blinds are a double-pleated or flat skylight blind that can transform your space from day to night.
- Light Filtering blinds are the perfect option for diffusing light, ideal for areas such as kitchens and living rooms.
- Venetian Skylight Blinds provide a smooth and simple operation, conveniently allowing you to position your blinds at any point on the skylight.
- Not only are blinds and shutters aesthetically appealing, they can also earn you tax rebates with the federal government.
- Modern skylights have new low-emissivity coatings, pane layering, and glazes which increase the energy efficiency and extend lifespan—so many opportunities!
Today’s skylight accessories deliver practical benefits while contributing to your home’s energy efficiency and qualifying for federal tax incentives.
Terrific Tax Rebate For Skylights
Did you know that there are federal tax rebates available for new skylight installation? Understanding how to claim these credits maximizes your investment and makes energy-efficient upgrades more affordable.
- If you’re thinking about installing or replacing a skylight in your home, you may be eligible for a tax rebate through the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit.
- Federal tax credits are available through December 31, 2025, allowing homeowners to claim up to 30% of qualifying skylight costs, with a maximum credit of $600 total for exterior windows and skylights combined.
- Exterior residential windows or skylights must meet the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria to be eligible for the 25C Federal Tax Credit.
- Here’s how it works: Use the ENERGY STAR Climate Zone Finder to determine your climate zone, then identify the Certified Product Directory (CPD) number of the product(s) you purchased to verify eligibility.
- Keep your receipts for the total price paid of the skylight including the product and installation, and complete the Federal Tax Credit – Manufacturer’s Certification Statement and keep it for your records.
- At tax time, fill out IRS tax form 5695, Residential Energy Credits, and submit it with your taxes for the year in which you placed the skylights in service.
- The credits have no lifetime dollar limits—homeowners may claim the maximum annual credit every year that eligible improvements are made, through 2025.
- Consult a tax professional if you have questions or concerns about your specific situation and eligibility.
- Skylights that are eligible for the federal tax credit must meet Energy Star Most Efficient certification requirements for your specific climate zone.
Taking advantage of available tax incentives through 2025 significantly reduces the net cost of skylight replacement when coordinated with your roof work.
Sources for 2025 Tax Rebates for Roofing and Skylights:
- Energy Star – Windows & Skylights Tax Credit: https://www.energystar.gov/about/federal-tax-credits/windows-skylights
- IRS – Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit
- IRS – How to Claim Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/how-to-claim-an-energy-efficient-home-improvement-tax-credit-exterior-doors-windows-skylights-and-insulation-materials
Working With the Best Roof Replacement Companies Near Me
When planning your roof replacement, partnering with experienced professionals makes all the difference. Whether you’re searching for a roofing company in Gloucester, a roofing contractor in Beverly MA, trusted roofers in Lynnfield, the best roofing contractor in Newbury, or an Andover MA roofing company, choosing qualified contractors ensures your skylights and roof work together seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skylight Replacement
Is replacing skylights cheaper with a new roof?
Yes, and here’s why coordinating saves you money:
- Yes, coordinating skylight replacement with your roof installation is significantly more cost-effective because contractors already have equipment mobilized, scaffolding erected, and crews on site.
- Labor costs are reduced because the roof deck is already exposed during installation, eliminating the need for additional tear-off and reconstruction.
- Many contractors offer bundled pricing when both projects are completed together, providing additional savings.
- Scheduling both projects at once also means you only pay permitting fees and mobilization costs one time.
Why replace skylights with roof replacement?
The timing and compatibility make it essential:
- Skylights have a similar lifespan to roofing systems, typically lasting 15-25 years, so they’re often due for replacement at the same time.
- Disturbing old skylights during roof installation can compromise their seals and structural integrity, leading to leaks.
- Modern skylights offer superior energy efficiency, improved thermal performance, and advanced features that older models lack.
- Replacing both together ensures proper integration between new flashing systems and current roofing materials.
Should I replace skylights when replacing my roof?
Most experts agree it’s the smart choice:
- In most cases, yes—especially if your skylights are over 15 years old or showing signs of wear like condensation, leaks, or discoloration.
- Professional contractors recommend replacement to avoid warranty issues, as reflashing older skylights often voids manufacturer warranties.
- The cost difference between reflashing and replacing is often minimal when done during roof installation, making replacement the smarter long-term investment.
- Replacing skylights during your roof project protects your new roofing investment from potential damage caused by failing skylights.
What happens if I don’t replace my skylights when I replace my roof?
Several costly problems can arise:
- You risk seal failure within months of your new roof installation, which would require tearing up sections of your brand-new roof to address.
- Older skylights may not be compatible with modern flashing kits and roofing materials, creating vulnerable leak points.
- Reflashing can weaken the skylight’s structure and performance, potentially reducing its remaining lifespan by several years.
- You’ll likely face significantly higher costs later when replacement becomes necessary, as you’ll pay full mobilization and labor rates for a separate project.
Does Coastal Windows & Exteriors recommend replacing skylights with the roof?
Absolutely, based on our extensive experience:
- Yes, we strongly recommend replacing skylights during roof installation for optimal performance and long-term value.
- Our experience shows that homeowners who replace both together avoid costly callbacks and enjoy better overall satisfaction.
- We offer comprehensive solutions that include proper flashing, high-quality VELUX products, and professional installation backed by our warranties.
- Our team can assess your skylights during the roof inspection and provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
What’s my price difference per skylight if I wait vs. do it now with the roof?
The numbers show significant savings when bundling:
- The cost difference can be substantial—waiting to replace skylights separately can cost nearly double compared to bundling with your roof project.
- During roof installation, the per-skylight investment typically ranges from around one thousand to over fifteen hundred dollars depending on features and size.
- Standalone skylight replacement later requires separate mobilization, tear-off, and reconstruction, adding several hundred dollars or more per unit in additional labor and materials.
- When replacing multiple skylights, bulk pricing during roof installation provides even greater per-unit savings.
How much could Energy Star skylights cut ice-dam risk or heating costs in New England?
Energy-efficient skylights provide measurable benefits in our climate:
- Energy Star certified skylights can improve your home’s thermal performance by up to 40%, which directly reduces heat loss that contributes to ice dam formation.
- Modern VELUX skylights feature advanced Low E-3 coatings and improved insulation that minimize heat transfer, helping maintain consistent roof temperatures.
- Proper installation with new flashing and integration with quality roofing materials creates an airtight seal that prevents warm air escape—a primary cause of ice dams in New England winters.
- Homeowners in our region typically see noticeable reductions in heating costs, though exact savings vary based on home size, insulation, and skylight placement. The combination of reduced air infiltration and better thermal control makes a meaningful difference during harsh New England winters.
The Time to Replace Your Roof and Skylight is Now With Coastal Windows & Exteriors
The reasons to replace your skylights when you replace your roof range from aesthetic to performance purposes. The most convenient and affordable time to replace a skylight is when you are installing a new roof!
By replacing your skylights when you replace your roof, you’ll save money in the long run and ensure you won’t be paying for a new roof twice! Understanding should I replace skylights when replacing my roof is crucial for protecting your investment and maximizing your home’s comfort and efficiency.
You can also enjoy the benefits of the new energy-efficient models (including solar-powered options!) and naturally ventilate your home to increase thermal comfort.
Contact Coastal Windows & Exteriors today for a free estimate on new roof replacement and skylight installation. Our experienced team will help you make the best decision for your home and budget.