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While skylights allow warm, natural light to enter your home, they can be prone to leaks. This is especially true in winter when they can become covered in melting snow. Luckily, roofing professionals can typically help with the winterization process. Here are several steps involved.

How to Prepare Skylights for Winter

1. Clean

Pick up a scrubbing brush with an extendable wand or, if you’re comfortable, a ladder so that you can clean the skylight. A lot of dirt of debris will have collected throughout the year, and cleaning the frame and glass will ensure light passes unobstructed to warm your home. At the same time, you’ll identify any small watermarks, frayed seals, or damage that could indicate the beginnings of a leak. Since it can be dangerous to venture onto the roof of your house, you should consider having a professional come to perform this skylight maintenance.

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2. Test the Mechanics

While it’s rare you’ll want to open your skylight during winter, it’s still good to know it’s working, so test the mechanics. Run the auto-open motor or wheel the vent open if you have a manual model. Do the same if you have blinds. Testing for a tight seal doesn’t just prevent leaks. You’ll also ensure that warm, HVAC-treated air isn’t leaking out as it rises, which wastes energy and drives up electric bills.

3. Inspect

Hire roofing professionals for a comprehensive exterior inspection. They’ll carefully test the seals around the skylight to ensure they’re not absorbing water and will also check the surrounding flashing and shingles for signs of damage. This is especially important when your skylights are reaching the end of their life span, which typically happens between eight and 15 years.

 

If you need assistance with your skylights, contact Trio Contracting. These roofing professionals use their combined 35 years of experience to complete various jobs in the Ham Lake, MN, area. They’re fully licensed and insured and proud to offer skylight installation and maintenance, as well as other home improvement help. Call (763) 360-1502 to speak with a representative, and visit their website to learn more about their roofing services.

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