How to Repair Skylight Leak (8 Easy DIY Fixes for Homeowners)

Knowing how to repair skylight leak issues can save you from costly water damage, mold, and frustration. Skylights are a great way to bring natural light into your home, but when they begin to leak, they can quickly cause problems for ceilings, insulation, and drywall. Fortunately, many common skylight leaks can be addressed with simple, homeowner-friendly fixes—without needing a full replacement.

• Skylight leaks often start small but worsen if ignored
• Many DIY fixes are affordable and easy to apply
• Acting fast can prevent interior damage and mold growth

Let’s walk through the most common causes of skylight leaks and how you can fix them with confidence.

Why Skylights Leak in the First Place

Skylight leaks don’t always mean your window is broken. In fact, most leaks are caused by worn seals, flashing issues, or roofing problems around the skylight—not the skylight itself.

Age, heavy storms, ice dams, and improper installation are the biggest culprits. Over time, flashing can pull away, caulking can dry out, or shingles around the unit may shift, allowing water to seep through.

If you live in Barrington and surrounding areas, where rain, snow, and seasonal temperature swings are common, routine maintenance is even more important for preventing water infiltration.

How to Spot a Skylight Leak Early

Leaks don’t always appear as dripping water right away. There are subtle signs you can watch for that often indicate skylight issues.

• Stains on drywall or ceiling: Water marks or dark spots around the skylight frame often signal slow leaks.
• Condensation between panes: Moisture between the glass usually means a failed seal—not a roof leak, but still worth addressing.
• Warped wood trim: Skylight framing that’s beginning to swell or warp could be absorbing hidden moisture.
• Dripping during storms: If you notice active dripping when it rains or after snow melts, there’s likely a flashing or seal problem.

Once you’ve spotted the issue, use the following step-by-step fixes to stop the leak.

8 Easy DIY Fixes for Skylight Leaks

These homeowner-friendly solutions are safe, cost-effective, and easy to apply in most situations. If your skylight leak is minor or recently developed, there’s a good chance one of these will solve it.

1. Clean and Clear Debris

Leaves, twigs, and roof granules can build up around the skylight and clog drainage paths.

• Why it works: Blockages can redirect water under flashing instead of away from the skylight.
• How to do it: Use a soft broom or gloved hand to gently remove debris around the skylight and roof area.

2. Reseal the Flashing

Flashing seals around the skylight can wear out over time.

• Why it works: Resealing restores the waterproof barrier where the skylight meets the roofing material.
• How to do it: Apply roofing sealant or caulk (compatible with roofing materials) around visible gaps in the flashing.

3. Replace Dried-Out Caulk

Old or cracking caulk around the skylight frame can let water seep through.

• Why it works: Fresh caulk creates a water-tight bond between the skylight frame and roofing surface.
• How to do it: Remove old caulk with a putty knife and apply a bead of exterior-grade silicone or polyurethane caulk.

4. Check and Repair Shingles Around the Skylight

Loose or missing shingles near the skylight often cause leaks.

• Why it works: Replacing or refastening shingles ensures water doesn’t slip under the flashing.
• How to do it: Slide in a new matching shingle and nail it in place, sealing the nail heads with roofing cement.

5. Tighten Mounting Screws

Sometimes leaks occur because the skylight frame has shifted slightly.

• Why it works: Loose fasteners allow water to creep between the frame and roof.
• How to do it: Carefully tighten exposed screws along the frame, being careful not to overtighten and crack the skylight.

6. Apply Roof Patch or Cement

For temporary repairs, roofing patch can seal small holes or gaps.

• Why it works: Patch provides a quick waterproof barrier for minor surface cracks or seam gaps.
• How to do it: Use a roofing patch kit or apply roof cement with a trowel over the affected area, then smooth it out.

7. Replace the Gasket (if accessible)

Some skylights have a rubber gasket that compresses between the glass and frame.

• Why it works: A cracked or rotted gasket allows water into the unit.
• How to do it: Order a replacement gasket from the skylight manufacturer, remove the old one, and install the new piece.

8. Improve Attic Ventilation

In some cases, condensation is mistaken for a skylight leak.

• Why it works: Better airflow reduces interior moisture that collects around skylights.
• How to do it: Ensure attic vents are clear and consider adding insulation to minimize condensation buildup.

When to Call a Professional

While many leaks can be handled on your own, there are times when calling a professional roofer or skylight specialist is the right move.

• Persistent leaks: If the leak continues after repairs, the issue may be structural or due to poor original installation.
• Skylight age: Units over 20 years old may need replacement, not repair.
• Cracked glass or seal failure: Moisture between panes or broken skylight glazing should be evaluated by a pro.
• Roofing damage: If the area around your skylight has rotted decking, mold, or widespread shingle issues, it may require larger roof repairs.

Homeowners in Barrington and surrounding areas often rely on local roofing pros for fast assessments, especially after heavy storms or winter damage.

Preventing Skylight Leaks in the Future

Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid leaks and preserve your skylight’s life span.

• Inspect seasonally: Look over skylights twice a year—once before winter and once in spring.
• Keep gutters and roof valleys clean: Debris buildup causes water to back up and seep into skylight seams.
• Apply fresh sealant every few years: Even if no leaks are present, resealing ensures long-term protection.
• Watch for mold or mildew: Moisture stains or musty smells around skylights may indicate hidden leaks.

A few minutes of preventive care each season can save thousands in water damage repairs later.

Why Homeowners Choose Shake Guys

At Shake Guys, we understand how frustrating a skylight leak can be—and how important fast, effective solutions are. Whether you’re dealing with a simple seal issue or need professional repair, our team brings the tools, training, and experience to get it done right.

• Specialized roofing expertise: We know how to work with all skylight types, flashing styles, and roof systems.
• Local experience: We understand how seasonal conditions in Barrington and surrounding areas impact skylight performance.
• Fast response: We offer quick service when leaks appear and preventative maintenance to avoid future problems.
• Detail-oriented inspections: We check more than just the skylight—we assess the entire roof system around it.

When you call Shake Guys, you’re not just fixing a leak—you’re protecting your home.

Need Help With a Skylight Leak?

If you’ve tried these DIY fixes but still see signs of water damage, don’t wait for it to get worse. Shake Guys is here to help with trusted skylight and roof repair services for homeowners in Barrington and surrounding areas.

Contact Shake Guys today to schedule a skylight inspection or get help with leak repairs. We’ll identify the source, offer the right fix, and help protect your home from future water damage.