All about skylight inspections

The roof surface may contain a skylight and/or dome. If a skylight or dome is installed later, special attention must be paid to the beam structure. To install larger skylights or domes, load-bearing beams that are part of the roof structure must be interrupted regularly. If this is not properly supported, there is a real risk of the roof surface sagging.

• Note that a weakened structure may cause the roof surface to sag or weaken further if not repaired. Such repairs are often relatively easy to make by inserting a few beams between the existing purlins and/or making other adjustments.

If there are any defects around the connections (lead or lead substitute), waterproofing tape can be used for repairs. This type of tape is available at any hardware store. If the defects are too severe, repair may be impossible and/or pointless. An expert in this field may be able to install a new connection, extending the lifespan of the skylights. Depending on the cost, replacing the elements can always be considered.

• Check these connections around the roof openings annually; any blown-up material can be corrected immediately.
• Remove dirt and leaves around the roof opening to prevent obstructions in the drainage system.
• These activities can be carried out independently.

• This includes leaking glazing , other leaks and/or defects in the hinges and locks.
• Is the double glazing leaking in the roof opening? This isn't a problem in itself and can remain so. The view will become more blurred over time.

• Inactive leaks: These could be caused by the window being open during rainfall or by condensation. The cause could also be a repaired defect (resulting in leakage) on the outside of this roof opening.
• Active leaks : these can be caused by the window being left open during rainfall or by condensation. Another possible cause could be a defect (resulting in leakage) on the outside of this roof opening, so you'll need to conduct a thorough investigation. If no defect is present, rain or condensation could be the cause. In this case, there's little you can do other than carefully manage the roof opening's opening position and/or possibly improve the indoor climate to combat condensation.
• The entire roof window may be poorly maintained , which is inherently detrimental to its lifespan and will lead to replacement sooner than usual. This overdue maintenance can still be addressed by doing it yourself.
  • Regularly grease any moving mechanical parts or spray them with penetrating oil.
  • Remove any contamination from the outside.
  • Clean the whole thing regularly.

• Are there any defects in the roof window's hinges and locks , or are some mechanical components malfunctioning or functioning poorly? These parts can be replaced, after which the entire system will usually function properly again.
• If your skylight is difficult to open and close, we recommend first spraying all moving parts with penetrating oil and then lubricating them. If necessary, adjust the entire system so that the controls, including the window's opening and closing, function smoothly and as intended.
• There is wood rot in the skylight: Because wood rot is already present, the condition of the window will remain dated even after repair and replacement might be a better option.