If you’ve noticed water stains on the ceiling or odd drafts near your skylight, you’re not alone. Many commercial property owners and managers are caught off guard by leaking or aging skylights. And when the problem shows up, it’s hard to know whether a simple skylight repair will solve it or if you’re looking at a full skylight replacement. 

At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’ve been helping businesses with commercial roofing and skylight solutions for over 40 years. Let’s break down what you need to know to protect your building and budget. 

What are the signs a skylight needs repair? 

If your skylight is leaking, fogging up, or showing signs of damage, it likely needs attention. Here are the most common signs that point to needing a skylight repair: 

• Water stains or dripping water around the skylight or on the ceiling below it. 

• Condensation between glass panes which could mean a broken seal. 

• Cracks or chips in the glass or frame. 

• Drafts or temperature fluctuations near the skylight. 

• Rust or deterioration in the flashing or skylight frame. 

A minor leak doesn’t always mean full replacement is needed. Often, we can repair skylights by resealing seams, replacing flashing, or addressing clogged drainage systems. 

Can you just repair a skylight instead of replacing it? 

Yes, many skylights can be repaired instead of replaced—especially if the damage is isolated and the skylight structure is still in good shape. 

A professional skylight repair might include: 

• Replacing cracked or fogged-up glass 

• Re-caulking or resealing the skylight edges 

• Fixing or replacing worn-out flashing 

• Re-aligning the skylight if it has shifted over time 

It’s important to catch issues early. Waiting too long can lead to deeper water damage in your roof system or interior, which gets much more expensive. 

When should you replace instead of repair a skylight? 

Sometimes, a skylight is simply beyond repair. We usually recommend skylight replacement when: 

• The skylight is more than 20 years old 

• There’s extensive rust, mold, or rot around the frame 

• The skylight is no longer energy efficient and causes heating/cooling loss 

• You’re already replacing your commercial roof 

If you’re doing a full roof replacement, it’s the perfect time to consider skylight replacement too. Old skylights don’t always pair well with a new roof system, and installing a new one can prevent future issues. 

How much does skylight repair cost? 

The cost to repair a skylight varies based on the extent of the damage and the type of skylight. For a simple reseal or flashing fix, it might run between $300 and $800. More extensive repairs like glass replacement can range from $800 to $1,500. 

Keep in mind, acting early keeps costs lower. Ignoring a small leak can lead to thousands in roof or interior repairs down the line. 

If you’re searching “skylight repair near me,” make sure you choose a commercial roofing contractor with specific experience in skylight repair and replacement. Not all roofers handle skylights properly. 

What if the skylight leak isn’t actually the skylight? 

Great question. Sometimes what looks like a skylight leak is actually a roofing issue near the skylight. That’s why professional inspection is so important. At Weather Shield, we perform a thorough roof and skylight inspection to track the exact source of any leak. 

We’ve had cases where clogged rooftop drains or poorly sealed HVAC units were blamed on skylights. A proper diagnosis avoids unnecessary skylight replacement or ineffective repairs. 

How do I find the best skylight repair near me? 

Finding the right contractor is key. Here are a few tips: 

• Look for commercial roofing specialists, not just residential ones 

• Ask if they have experience with repairing skylights and working with your type of roof (metal, flat, membrane, etc.) 

• Check for certifications and reviews 

• Ask if they offer a clear inspection and written repair estimate 

At Weather Shield Roofing Systems, we’ve worked with property managers, facility directors, and building owners across Michigan and the Midwest. Whether you need to repair a skylight or replace one altogether, we’ll help you weigh the best, most cost-effective option. 

How can I prevent future skylight problems? 

Preventative maintenance goes a long way. Here’s how to protect your skylight investment: 

• Schedule annual roof and skylight inspections 

• Keep rooftop drainage systems clear 

• Repair small issues promptly 

• Clean skylight glass and remove debris buildup 

• Use Max Life™ Roof Care to extend your entire roofing system’s life 

If you’re dealing with skylight issues right now—or just want peace of mind—our team is here to help. We offer straightforward inspections and no-pressure guidance, so you can make the best choice for your building and your budget. 

For over four decades, Weather Shield Roofing Systems has helped commercial property owners protect their roofs, skylights, and buildings from preventable damage and costly downtime. If you think you may need skylight repair or replacement, reach out today to schedule an inspection.