SKYLIGHT INSTALLATION

At Orca Roofing & Exteriors, our specialist teams are able to provide you with a skylight installation that brings the beauty of natural light to homes across the Pacific Northwest. Serving Pierce, King, Island, and Snohomish counties, we understand that your skylights are more than just windows; they’re a source of natural light, ventilation, and beauty in your home. Whether you’re looking to replace an old, leaky skylight, add a stunning new one to your living space, or simply need a repair, our team of expert skylight installers is here to help.

Why Choose Orca for Your Skylight Installation Needs?

• Quality Craftsmanship: We use only the highest quality skylight design from trusted brands like Velux, ensuring lasting performance and beauty. As Velux Certified Installers, we have the expertise to install their products to the highest standards.
• Expert Installation: Our experienced roofers are skilled in all types of skylight installations, from simple replacements to complex new constructions, including those requiring intricate truss modifications.
• Customer-Focused Approach: We listen to your needs and concerns, providing honest advice and transparent communication throughout the process. We’ll even walk you through the different types of skylight designs, like curb-mounted and deck-mounted options, to help you make the best choice for your home.
• Commitment to Excellence: We’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and exceeding your expectations. We go above and beyond industry standards by replacing flashing kits as a standard practice during roof replacements, ensuring long-term leak prevention.

Skylight Replacement: Breathe New Life into Your Home

Is your skylight showing signs of age, like leaks, cracks, or condensation? Or perhaps you’re simply ready for an upgrade to a more energy-efficient model? A skylight replacement can dramatically improve your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.

Here’s what you can expect when you choose Orca for skylight replacement:

• Thorough Analysis: We’ll carefully inspect your existing skylight(s) to assess their condition and recommend the best course of action, including checking for signs of seal failure, wear and tear, and potential leak points.
• Expert Recommendations: We’ll help you choose the perfect skylight type and size to suit your needs and budget, considering factors like energy efficiency, ventilation, and style. We’ll even advise you on standard skylight sizes to help you save on costs.
• Seamless Installation: Our skilled roofers will ensure your new skylight installation is flawlessly carried out, with meticulous attention to detail and proper flashing to prevent leaks. We’re also Velux Certified Installers, guaranteeing expert installation of their high-quality skylights.
• Peace of Mind: We stand behind our work with a solid warranty, so you can rest assured that your investment is protected.

Skylight Repair: Addressing Common Issues

If your skylight is experiencing problems like leaks, drafts, or condensation, don’t wait until it’s too late. Our team can diagnose the issue and provide effective repairs to restore your skylight’s functionality and prevent further damage.

Common skylight problems we can fix:

• Leaks: We’ll identify the source of the leak and repair or replace the flashing, shingles, or skylight as needed. We understand that leaks often originate from the flashing kit, not the skylight itself. As such, we’ll address the root cause of the problem carrying out a thorough skylight leak repair.
• Condensation: We’ll address issues with ventilation or insulation that may be causing skylight condensation buildup.
• Cracks or Damage: We can repair or replace damaged skylight panes to restore their integrity and appearance.

New Skylight Installation: Illuminating Your Possibilities

Adding a new skylight installation can transform a dark, dreary room into a bright, inviting space. Whether you’re looking to add natural light to a bathroom, kitchen, or living area, we can help you choose the perfect skylight to enhance your home’s beauty and functionality.

Types of Skylights Installations:

• Fixed Skylights: A cost-effective option for adding natural light without ventilation.
• Ventilating Skylights: Allow for fresh air and natural ventilation, perfect for bathrooms and kitchens. We can even install models with solar-powered vents for added convenience.
• Tubular Skylights (Sun Tunnels): Ideal for smaller spaces or areas where a traditional skylight isn’t feasible. These are a quicker and easier option as they require less drywall work.

Understanding the Skylight Installation Process

Installing a new skylight involves more than just cutting a hole in your roof. Our team will carefully assess your roof structure, including truss placement and ceiling type (standard attic or vaulted ceilings), to ensure proper installation and prevent any structural issues.

Here’s a simplified overview of the process:

1. Planning and Preparation: We’ll discuss your needs and preferences, help you choose the right skylight design, and obtain any necessary permits.
2. Roof Opening: We’ll carefully cut an opening in your roof, ensuring proper framing and support, especially when working around trusses.
3. Skylight Installation: We’ll install the skylight, flashing, and sealant to ensure a watertight seal. For new installations, we’ll also construct a “chase” to connect the skylight to your ceiling and finish it with drywall for a seamless look.
4. Interior Finishing: We’ll finish the interior with drywall, trim, and paint to create a seamless and attractive look.

Tips for Choosing the Right Skylight Design

• Consider Your Needs: Do you need ventilation? How much light do you want? What’s your budget?
• Think About Placement: Where will the skylight be located? What direction does it face? Keep in mind that skylights placed between trusses are generally more affordable than those requiring truss modifications.
• Choose the Right Size: Standard sizes are generally more affordable than custom sizes. Even a slight deviation from standard sizes can significantly increase the cost and lead time.
• Factor in Energy Efficiency: Look for skylights with high energy-efficiency ratings to save on heating and cooling costs.

Addressing Homeowner Concerns

We understand that investing in new skylights or repairing existing ones is a significant decision. Homeowners often have questions and concerns, and we want to address those upfront. Here are some common concerns we hear:

• Leaks: “Will my new skylight leak?” 
• This is a valid concern, especially in the rainy Pacific Northwest. At Orca, we take leak prevention very seriously. Our expert installers are meticulous about proper flashing and sealing techniques, ensuring a watertight installation. We also use high-quality skylights from Velux, known for their durability and weather resistance. Plus, we replace flashing kits as a standard practice during roof replacements to minimize future leak risks.
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• Energy Efficiency: “Will my skylight make my home too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter?” 
• Modern skylights are designed with energy efficiency in mind. We can help you choose skylights with features like Low-E coatings, argon gas fills, and insulated frames to minimize heat transfer and improve your home’s energy performance.
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• Durability and Maintenance: “How long will my skylight last? Will it require a lot of maintenance?” With proper installation and care, your skylight can last for many years. Velux skylights, for example, come with generous warranties. We’ll also provide you with tips on how to maintain your skylights to ensure their longevity and optimal performance.
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• Cost: “Skylight installations seem expensive. Are there ways to manage the cost?” 
• We understand that budget is a major consideration. We’ll work with you to find the most cost-effective solutions, such as recommending standard skylight sizes and exploring financing options. We’ll also provide transparent pricing and explain all costs involved upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average skylight installation cost?
   • The cost varies depending on factors like the size and type of skylight, the complexity of the installation, and any necessary repairs. We offer free estimates to give you an accurate idea of the cost. For simple skylight swaps, the cost can be a couple of thousand dollars, while new installations involving structural work can range from $10,000 to $30,000 or more.
2. How long does it take to install a skylight?
   • A typical skylight replacement can take a day or two, while a new installation may take longer depending on the complexity of the project.
3. What is the typical lifespan of a skylight?
   • The lifespan varies depending on the type of skylight, the quality of the installation, and the level of maintenance. However, with proper care, a well-installed skylight can last 15-20 years or even longer.
4. How do I maintain my skylight to ensure its longevity?
   • Regularly clean the glass and frame, inspect the flashing and sealant for any signs of damage, and ensure proper ventilation to prevent condensation buildup. We can provide you with a detailed maintenance guide.

Ready to Brighten Your Home?

Contact Orca Roofing & Exteriors today for a free consultation and let us help you bring the beauty of natural light into your home. We’re committed to providing exceptional service and quality craftsmanship that you can trust.