7 Essential Tips For A Successful Skylight Installation

Skylights can completely transform your home—bringing in natural light, reducing electricity bills, and making rooms feel bigger and brighter. But the key to getting all those benefits? A proper installation.

Done wrong, skylights can lead to leaks, mold, drafts, and water damage. That’s why it's important to work with a trusted roofing company in Montreal and make smart decisions from the start.

Whether you're upgrading your current space or building something new, here are 7 essential tips to ensure your skylight installation goes smoothly—and adds lasting value to your home.

1. Choose the Right Type of Skylight for Your Roof

Not all skylights are created equal. Your roof type will often determine which kind you can install.

• Fixed skylights are ideal for rooms where ventilation isn’t needed, like stairwells or hallways.

• Vented skylights open and close—perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.

• Dome skylights offer a more durable, curved design that allows water and debris to slide off easily.

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If you’re unsure which works for your home, speak with a residential roofing company that has experience with skylight ceiling projects. They’ll assess your roof’s structure and slope to recommend the best fit.

2. Plan for the Sun's Path

You’d be surprised how many people install skylights and end up with either too much heat or too little light.

• A north-facing skylight provides consistent light without heat gain.

• A south-facing skylight brings in more light—and heat—ideal for colder climates like Montreal.

  
  

A reliable roofing services provider in Montreal will help you plan placement according to your home’s orientation and daily sun exposure.

3. Use High-Quality Flashing to Prevent Leaks

Flashing is the unsung hero of skylight installation. It’s the waterproof barrier that keeps rain from getting between your roof and the skylight frame.

Cheap or improperly installed flashing is the number one cause of skylight leaks. Don’t cut corners here.

That’s where hiring the best roofers in Montreal really matters. Professional installers use premium materials and precise techniques to ensure your skylight stays watertight for years.

4. Consider Energy-Efficient Glazing Options

Skylights today come with a range of glazing options—each with different benefits:

• Low-E coatings help reflect UV rays and reduce heat gain.

• Tinted or solar glass keeps your room cooler in summer.

• Double or triple glazing improves insulation and energy efficiency.

  
  

When you're investing in residential roofing or roof repair in Montreal, it's wise to think long-term. An energy-efficient skylight helps you save on heating and cooling—and makes your home more eco-friendly.

5. Don’t DIY—Hire a Professional Roofing Company

Yes, DIY might seem tempting—but skylight installation is a job best left to experts.

You’re cutting into your roof, altering insulation layers, and potentially dealing with electrical or structural elements. One mistake could lead to leaks, water damage, or even collapse.

Hiring a licensed roofing company in Montreal ensures the job is done right. Look for one that specializes in residential roofing and has experience with skylight installation near you.

6. Always Schedule a Roof Inspection First

Before installing a skylight, your roof should be thoroughly inspected. Why?

Because if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or has hidden damage, the installation could make things worse—or become a waste of money.

A reputable residential roofing company can assess the current condition, determine your roof inspection cost, and advise whether any repairs or replacements are needed before proceeding.

And if you ever need quick support, it’s smart to have a team on call that also offers emergency roof repair.

7. Maintain Your Skylight (Yes, It Needs Love Too)

Just like your roof, skylights need regular maintenance. Over time, seals may degrade, debris can accumulate, and frames might shift due to temperature changes.

Here’s how to keep things running smoothly:

• Clean the glass and frames seasonally

• Check for signs of condensation or leaks

• Clear debris from nearby roof valleys

  
  

If you notice issues, don’t wait—contact a roof repair team in Montreal right away. Preventive maintenance helps avoid costly repairs down the line.

Final Thoughts: Light Up Your Home, the Smart Way

Skylights are one of the most elegant ways to bring natural light into your home—and when installed properly, they can last for decades.

Whether you’re thinking about a single skylight ceiling in your living room or adding a dome skylight to your hallway, the best results come from working with professionals.

At Belgrave Roofing, we specialize in residential roofing, roof repairs, and skylight installations that stand the test of time. From planning and placement to materials and waterproofing, we’re committed to delivering results you’ll love.