Skylights are a warm and welcoming addition to any living space. They give a glimpse into the outside world from the comfort of a home, RV, or other indoor space.

Skylights are beautiful but can be a burden to property owners when left unmaintained. Leaking skylights can raise energy bills, let in moisture, and cause long-term property damage.

Keeping skylights sealed keeps their indoor space warm and dry while letting in beams of sunlight. In our guide, we help you understand more about skylights and how to maintain them. Our tips make sealing skylights and keeping up with long-term maintenance a breeze!

Understanding Skylights and Potential Issues

Skylights come in various types, including fixed, vented, and tubular. Fixed skylights are stationary. Vented skylights open and close like many windows do. Tubular skylights distribute sunlight throughout spaces via reflective tubes.

All skylights are prone to common issues such as leaks, drafts, and condensation. Leaks come from compromised seals, while drafts come from poor insulation. Condensation poses a risk when warm indoor air meets a cold skylight surface. Recognizing these problems is crucial for effective, watertight, draft-free sealing with silicone caulking or sealant.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gather a caulking gun, utility knife, and caulk smoothing tool. These supplies guarantee accuracy and a polished appearance while applying silicone sealant.

Based on the material of the skylight, select the appropriate silicone sealant. Invest in a high-quality neutral-cure sealant for the best results. Usually, these sealants are effective on windows, but it’s always worthwhile to confirm that the silicone sealant you have works with the materials around each specific skylight.

Put safety first by using gloves and safety glasses, among other protective gear. For your safety, follow manufacturer instructions and make sure you have enough ventilation to prevent adverse effects.

Skylight Preparation

Examine the skylight first for any possible problems. Look for gaps, fractures, water damage, or leaks around the skylight. If there are any issues, you may need to fully remove the old sealant or complete other repairs before applying the new sealant.

If there aren’t any pressing concerns around the skylight, it’s time to clean up your work surfaces. Clean the skylight and surrounding areas of dirt, dust, and debris. This improves the performance of the sealant by providing a clean and relatively smooth surface for it to adhere to.

Choosing the Best Sealants for Skylights

When choosing a silicone sealant for skylights, give priority to durability and weather resistance. Most silicone sealants are made to withstand various weather conditions, but some are specifically designed for extremes. For example, if you’re sealing a skylight in a very hot climate, you may want to consider choosing Hi-Temp sealant.

You may also want to consider what the skylight will endure from the inside of the living space. For example, if you are sealing a skylight in a bathroom, you may want to prioritize mildew-resistant silicone sealant.

If you want help selecting the best sealant for your next job, call us at 812-824-8000.

Steps for Sealing a Skylight with Silicone Sealant

1. Prepare the silicone sealant by choosing the appropriate nozzle size for precision and cutting it at the right angle for controlled application.

1. Apply the silicone sealant to the skylight frame by starting from one corner and working systematically. Ensure an even and consistent application to guarantee a secure seal.

1. Smooth the sealant using a caulk smoothing tool or a wet finger for a professional finish. Remove excess sealant for better functionality and aesthetics.

1. Allow sufficient curing time before exposing the skylight sealant to elements, ensuring the sealant sets properly for long-lasting effectiveness.

Maintenance Tips for Sealed Skylights

Regular inspections of RV skylight sealant or in-home skylight sealant can help identify wear and damage early on, prevent problems before they worsen, and ensure long-term functionality.

To keep the sealed skylight functional, clean it often. Clear away dirt and debris to maximize light and improve visual appeal. Consider instructing your clients on how to properly clean their skylight so they can maintain it between your visits.

When necessary, have them call you to reapply the silicone sealant, especially after inclement weather. Strengthening the seal protects against potential harm and extends the skylight's lifespan. Routine maintenance keeps skylights secure for longer while improving energy efficiency.

Benefits of Properly Sealed Skylights

Properly sealed skylights lower the need for artificial lighting and heating. Throughout the day, natural light pours in, and the warmth of sunlight can help make your space more energy efficient. Then, as the sun goes down, the seal around the skylight prevents the warm air from escaping.

With regular care to prevent mold, mildew, or cracks from wear-and-tear, the seal on a skylight can last a long time and continue providing these benefits.

Seal Skylights with Silicone Sealant

Whether you’re sealing a brand new skylight or replacing the seal on an old one, silicone sealant is a great option for the best results. Browse our selection of silicone sealants today to find the right supplies for your next skylight project.