Things to know before you install a skylight

Skylight installations are mainly done to improve the dark rooms and giving them ample natural sunlight. It takes as long as two hours for skylight installation in Toronto, most of the Canadian house owners prefer doing it during summer time. It brightens up the room and provides good energy in the house.

Don't compromise on quality

There are important things to consider that you want to be sure of installing a skylight. Skylight installation is a serious task, therefore; you need to investigate the best options. It is important to note that energy efficiency, load and wind resistance, sound reduction and water tightness should be considered before installation. There are other parameters as well like UV coatings, shading and ventilation which you can assure before you give the contract.

Placement of skylight is important

It is better to have a blueprint of your house in hand before you start cutting the roof sections to install the skylights. The placement of roof beams determines how your skylights will be placed.

Bad weather can ruin your plans

Canada is snowing throughout the year, so it is next to impossible to think of installing it then. Usually, preferred time is summer, but rains and bad weather are unwelcomed guests that can hinder your skylight installation plans. So, possibly consider doing it on bright sunny day.

There is probability of falling off

When you are installing skylights, make sure the ladder you are using is of a good height and most importantly that you are wearing strong grip shoes (non-slip footwear). While you are working on your roof, it is important that you use roof jacks that can support a 2"x12" board and you can stand safely. When doing so, make sure you secure the roof jacks with the nails all the way driven into the roof beams and not just piercing the sheathing.

Determine the slope before you buy flashing

It is important to know the slope, as there is variety of flashing kits available with specific needs. It is recommended to have thorough knowledge before you take up the installation project.

Start from the inside

Once the inner covering or sheathing is removed, punch in four screws or nails in the corners of the outlined box that is marked for the skylight, making it easier to situate the opening on the roof.

Remove the shingles before cutting

Shingles should be removed from the roof before you start cutting the marked skylight opening.

Waterproof the flashing

Considering extreme weather conditions in Canada, skylight installation in Toronto requires waterproofing to drip off excess water and snow from the opening. It comes in the kit and gets attached very easily to flashing.

Drywall and insulation as an add-on

Apply a drywall and insulation to reduce condensation and make sure that the skylight is placed appropriately to let in enough light and does not use excessive ceiling space.

Self-ventilating skylight

There are a lot of brands of skylight that give you enough light in the room and also help in air ventilation.