You know that skylights bring light into your home, but do you know how long for? As nice as it would be if they could last forever, it’s just not possible. The answer to how long a skylight lasts depends on a number of different variables, including how it was installed and the quality of the manufacturing. Other factors like how well it’s maintained and even the quality of your roof can also play into a skylight’s life expectancy.
Our blog explains the life expectancy behind skylights, and what can affect their longevity. For further information or personalised advice, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us at Skylights WA today.
How Long Will a Skylight Last?
On average, a skylight will last between eight and 15 years. However, with advancements in technology, VELUX skylights can last up to 20 to 30 years! As we mentioned earlier, there are a lot of contributing factors when it comes to how long your skylight will last.
What Goes Into Determining a Skylight’s Life Expectancy?
1. The Quality
As with many products, the quality of your skylight will play heavily into how long it will last. Buying a lower quality skylight may seem like a good idea at the time, but these will often end up costing you more in the long run. This is because they are more susceptible to damage and general wear and tear, meaning they will need to be replaced sooner than a higher quality skylight. It may lost you less upfront, but that doesn’t necessarily make it the best investment.
2. The Installation
Poor installation can leave skylights with improper sealing, causing the edges of the skylight to leak. And nobody wants a dripping skylight! Subpar workmanship, like a lower quality skylight, can often cost you more in the long run than what you’d save upfront.
3. The Repairs
Repairs to fix a badly installed skylight, like caulking, often aren’t long-term solutions, either. Caulking doesn’t allow the skylight to breathe, so it can’t expand and contract with the changes in the weather, causing it to fracture and crack. It’s best to get the best work done the first time to save you a lot of time, money, and headache.
4. The Roof
Replacing a roof means you’ll need to replace your skylight, as well. Make sure your roof is structurally sound before considering a skylight so that you get the maximum life expectancy from your skylight as you can! If the skylight is in good shape but the roof needs replacing, it can be tempting to try to re-use it, but this simply isn’t safe. Replacing the roof can change its structural integrity and so it just isn’t worth the risk.
5. The Maintenance
As with anything else homeowner or business owner-related, you’ll need to maintain your skylight to keep it performing at its best. While this can be challenging when you have tall ceilings, it’s important to keep an eye on your skylight to check for damage and clean it from the inside and out as required.
Looking For a Skylight in Perth?
When it’s skylights in Perth you’re after, Skylights WA has all your needs covered. As a WA family business since 2009, we’re dedicated to bringing local families, homeowners, and business owners the light their space deserves. With commercial, VELUX, and Belle skylights and years of experience, our team at WA Skylights can bring your home or business to new heights.