Question:

Anthony, I own a ten year old split entry in Halifax and have just noticed water penetrating through the ceiling in the bathroom. The leak is in the opening below a skylight. I haven't had a chance to get up on the roof yet (because it's still raining here in Halifax) but my fear is the water is getting in around the flashing. I don't think the leak is in the glass itself but rather where the skyight meets the roof. How big a job is it (in rough order of magnitude) to repair the damage to the roof, the drywall, and potentially, some insulation. Thanks, Shawn Ferguson

Answer:

Hello Elliot Hi Shawn Sorry for the delay in returning my response. It can cost anywhere from $100-$200 for drywall and tap and $200-$400 for the repair of the skylight. It's not a hard job for someone who is experienced in roofing to assess and repair your skylight. It can be very challenging for someone that’s not as experienced. But if you feel confident you can do the repair I'll give you a crash course. 1. If you have a standard three tab shingle, strip the shingles 3 feet from the skylight to the nearest shingle that buts against it. Try not to damage the shingles. You can reinstall them later. 2. Clean all debris around the skylight. Install 3 feet of a product called Ice & Water shield around the skylight, starting with a piece at the bottom of the skylight. Cut the corners on a 45 degree angle and fold the flap against the frame on the sides of the skylight. Then install the ice & water along the vertical sides of the skylight using the same method. Then wrap the top of the skylight. *NOTE if the frame of the skylight is higher then the roof make sure you tightly install the ice & water shield up the frame 2-3 inches. 3. If there is a frame make sure to install step flashings against the skylight as you replace the shingles. E.g. nail one shingle then insert a step flashing etcetera. If there is no frame install the shingles and add a bead of caulking around the skylight. Anthony Barresi Century Roofing & General Repairs Ltd. (613) 738-1774

Answered By: Anthony Barresi

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