Skylight
A window installed in the roof surface to provide natural light. A common source of leaks when flashing deteriorates or installation is improper.
A window installed in the roof surface to provide natural light. A common source of leaks when flashing deteriorates or installation is improper.
Why Skylights Matter for Insurance Claims
Skylights are one of the most vulnerable roof penetrations. They can be cracked by hail, broken by debris, and their flashing can be damaged by wind or ice. Even when the skylight glass appears intact, the flashing system around it may have been compromised, leading to leaks that appear weeks after the storm. During a roof inspection, examine each skylight for glass damage, flashing displacement, and seal deterioration. Include all damaged components in the claim scope.
Skylights in Xactimate Estimates
Skylight work in Xactimate includes several possible line items: removal of the existing skylight, installation of a new skylight unit, flashing kit installation, ice and water shield around the opening, and trim work on the interior. The size of the skylight (typically 2x4 or 3x4 feet for residential) and the type (fixed, venting, or tubular) determine which selector code to use. If only the flashing needs replacement and the unit is intact, a re-flash line item can be used instead of full replacement.
Skylight Flashing During Re-Roofs
When a roof is replaced, the skylight flashing must be addressed. At minimum, the existing flashing should be inspected and the step flashing and counter flashing around the skylight replaced. Most skylight manufacturers sell a flashing kit designed for their units that integrates with standard shingle installation. Using the correct manufacturer flashing kit is important for both leak prevention and warranty compliance. This is a separate line item from the skylight unit itself.
Frequently asked questions
Best practice is to replace skylight flashing kits during every re-roof. Whether the skylight unit itself is replaced depends on its age and condition. Many contractors recommend replacing skylights over 15 years old during a re-roof to avoid future leak callbacks.
Skylight replacement or re-flashing has its own line items in Xactimate. The estimate includes the skylight unit (if being replaced), the flashing kit, ice and water shield around the opening, and the labor to install. Skylight sizes and types (fixed, venting, tubular) affect pricing.
Yes, if the skylight was damaged by a covered peril. Cracked or broken skylight glass from hail or debris is a common claim item. The flashing around the skylight may also be damaged even if the glass is intact, and this should be inspected during the roof assessment.
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