Why Is My Roof Lantern Leaking?

If you’ve recently had a roof lantern installed, but it seems to be leaking, this blog is for you.

If your roof lantern is leaking, you’re not alone in this; however, it may not necessarily be a leak, and if it is, your supplier should be on hand to help! On that note, let’s explore roof lantern leaks in more depth.

Aftercare

When you get a lantern roof, it is important to maintain it. We always advise that you should clean and check over your roof lantern at least quarterly. Unfortunately, you can’t just leave your roof lantern to fend for itself. It’s very important that the correct checks are made every few weeks. This includes, checking for cracks and weathering, as well as cleaning it properly.

The likelihood of your roof lantern leaking naturally increases with age. Rain could seep through small cracks, or even drizzle in from around the edges because of the warping of weaker materials over a long period of time. We choose to make our skylights with timber and aluminium because they are strong and durable for years.

Condensation

If you think your roof lantern is leaking, there is a high chance that it could be condensation. Condensation is caused when there is a large difference between the temperature indoors and outdoors. Having the hearing on during a winter cold spell is often the reason behind this.

Excessive moisture is usually first seen on roof lantern windows, which may appear steamier than usual, or covered in water droplets. It is also noticeable on the walls – keep an eye out for raised or blistered paint to help you spot it.

If you have seen signs of condensation on your skylight, it’s vital that you tackle the root of the issue. By simply improving the ventilation and insulation in your home, you’ll avoid condensation dripping from your lantern.

It Looks Like A Leak

It’s essential you find the root of the problem as quickly as possible. Check the perimeter of your roof lantern for signs of damage. It could be that materials have weathered, or that windowsills and tiling around the fixture have deteriorated. Any qualified roofer will easily be able to fix this type of leak.

Usually, a leak is noticed during extreme weather, such as heavy rain or snow. In winter, melting ice can also cause leaks. If problems aren’t spotted straightaway, they can build up over time. Frost or condensation build-up can result in a leak – this is caused when moist air is unable to escape. This is easily prevented by improving ventilation in the home, especially in the upstairs of your home.

Improper roof lantern installation is also one of the common causes of skylight leaks. The window that makes up the roof lantern must be fitted precisely to the opening made for it. If the fitting has not been done correctly, you could experience leaks right away.

Checklist

There are a few checks and fixes you can implement when it comes to preventing your roof lantern from leaking.

• Check the Insulation and the glass
• Check the timber wood or wooden fixtures
• You may need to replace the weather seal
• Roof lantern replacement

Fixes

• Ensure there is enough ventilation in your home to stop condensation
• Cracks in glass will get worse, so deal with this as a priority
• Quick fixes can be done yourself – just ensure you have the right resources
• Go back to your supplier if you need help
• Contact your supplier if you’re considering a roof lantern replacement

If you are unsure, always go back to your supplier and explain the issues you are having. Because roof lanterns are high value items, you should not be having issues early on. Most lanterns have a prolonged warranty period, so get in touch with your supplier and they can advise you on the next steps.

Aliwood Roof Lanterns

At Aliwood, we have over 30 years’ experience within the roof lantern industry. We offer quality assurance and use only the best and most durable materials to create your new structure. Our roof lanterns are thermal insulated and fully waterproof. Our expert team offer installation for ultimate ease and our warranty period covers a minimum of 5 years.

If you’d like a roof lantern to enjoy over the coming warmer months, then we’d love to hear from you! For more information, contact us, or you can call us on 01245 967107. We look forward to hearing from you!