Begin with the room and the reason
For a new skylight, think about where you want daylight and how you use the room. Consider the position of furniture, the ceiling shape, and whether you want an opening unit or a fixed one. These preferences help narrow the discussion.
For an existing skylight, describe the issue: visible staining, water during rain, fogging, damaged glazing, or difficulty operating it. Share when the problem began and whether any roof work took place recently.
The flashing is part of the system
Skylight mounting and flashing vary by product and roof application. VELUX describes deck-mounted, curb-mounted, and other arrangements with different flashing details. The unit and the roof connection need to be selected together.
Ask which product, mounting arrangement, and flashing system are proposed for your roof. A generic statement about sealing a skylight does not explain the complete scope.
- Exact skylight product and dimensions
- Roof slope and material suitability
- Mounting and flashing arrangement
- Roof opening and any framing work
- Interior finish responsibilities
- Controls, shades, or electrical work if applicable
Separate the roof work from interior finishing
A skylight project can involve more than installing the roof unit. Ask whether a light shaft, drywall, painting, trim, or electrical work is required and which party will complete it.
For replacement, discuss the existing opening, whether the new unit fits it, and what surrounding materials need attention. Confirm the appearance of the finished room as well as the exterior roof detail before accepting the scope.
Coordinate with planned roof work
If your roof is being replaced, bring existing skylights into the assessment. Ask about their condition and the implications of retaining or replacing them during the roof project. Treat each unit as part of the roof plan.
Keep the product information, operating instructions, and applicable warranty documents afterward. If you request an assessment, include photos from inside the room and any accessible product label. Avoid climbing onto the roof to identify the unit.
Your questions, answered
Does water near a skylight mean the unit needs replacing?
It needs investigation. The unit, flashing, surrounding roof, and conditions inside the building may need to be considered before selecting a scope.
Can a skylight be included in roof replacement?
It can be discussed as part of the assessment. Confirm the exact unit, installation scope, and interior finishing responsibilities in the project documents.
Is interior painting included?
Do not assume it is. Ask for roof work, framing, electrical work, and interior finishes to be identified separately in the scope.
