What it Takes to Install a Skylight

Before beginning any project, be sure to consult with your state and building codes. Also be sure to follow proper safety precautions, when you're installing the skylight.
After you choose your skylight, curb-mounted or frame in place, you will then need to know how to install it.

First gather your supplies. According to the National Retail Hardware Association (NRHA), to install a skylight, you will need:

* Skylight and Flashing
* 1x2 cleats
* Drywall
* Level
* Utility Knife
* Keyhole Saw
* Chalk Line
* Nails
* Circular Saw
* Ladder
* T-Bevel
* Roof Cement
* Framing for Curb, Roof and Ceiling Headers
* 2x4s for Light Shaft
* Rigid Foam Insulation
* Steel Tape Measure
* Pry Bar
* Hammer
* Carpenter's Square
* Plumb Bob
* Tin Snips
* Reciprocating Saw
* Try Square

After that, you must make a rough opening frame it and install the window, following the instructions provided here.

Finally, you will need to build the ceiling and light shaft, following directions provided by the NRHA.

This isn't a good project for first time do-it-yourselfers; you may want to consult an expert or someone who has successfully installed a skylight before but this should give a great idea of what tools and kills you'll need to install a skylight yourself.

by Carly Zinderman

photo: Giles Douglas

Charles & Hudson | Comments () |

rolf matchen

Ohh, I thought you can just install a skylight anytime. Well if that's the case, I must consult someone before I put up my skylight next month. I'm sure it will look great on our roof.

johnnyp

Carly,
I am glad I read your post thoroughly . This not a project for the DIY. Framing and installation, maybe, but as far as making it weather tight leave it to a pro roofer. I learned the hard way. I installed three large vlux windows and had a couple of friends finish the flashing and roofing. These were guys are pros, but not roofers. They did everything right, ice and water barrier , brass boat nails , silicon caulk and still had leaks. Other issues prompted me to reroof and I was surprised to see there was no trace of where the leaks were ,no rotting or wet wood. I convinced the roofer to give an additional year on the warranty and he didn't hesitate to agreeing.
This problem persisted for intermittently for seven years.My buddies were often asking about these windows, confident that everything was done right and couldn't for the life of them figure out why, even after numerous inspections, stop gap measures and inspection of photos I took . It has been 9 months with no issues .The contractor I used does residential roofs only and was quite confident this problem would not reoccur.
First time visitor , like your page.

Allison

You also have to be careful of the type of roof material. If it's shingles I think you have to build a box to go between the skylight and the shingles. Something to check into.