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Many builders, remodelers and contractors have gotten a similar phone call: homeowners complaining that their older skylights are leaking, usually because condensation is trapped.

Older skylights were traditionally made of acrylic or plastic domes, which weren’t very durable or watertight. These types of skylights also offer little in the way of energy efficiency – meaning homeowners end up letting in more hot air in the summer while losing heat in the winter.

Although these designs were popular at one time, the building industry has realized these products should be replaced with newer skylight models, which tend to be sturdier, better looking, and more energy-efficient.

Fortunately, it’s not very difficult to replace older skylights. New skylights install the same way as older models, and require no extra cost or work to upgrade the product. And like with any replacement skylight, to get the job done, you typically only need to be there for one day – and you can make the most of your time by upselling older skylight replacements when a customer schedules a reroofing project.

5 Reasons to Replace During Reroofing

1

They’ll save time and money.

The skylights are already old, and with the roofing crew's work, they're likely to loosen up a bit. Replace them during reroofing to avoid more expensive problems later.
2

They could nab a solar tax credit.

Customers can get the latest, greatest solar-powered skylight models for much less this year, because of a 30% federal tax credit on product and installation through December 31, 2019. Solar-powered models also have more functionality, so your customers are getting the most bang for their buck.
3

They’ll realize improved energy efficiency.

While older skylights aren't very energy-efficient, newer models feature upgrades like dual-paned glass, which keeps in heat during the winter and cool air during the summer.
4

They’ll access more daylight and fresh air.

Bubble skylights don’t open, but many new venting models do – quite easily. Manually operated venting skylights generally come with an easy-to-use crank or rod, depending on whether or not they’re installed within reach, and electric- and solar-powered models come with remote controls to power them.
5

They can control daylight with blinds.

Speaking of daylight, the newest skylight models can be outfitted with room-darkening or light-diffusing blinds to provide light control in the room below. The blinds come in a variety of colors and patterns, so homeowners can add some design pizzazz to their ceilings.

Even if a customer has an older model skylight that hasn’t started leaking, it makes sense to replace it when you reroof. They get a better product and peace of mind from not having to fear leaks – making them more likely to talk to neighbors, friends, and relatives about replacing or upgrading their own skylights – and you can boost your own bottom-line profit by $500 to $1,000.

Kat Wiseman

Member of the WDMA PR Committee | Content writer for VELUX America

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