DIY Skylight Removal

Learn how to remove a skylight in four easy steps below.

Necessary Tools For Removing A Skylight

Start this process by gathering the necessary tools, including:

Roof bracket.
Flat pry bar.
Utility knife.
Power drill or screwdriver.
Staging plank.
Fall protection harness.

Step 1

Find the edge of the shingles which surround the bottom of the skylight.
Next, lift the shingles up.
Put a 4-foot long piece of a 2-by-4 where the shingles lay on the roof by using a hammer and nails.
Use a board to brace your feet while removing the skylight.

Step 2

Remove all the shingles surrounding the skylight as soon as possible.
Put a putty knife between the shingles being removed and the ones they overlap.
Using the claw of the pry bar, lift the roofing nails that secure the shingles.

Step 3

Find all the brackets securing the skylight to the roofing.
Using the pry bar, pry the brackets away from the roofing.
Make sure to pry with care to avoid damaging the roof and surrounding area.
When you pry the brackets, the skylight will rise.
Put the pry bar at the bottom frame of the skylight and roof, prying upwards if there are no brackets.

Step 4

Fully remove the skylight from the roof opening.

When Should You Remove A Skylight?

Here are a few signs that your skylight needs to be removed and replaced:

Cracks On Panes

The most obvious sign that you need a replacement is whenever you notice any cracks on the panes. Cracks will allow heat and water into the home. While the cracks will generally start small, the gaps can increase quickly over time. Not only will this reduce the skylight efficiency, it will also increase your heating costs.

Leaks

Leaks can be the worst possible problem facing your skylight. Remember, a skylight is just like a window – it’s part of your roofing. When leaks persist, this can cause damage to the surrounding areas, and create mold and mildew.

Discoloration

Skylights can become discolored over the years. Any yellowing will prevent sufficient light from entering the home. Furthermore, you may also notice some peeling or bubbling forming on the drywall surrounding the skylight at this time. Any time that the skylight fails to do its job at the highest level, a replacement is recommended.