The short answer
What Causes the Leak
During a thaw, snow on your roof melts from the bottom up, especially if your attic is warm. This water runs down and can find gaps in the skylight's flashing or seals. If the skylight is old or was installed poorly, the rubber gasket may have cracked from years of sun and cold.
Another common cause is an ice dam. When snow melts and refreezes at the roof edge, water backs up behind the ice and can seep under the shingles and the skylight flashing. A thaw can also loosen ice that was plugging a small gap, letting water flow through suddenly.
- Cracked or dried-out rubber seals around the glass
- Flashing that has lifted or pulled away from the roof
- Ice dams forcing water up under the shingles
- Poor installation, leaving gaps between the skylight and roof deck
- Condensation from warm indoor air meeting cold glass
- Debris like leaves or pine needles blocking drainage channels
How to Check from Inside
Start by looking at the ceiling around the skylight while it is still wet. You may see water stains, damp drywall, or a drip. Feel the edges of the skylight frame for moisture. If you have access to an attic, check the underside of the roof deck near the skylight for wet wood or insulation.
Also look for daylight coming through gaps when it is dark outside. That can show you exactly where the seal has failed. Do not walk on a snowy or icy roof to inspect it yourself. That is dangerous, and you could damage the roof further.
Keep a bucket under the drip to protect your floor, and dry the area with towels to limit water spread. In a mild, wet climate, winter thaws often bring such leaks to light.
What to Do Right Now
Move furniture and rugs away from the leak. Put a bucket or pan under the drip to catch water. If the leak is small, you can dry the area with a fan or a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the drywall and framing. This helps prevent mold from starting.
Do not try to seal the skylight from the outside while it is wet and icy. Any sealant you apply will not stick to a wet surface. Instead, focus on drying the inside and protecting your belongings. Once the roof is dry and clear of snow, you can address the cause.
If you have a large leak or water is spreading through the ceiling, you may need to remove wet drywall to let the framing dry. This is where the pros can help with extraction and drying equipment.
When to Call the Pros
If the leak is more than a few drips, or if water is soaking into insulation or drywall, it is time to call local water damage pros. They can extract standing water, set up structural drying and dehumidification, and map moisture in walls and ceilings. This is important to prevent mold and rot.
The pros can also inspect the skylight and roof to find the exact entry point. They may recommend a roofer or a mold professional if the issue is beyond water cleanup. Their work usually involves drying, removing damaged materials, and preparing surfaces for repair.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if thaw-related leaks are included.
Preventing Future Leaks
Once the roof is dry and clear, check the skylight flashing and seals. If you see cracks or gaps, a roofer can replace the flashing or reseal the skylight. Keep the roof clear of leaves and debris so water can drain freely. Also check that gutters and downspouts are not blocked.
Improving attic insulation and ventilation can reduce ice dams by keeping the roof surface cold and even. That helps snow melt evenly instead of refreezing at the edges. If you have had repeated leaks, a roofer may recommend replacing the skylight with a newer model with better seals.
For the water damage inside, local water damage pros can help with drywall repair and structural drying after the leak is fixed.
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Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Can I fix a skylight leak myself?
Small seal cracks can be patched with exterior-grade caulk, but only when the roof is dry and above freezing. If you are not comfortable on a ladder or roof, leave it to a roofer. A leaking skylight can hide bigger roof damage.
Will my insurance cover skylight leak damage?
It depends on your policy and the cause. Some policies cover sudden water damage, but gradual wear or poor maintenance may not be covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy and document the damage with photos.
How do I dry out wet drywall from a leak?
Use fans, a dehumidifier, or open windows to circulate air. If the drywall is soaked, you may need to cut out the wet section to let the framing dry. The pros can do this and set up structural drying equipment.