Skylight Window Glass Installation
Skylights are welcome additions to most homes as they add a look of elegance and beauty. However, as with everything, they can become cracked, dull or broken. At that time, they need to be replaced or repaired. Doing this yourself can save you time and money.
Items needed:
- Ladder
- Gloves
- Caulk and caulk gun
- Glass or Plexiglas
- Utility knife
- Drop cloth
- Tape measure
- Screwdriver
- Putty knife
- Check the skylight from the roof making certain everything else is still in good condition. The flashing should be intact and make sure it is still secured to the roof.
- Spread your drop cloth inside, under the skylight. Keep anyone from entering the area until you have the glass removed as it could be falling.
- Score the broken glass with the utility knife and then gently tap it until it snaps out. Repeat until you have all the glass out of the frame.
- Clean the frame with the screwdriver until you are certain all small pieces have been removed.
- Measure the opening to obtain the size of the replacement glass. Measure at least twice to allow for mistakes. You can either replace the glass with another glass pane (only use safety glass – either laminated or tempered) or use Plexiglas or "Low-E" glass.
- Run a caulk bead around the frame and set the glass in place. Hold it down with pressure until it has adhered to the caulking.
- Use the putty knife to remove excess caulk. Check the entire surface to make sure you have a good seal.
- Check your work by spraying water through your garden hose to make sure you do not have any leaks.