5 Signs Your Skylight Needs Replacing (Not Just Repairs)

A skylight can brighten your space and lift your mood — but only if it’s working properly. Over time, even the best skylights can wear out, leading to leaks, drafts, or damage to your home.

So how do you know when a simple repair will do, or when it’s time for a full skylight replacement?

As Auckland’s VELUX Preferred Installers, we’ve seen it all. Here are five clear signs that your skylight may need replacing — not just patching.

1. ????️ Persistent Leaks Around the Skylight

A small drip may not seem like a big deal, but recurring leaks are a red flag.

Causes could include:

• Worn flashing or sealant

• Cracked glazing

• Improper installation

If you’ve had your skylight repaired more than once and the leak keeps returning — it’s probably time to replace it. Prolonged water exposure can lead to rot, mould, and ceiling damage, which is far more costly than a new skylight.

2. ????️ Cloudy, Fogged, or Yellowed Glass

Modern skylights use double-glazing with thermal insulation, but older models may lose their seal. This causes condensation between the panes, creating a cloudy or “milky” appearance.

If you notice:

• Condensation inside the glass

• Discolouration or a yellow tinge

• Warped plastic domes

… it’s a sign the skylight is past its prime. Upgrading to a new VELUX Low-E skylight will not only improve clarity but also boost your home’s energy efficiency.

3. ❄️ Drafts or Temperature Swings Under the Skylight

Do you notice it’s too cold in winter or too hot in summer under your skylight?

Old or poorly installed skylights often lack thermal performance. They let in UV heat in summer and lose warmth in winter. This can raise your power bills and create uncomfortable spots in your home.

Today’s skylights include:

• Low-E glazing to reflect UV heat

• Argon-filled insulation layers

• Rain sensors and smart controls

4. ???? Cracking, Peeling or Structural Movement Around the Frame

The skylight frame and surrounding roof structure can shift over time, especially on older homes.

Look out for:

• Cracks in the ceiling or wall plaster nearby

• Peeling paint

• Separation between the skylight and ceiling lining

These are signs of long-term moisture or movement. It’s safer (and cheaper in the long run) to replace the skylight than continue patching the surrounding damage.

5. ???? Your Skylight Is Over 15 Years Old

If your skylight is more than 15–20 years old, it’s likely nearing the end of its service life — even if it seems “fine” now.

Upgrading comes with major benefits:

• Better insulation = lower energy costs

• Quieter during rain

• Modern designs with remote or solar operation

• Eligible for warranties up to 10 years

Don’t wait for a leak to make the decision for you.

???? Bonus: What If It’s Just a Small Issue?

We get it — replacing a skylight sounds expensive. But in many cases, it’s more cost-effective than repeated repairs.

At Skylight Experts, we always assess your skylight first. If a fix will do the job, we’ll say so. But if a replacement is the smart move, we’ll help you choose the best option.

✅ Book a Skylight Check-Up Today

We offer Auckland-wide inspections to assess the condition of your skylight — including leak testing, flashing checks, and more.

Use our AI Quote Tool for an instant replacement estimate, or book a site visit for peace of mind.