A Thoughtful Skylight Renewal and Flashing Rebuild in Vaughan
A careful renewal to stop leaks, modernize flashing details and restore daylight to a two-storey Vaughan home.
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Careful removal and assessment
We removed the existing skylight and carefully stripped the surrounding shingles and underlayment to inspect the curb and roof deck. Any saturated sheathing and compromised insulation were removed and recorded for the homeowner; remaining joists and rafters were checked for structural soundness.
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Rebuilding the curb to code and best practice
We rebuilt the curb in pressure-treated lumber and sheathed it with plywood, then installed a 20–30 mm ventilated gap where appropriate to reduce thermal bridging. The curb height and slope were sized to meet local practice for curb-mounted units and to accommodate proper flashing transitions under the shingles.
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Durable flashing system with layered waterproofing
Rather than single-piece metal flashing alone, we applied a self-adhered SBS (styrene–butadiene–styrene) waterproofing membrane at the curb base, followed by custom-formed stainless steel counterflashing and continuous drip edges. We integrated step flashing under each shingle course and installed a continuous head flashing with a positive slope to shed water.
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Premium skylight selection and thermal detailing
The homeowners selected a low-profile, double-glazed skylight with a thermally broken aluminium frame and low-e coated tempered glazing for improved R-value and condensation control. We set the unit on a continuous, compressible butyl gasket and secured it per the manufacturer’s fastener pattern, sealing joints with a compatible neutral‑cure silicone where specified.
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Finish, ventilation and quality assurance
We replaced the underlayment with a roof-grade synthetic underlayment and relaid asphalt shingles to match existing colour and exposure. Final steps included a ventilation check (attic airflow, baffle integrity) and a 48‑hour water test to confirm no leaks before leaving site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a skylight replacement and flashing rebuild usually take?
Typical projects of this scope take one to three days on site depending on access, the extent of deck repairs and weather. We build in contingency for replaced sheathing and allow time for careful flashing integration; scheduling avoids heavy rain and freeze events when possible.
How disruptive will this be to my home?
Disruption is limited to roof access and a protected work area inside if ceiling finishes are exposed. We lay down floor protection, contain dust where we work and communicate each step by email so homeowners in Vaughan know the schedule and next steps without surprise visits or phone calls.
When is a flashing rebuild necessary versus a simple skylight swap?
If flashing shows corrosion, repeated patching, or if there’s evidence of water staining on sheathing or inside ceilings, a full flashing rebuild is advisable. Temporary flashing repairs may buy time, but a rebuilt curb and layered waterproofing are what deliver long-term reliability in Ontario’s climate.
Will the new skylight reduce heat loss in winter?
Yes — choosing a thermally broken frame with insulated, low-e double glazing improves R-value compared with older single-pane units. Combined with proper flashing, insulation and attic ventilation, you get better overall thermal performance and reduced condensation risk.
Ready to resolve persistent skylight leaks in Vaughan?
We serve Vaughan and neighbouring communities in York Region with meticulous roof and flashing work — contact us by email for an assessment.
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