Skylight Replacement Cost

What Is Skylight Replacement?

Skylight replacement involves removing an old or damaged skylight and installing a new unit, including proper flashing and interior finishing. Understanding skylight replacement cost helps you budget for this home improvement that brings natural light into dark spaces.

Common reasons for skylight replacement include seal failure (fogging), leaks, outdated single-pane glass, crack or break damage, and upgrading to vented or smart skylights.

Skylight Replacement Cost by Type

Tubular Sun Tunnel

Cost: $500-$1,200 installed

Pros:

• Most affordable option
• Works where standard skylights can't (long distances)
• Small roof penetration (10-14")
• No structural modifications needed
• Spreads light evenly
• Can navigate around obstacles

Cons:

• No view of sky
• No ventilation
• Less natural light than full skylights
• Diffused light only
• Limited to smaller areas

Best for: Hallways, closets, bathrooms, areas far from exterior walls.

Fixed Skylight

Cost: $650-$1,600 installed

Pros:

• Lowest cost for true skylights
• Fewer moving parts (more reliable)
• Good for hard-to-reach locations
• Wide range of sizes
• Energy-efficient options available
• View of sky

Cons:

• No ventilation
• May need blinds for heat control
• Still requires roof penetration
• Light tubes better for some applications

Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, stairwells, areas where ventilation isn't needed.

Manual Vented Skylight

Cost: $1,000-$2,200 installed

Pros:

• Provides ventilation
• Lower cost than electric
• No electrical work needed
• Opens with pole or crank
• Reliable mechanical operation
• Energy savings potential (natural cooling)

Cons:

• Must be within reach (or use pole)
• Manual operation inconvenient for some
• Can forget to close before rain
• Limited opening angle

Best for: Single-story rooms, areas within reach, budget-conscious ventilation needs.

Electric Vented Skylight

Cost: $1,500-$3,400 installed

Pros:

• Convenient remote operation
• Can reach any ceiling height
• Rain sensors available (auto-close)
• Programmable with timers
• Can integrate with smart home
• Easier to use regularly

Cons:

• Higher cost
• Requires electrical connection
• Motor may fail over time
• More complex installation
• Power outage = no operation (most have manual override)

Best for: High ceilings, bedrooms, frequent ventilation needs.

Solar-Powered Vented Skylight

Cost: $1,700-$3,900 installed

Pros:

• No electrical wiring needed
• Federal tax credit eligible (30% through 2032)
• Rain sensors standard
• Battery backup included
• Remote control operation
• Easy retrofit installation

Cons:

• Highest cost
• Solar panel needs light exposure
• Battery may need replacement (8-10 years)
• Panel adds to roof profile

Best for: Retrofits, green-minded homeowners, when electrical access is difficult.

Custom/Large Skylights

Cost: $2,700-$6,500+ installed

Pros:

• Dramatic architectural impact
• Maximum light
• Custom sizes and shapes
• Can create focal points
• High property value addition

Cons:

• Very expensive
• May require structural engineering
• Heat gain/loss concerns
• Difficult to shade
• Complex installation

Best for: Luxury homes, architectural statements, room additions.

Skylight Cost Comparison Table

Factors That Affect Skylight Replacement Cost

1. Skylight Size

Standard sizes and approximate costs:

2. Replacement Complexity

3. Roof Type and Pitch

4. Interior Finishing

After installation, the light shaft may need work:

5. Geographic Location

Insurance Claims for Skylight Damage

When Insurance Covers Skylights

Usually Covered:

• Storm damage (hail, wind)
• Falling tree branches
• Lightning strikes
• Fire damage
• Vandalism

Usually NOT Covered:

• Normal wear and aging
• Seal failure from age
• Improper installation
• Lack of maintenance
• Gradual deterioration

Filing a Successful Claim

1. Document damage immediately - Photos and video before any cleanup
2. File promptly - Most policies require notification within 60 days
3. Get independent estimate - Don't rely solely on insurance adjuster
4. Review depreciation - Understand actual cash value vs replacement cost
5. Check your deductible - Small repairs may not exceed deductible

Storm Damage Tips

• Inspect skylights after every major storm
• Look for cracks, chips, or damaged flashing
• Check interior for water stains
• Document date and type of storm
• Keep records of skylight age and maintenance

Permit Requirements for Skylights

When Permits Are Required

Typical Requirements

• Permit cost: $50-$200
• Inspection points: Framing, flashing, final
• Code requirements: Energy efficiency, tempered glass (some areas)
• Egress requirements: May affect bedroom skylights

Considerations by State

• California: Title 24 energy requirements, tempered glass in certain locations
• Florida: Impact-rated glass in hurricane zones, wind codes
• Northern states: Snow load considerations, ice dam prevention
• All states: Fire separation requirements near property lines

Skylight Size and Placement Guide

Sizing Guidelines

General rule: Skylight area = 5-15% of room floor area

Placement Considerations

Orientation Impact:

• North-facing: Consistent, cool light; minimal heat gain
• South-facing: Maximum solar heat gain; good for heating climates
• East-facing: Morning light; moderate heat gain
• West-facing: Afternoon light; significant heat gain (can overheat)

Structural Considerations:

• Avoid skylights that require cutting rafters (expensive modifications)
• Consider roof valleys and hips
• Keep away from plumbing vents and chimneys
• Allow clearance for flashing and future roofing work

DIY vs Professional Installation

DIY Installation

Realistic for:

• Tubular sun tunnels
• Same-size replacement (existing opening)
• Experienced roofers with proper safety equipment
• Single-story or low-pitch roofs

DIY Challenges:

1. Roof safety (falls are serious)
2. Waterproof flashing (leaks are common)
3. Cutting through roofing and decking
4. Interior finishing
5. Proper weather sealing
6. Code compliance

Professional Installation

Recommended for:

• New installations (cutting new opening)
• Size changes
• Structural modifications
• Multi-story homes
• Steep roofs
• Vented skylights (especially electrical)

Professional Benefits:

• Proper flashing installation (leak prevention)
• Warranty compliance
• Code and permit knowledge
• Safety equipment and experience
• Interior finishing expertise

How to Save on Skylight Replacement Cost

1. Get Multiple Quotes

Obtain 3-5 written estimates. Prices vary 20-40% between contractors.

2. Time With Roof Work

If reroofing soon, add skylights then—reduced labor cost and better integration.

3. Choose Standard Sizes

Custom skylights cost significantly more than standard dimensions.

4. Consider Tubular Skylights

For light-only needs, sun tunnels cost 50-70% less than standard skylights.

5. Claim Tax Credits

Solar-powered skylights qualify for 30% federal tax credit through 2032.

6. Compare Brands

Prices vary between brands. VELUX is premium; budget brands exist but may have shorter warranties.

7. Keep Same Size

Replacing with identical dimensions avoids cutting costs and structural work.

8. Bundle Multiple Units

Installing several skylights at once reduces per-unit labor cost.

What to Expect During Skylight Replacement

Replacement Process (Existing Opening)

Day 1 (4-8 hours):

• Set up ladders/scaffolding and tarps
• Remove old skylight carefully
• Inspect opening and decking
• Install new skylight in existing curb/frame
• Apply flashing and roofing integration
• Interior trim and finish

New Installation Process

Day 1:

• Mark location from inside
• Cut roof opening
• Frame opening (headers/trimmers if needed)
• Install curb or deck-mount frame

Day 2:

• Install skylight unit
• Flash and seal exterior
• Roofing integration
• Interior light shaft work

Day 3:

• Finish interior drywall
• Trim and paint
• Final inspection
• Cleanup

Signs You Need Skylight Replacement

Replace Soon (Within 1-2 Years)

• Condensation between panes (seal failure)
• Minor water stains around skylight
• Yellowing or discoloration
• Skylight over 20 years old
• Difficulty operating vented models

Replace Immediately

• Active leaking
• Cracked or broken glass
• Damaged frame or flashing
• Major water damage visible
• Failed mechanism (vented stuck open)

Repair Instead of Replace

• Minor flashing issues (can be resealed)
• Weeping (not active dripping)
• Clogged weep holes
• Shade/blind mechanism issues

Conclusion

Skylight replacement cost ranges from $500 to $4,000 for standard installations, with type, size, and complexity being the main factors. Tubular sun tunnels offer the most affordable option at $500-$1,200, while electric vented skylights run $1,500-$3,400.

When planning your skylight replacement, consider whether you need ventilation (kitchens, bathrooms, upper floors benefit most) or light only. Orientation matters—north-facing provides consistent light without heat gain; south-facing maximizes solar heating.

Always ensure proper flashing installation, as most skylight "leaks" are actually flashing failures. Professional installation is recommended for new openings or when changing sizes. For simple same-size replacements with existing frames, experienced DIYers can save on labor.

Solar-powered skylights qualify for the 30% federal tax credit through 2032, making them more affordable and eliminating electrical wiring requirements. Consider this option for both new installations and replacements.