Hire the best installer to ensure your skylight is up to code to avoid air and moisture leakage
Does the tradesperson installing a skylight have to have specific training or certifications to do so?
The short answer is no. The slightly longer answer is, they should.
Installing a skylight isn’t as simple as cutting a hole in the roof and popping in a window. It’s a specialized profession that requires skill, precision, and knowledge of applicable building codes.
Nine times out of 10, you’ll need to call a professional roofer to install your skylight, especially if it’s being added to an existing building. You may also find help from a window company, an architectural glass and metal technician or glazier, or the manufacturer may even provide installation services themselves.
Unlike plumbing, electrical or carpentry, the individual skilled tradesperson doesn’t necessarily need to be certified as Red Seal journeyman to get the job done up to code.
Rather, the skylight itself needs to meet a specific industry code or standard before it even leaves the factory. The installer’s work should pass an inspection once the skylight is in place, to prove it is functioning optimally.
That said, there are a few questions you should consider as you search for a skylight installer.
How well can the installer follow instructions?
New skylights come with specific instructions for installation. This document should include a list of skylight components and their sizes, step-by-step photos of the process, tips for conducting quality checks, and even drawings to demonstrate proper use.
The instructions will have been developed through rigorous testing, and when followed to the tee, should ensure the skylight installation is up to Canadian and provincial building codes.
Technically, anyone who can follow these directions can install a skylight – but that doesn’t mean they should. There are nuances to the task that may not apply to other roofing or fenestration projects.
What experience and training do they have with installing a skylight?
Skylights can quickly go from a delightful building feature to a liability if they aren’t used correctly. They need to be sufficiently sealed to avoid moisture seepage and thermal air leakage, which can cause major structural damage and run up energy costs long term.
For this reason, it’s important to hire an installer with experience in the structural, thermal and waterproofing aspects of skylight set-up. They’ll need to know how to seal any gaps, ensure proper flashing installation, and pick up on any existing damage or flaws to the skylight components.
If you’re going the route of contracting a roofer for the job, don’t be afraid to inquire about their specific experience and training with skylights. The necessity for precise measurements and cuts to the roof can add complexity, compared to a typical roofing project.
Are they professional?
While not required, installers can take specialized training to build their skylight implementation and repair skills, simultaneously proving their competency. The Fenestration Installer Program from non-profit industry association Fenestration Canada is one such example. Look for this kind of accreditation to help narrow your search.
Finally, a reputable skylight installer will set expectations for their clients by providing a clear, itemized quote that outlines materials, labour, timeline, and any additional work that may need to be done to complete the job, such as framing or drywall repairs.
Be wary of unusually low quotes, as the service provider may cut corners on materials or lack experience, leading to costly repairs down the line.
Hire the right skylight installer
While time may be of the essence, when it comes to hiring a skylight installer, it’s worth doing your due diligence to verify experience, credentials, and professionalism.
With the right service provider on the job, a skylight can be a beautiful, functional addition to your home or commercial property that will be enjoyed for years to come.
