Do skylights need to be resealed?

Yes, skylights periodically need to be resealed as part of routine home maintenance because the sealants, caulks, and rubber gaskets that keep them watertight degrade over time. Constant exposure to harsh ultraviolet sunlight, heavy rains, freezing winter temperatures, and thermal expansion causes exterior caulking to dry out, crack, and lose its flexibility within five to ten years. Inspecting your skylights annually allows you to catch early signs of degradation, such as hairline cracks in the sealant or lifting edges around the metal flashing. When this happens, cleaning the surface and applying a fresh, high-grade polyurethane or silicone sealant can extend the life of the skylight and prevent water from seeping into your attic. However, if the underlying flashing system is rusted or structurally damaged, simple resealing will only provide a temporary fix and a full flashing overhaul will be necessary.