Are you thinking of installing a skylight in your mobile home? In previous years, mobile home skylights haven’t had the best reputation. Leaks and inconveniences with cleaning are common complaints one might hear about having a mobile home skylight.
However, with advancements in technology, skylights have become increasingly popular with mobile home homeowners. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mobile home skylights — from how to choose the best type of skylight, to where they should be installed. We’ll also include tips and trips on how to repair and replace a mobile home skylight. Read on to find out more!
Those interested in selling their homes can look for national mobile home buyers.
Advantages of Skylights
Unarguably, the best part of having a skylight in your mobile home is having natural sunlight. What’s more, unlike having windows, you don’t have to worry about losing any privacy if you choose to install a skylight. As mobile homes have low ceilings, skylights are also great for making your home feel more spacious.
Disadvantages of Skylights
Leaks are the biggest drawback of having a mobile home skylight. The sealant and flashing between the frame and glass deteriorate over time, causing water to seep through the cracks.
Another disadvantage is having to clean skylights. The only way to clean them is to climb up onto the roof of your mobile home which can be very inconvenient.
Fixed VS Operable Skylights
There are two categories of two skylights: fixed and operable.
As its name suggests, fixed skylights can’t be opened or closed. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes but don’t come with added mechanisms or blinds.
On the other hand, operable skylights come with built-in mechanisms that allow you to open and close them using a remote. Some solar-powered skylights even come equipped with sensors that enable them to close automatically when it rains.
If heat is something you’re worried about during warmer months, consider installing an operable skylight. Operable skylights facilitate cooling as the cool air that comes in through the skylight pushes warm air out.
Curb VS Deck Mounted Skylights
The next category of skylights has to do with how they’re installed: curb or deck mounted.
Curb mounted skylights are installed above a framed opening in the roof. Frames are often made of metal or wood and typically consist of 2×4’s. Curb mounted skylights can be fixed or operable and are commonly used for residential houses. They’re also a popular choice as the window can be easily replaced without having to change the entire skylight.
Unlike curb mounted skylights that sit on top of an elevated frame, deck mounted skylights are installed directly to the roofing deck. Deck mounted skylights are often cheaper than curb mounted ones. But, they also run a higher risk of leaking. With that being said, if you’re willing to put in the effort to maintain the skylight’s sealing and flashing, curb mounted skylights make a great choice.
Location of Mobile Home Skylights
Buyers often spend a lot of time deciding which skylight to purchase but fail to consider where to install it. The location of your mobile home skylight is more important than you think as it affects the amount of sunlight and heat that comes into your mobile home. Additionally, glare is something you need to think of if you have TVs and computers in your mobile home.
If you live in a temperate climate, installing your mobile home skylight such that it faces the south is a good way to capture heat. However, in the warmer months, you might want to consider blinds or shades that will shield your mobile home from excess sunlight.
Why are Leaks So Common with Mobile Home Skylights
Leaks are a common problem faced by both mobile and site-built homeowners with skylights. A leaky skylight can lead to a multitude of problems — from rotting and molding roofs to warpings and stains on the walls.
Temperature changes are a common cause of skylight leaks. If the weather is too hot or cold, the sealant and flashing may contract and expand, causing water to seep through the cracks between the window and frame. Snow and debris that collect around a mobile home skylight can also lead to leaks. This is because water trapped by a buildup of snow and debris causes a roof’s decking to deteriorate over time.
Identifying Skylight Leaks
Now that you know how detrimental skylight leaks are to your mobile home, how then do you identify one? Identifying the origin of a leak can be tricky, especially if a leak has been repaired before. However, recognizing signs of a leak can help to prevent it from going out of hand.
Some common signs of skylight leakage include:
- Skylight discoloration
- Damaged to the skylight’s frame or shingles
- Spongey roof decking: When walking on the roof of your mobile home, look out of any areas that feel soft or loose. This is one of the first signs of water damage to the decking or wood.
- Loose or dry caulk
How to Replace a Skylight
Replacing a leaky skylight with a new one is usually a better option than trying to repair it. There are many videos available online on how to replace a skylight but we’ve compiled a few important tips. Additionally, some tools and materials you may need include a nailer, hammer, snips, caulk, butyl tape, grace ice, and water shield.
- Start by positioning your new skylight over the opening in the roof
- Nail the deck seal into the roof’s decking
- Fix the adhesive underlayment around the skylight
- Nail the step flashing under the shingles
Hiring a Pro to Install a Skylight is Smart
Replacing your skylight by yourself can be a good way to save money. But, if you’re inexperienced with roofing or aren’t confident, getting professional help is a better option. This is especially so if you’re trying to repair a leaky skylight. Improper repair may even cause further damage to your mobile home. Thus, it’s best to get a professional to do the repair for you.
Conclusion
Now that you know more about skylights, it’s up to you to decide whether or not it’s a suitable addition to your mobile home. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort to maintain your skylight, it’s time to start picking out one for your mobile home! But, if doing maintenance checks sounds too tedious and inconvenient for you, maybe it’s best to reconsider getting a mobile home skylight.
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