Thinking about adding a skylight? The biggest concern is always leaks. Here's why ours don't leak: we build a structural curb between the rafters, wrap it in ice-and-water shield, install step flashing on all four sides, and re-shingle around the unit with proper overlap. Then we verify the seal from inside the attic. Runnells Roofing & Maintenance — leak-free skylight installation in Runnells.
The curb is the foundation of every skylight installation. We frame it between existing trusses or rafters with doubled lumber to carry the load. The roof deck opening is cut precisely — no oversizing that weakens the sheathing. The skylight flange seals to the curb, and the flashing system integrates the unit into the existing shingle field so water runs over the flashing, not under it.
Our Skylight Installation Process
Site Assessment
Our estimator visits your Runnells home, inspects the attic framing, and recommends skylight size, type, and placement. We show you product options — fixed, vented, tubular — and provide a detailed written estimate.
Curb Construction
Roof deck opening cut to exact dimensions. Structural curb built between rafters with doubled headers for load transfer. This is the foundation that holds the skylight and carries snow load — it's built to structural standards.
Flashing & Waterproofing
Self-adhering ice-and-water shield on all curb faces. Step flashing along both sides lapped under each shingle course. Head flashing at the top, apron flashing at the bottom. Waterproof sealant at every overlap and transition. The flashing makes or breaks the installation.
Install & Insulate
Unit installed and sealed. Light shaft insulated and trimmed. We verify the seal from inside the attic — if we can see any daylight at the flashing joints, we re-seal before we leave. Your skylight is watertight and energy-efficient.
What Runnells Customers Say
"After getting several quotes, these guys stood out with their honesty and knowledge. No pressure, just straightforward advice and excellent workmanship."
"Best experience we've ever had with a home service company. On time, on budget, and the results exceeded what we expected. Truly top-notch."
"From the first phone call to the final walkthrough, everything was seamless. The team was courteous and efficient. Already recommended them to two friends."
Why Choose Runnells Roofing & Maintenance for Skylight Installation?
Code Compliant
Every skylight installation meets IA building code for structural framing, energy performance, and egress requirements. Permits pulled when required.
Brand Options
VELUX, Fakro, Sun-Tek — fixed, vented, and tubular models. Tempered and laminated glass. Built-in blinds and shades. We help you choose the right unit for your roof, room, and budget.
Structural Curb Framing
We frame a proper structural curb between your rafters with doubled headers. No flimsy brackets or foam shims. The curb carries the skylight load and provides a solid base for the flashing system.
Roofer-Installed, Not Handyman
Runnells Roofing & Maintenance is a roofing contractor, not a general handyman. Skylights are roof penetrations — they require roofing expertise, proper flashing materials, and waterproofing knowledge. That's what we do every day.