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. Ithaca Roofing & Maintenance — leak-free skylight installation in Ithaca.
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
Free on-site assessment. We check your roof structure, identify the optimal position between rafters, and present skylight options with honest pricing. Sun angle analysis included.
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.
Weather Barrier
Full flashing system: ice-and-water shield base layer, step flashing and counter-flashing on all four sides, woven into the existing shingle field. Water flows over the flashing and onto the shingles below — never behind them.
Completion
Skylight unit set into the curb and flange sealed to the roof deck. Shingles re-laid around the unit with proper overlap. Inside, rigid insulation installed around the light shaft to prevent condensation. Interior trim finished. Watertight verified from the attic.
What Ithaca Customers Say
"We called expecting to wait days, but they were here the same afternoon. Fair pricing, quality work, and they kept us informed every step of the way."
"Our neighbors recommended them and now we understand why. Meticulous attention to detail and they treated our home like it was their own."
"After getting several quotes, these guys stood out with their honesty and knowledge. No pressure, just straightforward advice and excellent workmanship."
Why Choose Ithaca Roofing & Maintenance for Skylight Installation?
Code Compliant
Every skylight installation meets MI building code for structural framing, energy performance, and egress requirements. Permits pulled when required.
Insulated Light Shafts
Every skylight installation includes rigid foam insulation around the light shaft. Uninsulated shafts cause condensation and energy loss. We insulate, vapor-seal, and trim the interior for a finished look.
Leak-Free Guarantee
Every skylight gets ice-and-water shield, step flashing on all four sides, counter-flashing, and sealant at every transition. Verified from inside the attic before we leave. If it leaks, we fix it free.
Roofer-Installed, Not Handyman
Ithaca 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.