If you’ve owned a home in Minnesota for more than a few years, then you may be considering a reroofing project. It’s often an inevitable task that homeowners must deal with at some point or another. The age of your roof and how well it has been maintained play important parts in determining when that point is. There are many optional projects that can take place during a roof replacement in Minnesota. Skylight replacement is one of those optional projects.
To Keep or to Replace
Some homeowners choose to keep their existing skylight and apply new flashing during a reroofing project. It seems like it saves money on a project that can be rather expensive. However, you might be surprised to learn that there are some benefits of investing in a complete skylight replacement. Minnesota roofing contractors won’t hesitate to explain these benefits further if you ask. Here are a couple.
Roof Replacement and Reflashing Increases Risk
More specifically, it increases the risk of a leak. Homeowners believe that simply reflashing around the skylight is enough to prevent leaks, but it can actually increase the risk of leaks by disturbing the materials. The roof replacement itself is going to disturb the skylight and the area around it as well. While it may have performed very well in the past, this is enough to potentially cause a leak. And, depending on the specifics of your warranty, the reroofing project may void the warranty of the existing skylight.
The Price Difference Isn’t So Large
It might seem like reflashing is the better financial choice, but with skylight replacement contractors in Minnesota isn’t much more expensive than reflashing. There is a slight increase in cost, but the value it can add to your home is often enough to cover that gap. That all boils down to the contractor you choose to work with.
Replacement Is the Better Option
If you’re already undertaking a large reroofing project, then you should invest in a new skylight replacement as well. It will reduce the risk of leaks, you’ll have a new warranty for your skylight, and it could add significant value to your property.