Skylights are a wonderful addition to any home, providing natural light and enhancing the overall ambience. However, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure their longevity and performance. This guide will cover essential maintenance tips for both wooden skylights and the glazing, helping you keep your VELUX skylights in top condition.
Wood Maintenance
While most VELUX products come pre-painted, some still retain a natural wood finish that requires regular upkeep. Here’s how to care for your wooden skylights:
- Regular Treatment: The timber has been treated and coated at the factory, but it needs further treatment at least every four years. In areas with strong heat, sunlight, or high humidity (such as kitchens or bathrooms), treatment should occur every two years.
- Surface Preparation:
- Remove any existing surface treatment (varnish or paint).
- Ensure the wood surface is clean and dry before applying a primer to the timber.
- Once the primer is dry, apply a coat of water-based acrylic varnish or paint, following the manufacturer’s directions. If varnish or paint is damaged, apply the same method to the affected areas.
- Protecting Gaskets: When treating the wood, cover the gaskets to prevent varnish or paint from rubbing off onto them. This helps maintain the flexibility and effectiveness of the gaskets.
Cleaning the Pane
Keeping the skylight pane clean is essential for optimal light transmission. Here are some cleaning tips:
- Materials: Use a soft, clean, lint-free cloth, chamois leather, or a non-abrasive sponge. A clean, non-metal window squeegee can also be effective.
- Cleaning Solution: Generally, clean water is sufficient. You can use ordinary, non-abrasive household cleaners if needed. For hard-water areas, adding a small amount of detergent can help soften the water.
- Avoid Abrasives: Do not use cleaning products containing abrasive particles or chemicals, and avoid sharp or abrasive objects near the pane.
- Protective Measures: If any work is happening near the pane, cover it with a clean plastic sheet to prevent splashes or stains from aggressive compounds.
Cleaning the Flashing
Maintaining the flashing around your skylight is vital for preventing water build-up. Here’s what to do:
- Debris Removal: Once a year, remove leaves and debris from the flashing to ensure that rainwater can flow freely. This helps prevent potential leaks and water damage.
Managing Condensation
Condensation can be a common issue with skylights, especially in humid environments. Here are tips to help reduce its occurrence:
- Ventilation: Regular ventilation is key. Open windows for five minutes at least three or four times a day to circulate air.
- Humidity Control: Limit indoor humidity by avoiding indoor laundry drying and keeping bathroom and kitchen doors closed during cooking or bathing.
- Consistent Temperature: Try to maintain a constant room temperature of at least 20°C (68°F) to further prevent condensation.
Snow and Ice Management
In areas prone to heavy snowfall and cold temperatures, it’s essential to monitor the condition of your skylights during winter:
- Snow and Ice Accumulation: Ensure that snow and ice do not accumulate for prolonged periods. When temperatures rise, the skylight will often be one of the first places where melting occurs.
- Water Drainage: Always ensure that water can drain off the roof and surrounding gutters to prevent any water damage or ice build-up around your skylight.
Choose The Skylight Shop
Regular maintenance of your VELUX skylights is essential for their performance and longevity. By following these guidelines on wood care, cleaning, condensation management, and snow removal, you can enjoy the benefits of natural light in your home for years to come. If you have any questions or need assistance with maintenance, feel free to reach out!
