Roofing · Updated 2026-08-08
Should I repair or replace my leaking skylight?
Repair flashing or seals if the skylight is under 15 years old and the glass is intact. Replace if the unit is older, the insulated glass seal has failed, or you're already reroofing.
Most Long Island skylight leaks are flashing-related, not glass-related, and a $300–$700 reflashing fixes them. Replace when the IGU has fogged (failed seal), the curb is rotted, the unit predates Velux's solar-powered fresh-air models (older than ~2012), or when a reroof is already pulling the surrounding shingles — replacing during a reroof costs ~30% less than as a standalone job.
Common follow-up questions
How do I tell if it's the flashing or the glass?
Run a hose down the roof above the skylight on a dry day with someone watching from inside. Water entering immediately at the head (top) typically means failed step or apron flashing — repairable. Water condensing between the two glass panes means the IGU seal is gone — that requires replacement, the seal isn't field-serviceable.
What's a fair price range for a Long Island skylight replacement?
A standard fixed Velux deck-mounted skylight (FCM 2246) installed during a reroof typically runs $1,200–$2,000 per unit. A vented or solar-powered Velux fresh-air model (VSE / VSS) runs $2,000–$3,500. Standalone replacements (no reroof) add ~30% for shingle weave-in and disposal.
Are skylights eligible for any tax credit?
Historically, ENERGY STAR-rated skylights with a solar-powered blind kit could qualify for the federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) for the solar component, and installations completed by December 31, 2025 could claim it. Under current federal law, however, that credit is no longer available for new residential installations: For a typical homeowner, the federal §25D Residential Clean Energy Credit is no longer available for qualifying residential clean-energy property, including solar panels and battery storage, after December 31, 2025, under current federal law. Confirm any current tax treatment with a tax professional. Incentive and tax information last verified: August 8, 2026. Programs, tax laws and eligibility requirements may change.
By the numbers
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Need help with this on Long Island?
NovaLee Solutions is a licensed roofing, solar, and electrical contractor serving Suffolk County and all of Long Island. Our crew is GAF-certified, Tesla-Powerwall-certified, and Suffolk County master-electrician licensed.