How Much Does Skylight Replacement Cost?

Posted on January 14, 2025

Estimated Reading Time : 5 Min.

Share Now :
Skylight Replacement Cost

When your skylight starts showing signs of age or isn’t performing as well as it used to, you might be wondering how much it will cost to replace it. 

Perhaps you’ve noticed some leaks, or maybe your skylight just isn’t as energy-efficient as newer models. 

Whatever your reason for needing a replacement, understanding the costs involved will help you make an informed decision about your home improvement project. 

Your skylight is definitely more than just a window in your ceiling, it’s an investment in your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and overall value.

How Much Should You Budget For A Skylight Replacement?

Budget For A Skylight Replacement

A skylight replacement generally costs between $800 and $3,000, although your actual cost may vary depending on several factors. This price range includes both the materials and professional installation, which can cause a wide range of price differences. 

Replacing a skylight is generally less expensive than installing a brand new one, which involves cutting new holes in the roof to make space for their installation. Instead, you just have to find a skylight that will fit the opening in your home. 

By understanding these base costs, you can begin to create a budget for your upcoming project, though you should keep various factors that influence the final price in mind.

What Types Of Skylights Are Available & How Do Their Costs Compare?

The type of skylight you already have will directly impact your replacement costs. 

Fixed skylights, which don’t open, are generally the most affordable option, with replacement costs ranging from $800 to $2,000. 

These skylights are perfect if you’re simply looking to add natural light to your space. They’re particularly popular in areas where ventilation isn’t a primary concern, such as hallways or rooms with other ventilated sources.

If you’re interested in ventilation, you might consider a manual vented skylight, which costs between $1,000 and $2,500 to replace. These skylights can be opened using a handle or crank, allowing fresh air to circulate through your home. 

They’re an excellent choice for bathrooms or kitchens where additional ventilation helps manage moisture and cooking odors.

For added convenience, electric vented skylights are available, though they come at a higher price point of $3,000 to $4,900. 

These models offer the ultimate convenience with remote control operation, and many can be integrated with smart home systems. Some even include rain sensors that automatically close the skylight when wet weather approaches.

There are even eco-friendly options now on the market. Vented skylights can also be solar-powered, and this option has been gaining popularity on the market. Their replacement costs range from $2,900 to $4,800. 

These innovative units use the sun’s energy to power their opening and closing mechanisms, and they also occasionally qualify for energy-efficient tax credits.

They’re particularly appealing if you’re looking to reduce your home’s carbon footprint while enjoying modern conveniences.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Your Skylight Replacement?

Several elements affect the final cost of your skylight replacement:

  • Size: Larger units naturally cost more, not only in terms of materials but also the labor required for installation. 
  • Location: If the location on your roof where skylights need to be replaced is hard to access, this may contribute to a higher cost. This is because it might require special equipment to reach the skylight safely. 
  • Prior Damage: If your existing skylight caused any water damage or requires structural repairs, these problems will need to be addressed during replacement, potentially increasing your overall cost.
  • Quality: The brand and quality of the skylight you choose will also influence the final price. While it might look like it’s better to opt for the cheapest option, investing in a high-quality skylight from a reputable manufacturer often proves more economical in the long run. Higher quality units generally offer better energy efficiency, longer warranties, and more reliable performance.

What Additional Costs Should You Consider?

When planning your budget for a skylight replacement, remember that you should also account for some additional expenses. For example, you might need to replace the flashing around your skylight, which typically costs between $75 and $300. Flashing helps ensure a watertight seal between your skylight and roof, protecting your home from uncertain leaks.

If you’re interested in adding blinds or shades to your new skylight, these extra accessories can add $100 to $500 to your project. While optional, these additions can help control light and heat gain, potentially improving your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. 

During your skylight replacement, it might also be revealed that there is a need for minor repairs to the surrounding roof or interior ceiling. These repairs might include new weatherstripping or resealing. While these costs might seem unexpected, addressing these issues during replacement is important in order to ensure your new skylight performs properly and remains leak-free.

How Can You Save Money On Your Skylight Replacement?

Although skylight replacement represents a significant investment, there are several ways to manage costs while ensuring quality results. If you’re already planning a roof replacement, consider scheduling your skylight replacement at the same time. 

This approach will reduce labor costs associated with the project since the contractors will already have equipment and materials on site.

You might also want to explore energy-efficient options that will help you qualify for tax credits or rebates.  While these units might cost more initially, the long-term savings on energy bills and potential incentives could make them more cost-effective. 

How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Skylight?

Understanding when to replace your skylight will help you plan and budget accordingly. Most skylights have a lifespan of 15 to 40 years, depending on their quality and installation. 

If you notice signs of seal failure, such as condensation between glass panes, or experience recurring leaks despite getting repairs, it might be time to replace the skylight. An old skylight could also be considered for replacement since upgrading it to a more energy-efficient model could be a valuable investment in your home’s comfort and value.

Remember, while the cost of skylight replacement might look a little extra, the benefits like improved energy efficiency, improved natural lighting, and preventing potential water damage make replacing your skylight a worthwhile investment in your home’s future. 

By understanding the costs that go into this project, and what affects them, you can make a truly informed decision that best suits your needs and budget. 

Taking the time to research and plan your skylight replacement ensures you’ll enjoy the benefits of natural light and improved home comfort for years to come.

Get Professional Skylight Installation In Oklahoma

At Capital Roofing, we are known for providing high-quality roofing services in Claremore, and the surrounding areas of Oklahoma. 

While DIY replacements might seem cost-effective, they often lead to wasted time and money, and could potentially damage your home even further. Without the proper expertise, you also risk personal injury during repairs.

Luckily, our local, professional team specializes in skylight repairs, roof replacements, and more, offering honest service at fair prices. We provide free consultations and estimates, just call us at (918) 260-4075 to learn how we can help you!

Skylight Replacement Cost
Skip to content