Gordon skylights offer daylighting solutions that improve energy efficiency and living space comfort. This guide presents practical, detailed steps for safely installing Gordon skylights, covering preparation, flashing, sealing, and finishing. It emphasizes correct technique, weatherproofing, and alignment to maximize performance and longevity. Readers should consult the product’s official manual for model-specific instructions and local building codes. The guidance below focuses on common installation practices to help homeowners and professionals achieve a reliable, professional result.
Tools And Safety For Gordon Skylights
Before beginning, assemble essential tools and safety gear. A level, tape measure, reciprocating saw, utility knife, chalk line, and drill are fundamental. You may also need a pry bar, pry knife, silicone sealant, roofing nails or screws, and flashing tape. For safety, use a sturdy ladder, fall protection if working on a roof, eye protection, work gloves, and a helper to manage large skylight units. If the installer is not experienced with roofing work, consider professional installation to ensure correct flashing and waterproofing.
Product Overview And Planning
Understand the Gordon skylight model to be installed. Note the rough opening dimensions, mounting flange size, and recommended fasteners. Check for square and level conditions in the roof framing. Assess attic clearance, interior headroom, and potential shading from nearby structures or trees. Plan ventilation if the model includes venting options. Confirm electrical or solar components if applicable and ensure compliance with local electrical codes. Accurate planning reduces rework and ensures a clean finish.
Prepare The Roof And Interior Opening
Mark the roof opening accurately using the skylight’s template. Ensure the opening aligns with the desired interior placement and any ceiling obstructions. On the exterior, cut through roofing material carefully, avoiding structural members and ensuring a clean edge. Remove all debris from the opening. On the interior, install a temporary support frame if needed to maintain opening integrity during installation. Double-check that there is adequate clearance for the skylight’s lifting mechanism and seals.
Flashing, Weatherproofing, And Drainage
Flashing is critical to prevent leaks. Gordon skylight installation typically involves a curb or flashing flange system. Apply a continuous bead of high-quality roofing sealant along the edge of the opening, then position the curb or base flashing. Install waterproof flashing around the perimeter, ensuring it overlaps roofing materials correctly to direct water away. Use matching flashing tape to seal joints and a weatherproof sealant at all seams. Verify that the drain paths are unobstructed and that the skylight will shed water toward the intended drainage direction.
Install The Skylight Unit
With an assistant, carefully place the skylight into the opening. Center the unit and verify a square fit using a level in both directions. Secure the unit using the manufacturer’s recommended fasteners into the surrounding framing or curb. If the skylight has a built-in curb, fasten through the curb into roof structure at designated locations. Recheck alignment after securing to ensure the top edge is flush with interior finishing and that the unit sits evenly on the curb. Avoid overtightening to prevent warping.
Sealing And Insulation
Seal joints between the skylight flange and the roof with exterior-grade sealant. Apply sealant or insulating spray around the interior perimeter to reduce drafts. Use insulation around the rough opening as specified by Gordon’s guidelines, ensuring no compression of insulation that could pinch seals. For vented models, connect any ductwork or ventilation components per instructions, ensuring airtight seals. Inspect all seams for uniform coating and absence of gaps that could permit moisture intrusion.
Interior Finishing And Trim
Finish the interior around the skylight per the room’s design. Install interior trim or drywall returns up to the skylight’s flange. Seal any interior gaps with low-expansion caulk to minimize movement-related cracking. If a drywall ceiling is present, create a clean edge by beveling or using appropriate trim. Ensure the interior finish does not press on the skylight frame, which could affect operation or seal integrity. Clean the glass and wipe away any excess sealant from visible surfaces.
Electrical And Ventilation Considerations
For skylights with electrical or solar features, follow the included electrical diagrams precisely. Route wiring safely away from heat sources and moisture. Use approved conductors and junction boxes, and install a proper switch or control system. For venting models, verify operable range and mechanical limits to prevent overextension. Test all functions after installation, including rain tests if feasible, to confirm proper operation without leaks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Leakage near edges: Recheck flashing alignment and reseal as needed. Ensure roof shingles overlap the flashing correctly.
- Drafts or air leaks: Inspect interior seals and insulation; add weatherstripping where gaps exist.
- Misalignment: Realign the unit and verify the unit is plumb; minor adjustments may be required.
- Operational stiffness: Lubricate hinges or hardware per manufacturer guidance; ensure no obstructions.
- Condensation: Improve attic ventilation and consider low-emissivity glass or desiccant options if provided.
Maintenance And Longevity
Periodic inspection preserves performance. Check flashing and seals after severe weather, reseal any cracked sealant, and clean the glass to maintain light transmission. Inspect the interior trim for cracks and repaint as needed. Clear debris from around the skylight exterior to prevent water pooling and ensure continued drainage. Replace worn gaskets and seals following the manufacturer’s schedule to maintain warranty coverage and leak resistance.
Safety And Compliance Notes
Follow local building codes and ventilation requirements. Use fall protection on pitched roofs and adhere to ladder safety guidelines. Keep a copy of Gordon skylight installation instructions and the warranty terms accessible during work. If roof structure or flashing details differ from the standard process, consult a professional installer to avoid voiding warranties or creating water intrusion risks.
Additional Resources And References
Consult Gordon’s official product manuals and installation guides for model-specific recommendations. Manufacturer videos, local code supplements, and independent roofing publications offer supplemental guidance. For complex roofs or high-wind regions, additional flashing configurations or fastener patterns may be recommended. Keeping references on hand helps ensure a compliant and durable installation that leverages the skylight’s full performance.