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Keep the Light Shining: Skylight Maintenance for Philly Homes
Installing Philadelphia skylights is an investment in your home’s future. To protect that investment, regular maintenance is required. Philadelphia’s specific environment—urban grime, autumn leaves, and heavy snow—requires homeowners to be proactive.

1. Regular Cleaning (Interior and Exterior)

The Exterior: In the city, soot and dust from traffic can settle on the glass, dimming the light. Clean the exterior glass once a year with mild soapy water. Tip: For rowhomes with flat roofs, this is easy. For pitched roofs, use a long-handled squeegee or hire a window cleaning pro.
The Interior: Dust and spiderwebs can accumulate in the light shaft. A telescoping duster is your best friend here.

2. Inspect for Water Damage

The "Ceiling Check": After the first heavy rainstorm of the season, inspect the ceiling drywall around the skylight. Look for discoloration, peeling tape, or bubbling paint.
Early Detection: Catching a leak early means a $200 caulk repair. Ignoring it leads to a $2,000 ceiling replacement.

3. Check Flashing and Seals

The Critical Seal: The flashing is the metal or rubber apron that joins the glass to the roof.
Debris Removal: On flat roofs, leaves from street trees can pile up around the skylight curb. This wet debris can rot the flashing or block drainage, forcing water up under the unit. Clear this debris every fall.

4. Manage Condensation

Humidity Control: If you see "sweat" on the inside of the glass, it’s likely not a leak—it’s humidity. Run exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens for 20 minutes after use.
Air Circulation: Ensure the air in the room can circulate near the skylight to prevent stagnant, moist air from getting trapped in the shaft.

5. Seasonal Care Checklist

Spring: Check for cracks caused by winter ice or hail. Clean off winter grime.
Summer: Test the opening mechanism (if vented) to ensure it moves smoothly. Lubricate the chain drive if necessary.
Fall: Clear leaves from the roof and gutters to prevent water backup.
Winter: Monitor for ice dams. Do not try to chip ice off the glass with a shovel—you will scratch or crack it.

6. Professional Inspections

It is wise to have a roofing contractor inspect your skylights every 3–5 years. They can spot drying/cracking rubber gaskets that an untrained eye would miss.

Conclusion
Skylights are generally low maintenance, but they aren't "no maintenance." A little bit of care ensures they remain clear, watertight, and efficient for decades