Why Your Skylight Is Leaking and How We Fix It

Skylight leaking or dripping in Milton Keynes? Maxwells Roofing finds the root cause fast and fixes it properly. We’re an owner‑led, local team (Luke Maxwell) with 80+ 5‑star Checkatrade reviews and only 5‑star Google reviews, serving Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell and nearby areas.

What’s covered
- Leak vs condensation (60‑second check): If water appears only on cold mornings or after showers, it’s likely condensation. During/after rain or wind suggests an external leak. Fogging between panes means a failed sealed unit. Brown/tan tide marks indicate water ingress above the skylight.
- Common causes: Incorrect or worn flashing, perished seals/gaskets, faulty underlay or missing collars, flat roof kerb too low, pitch/profile mismatches, blocked valleys/gutters, cracked glazing/failed DGUs, storm or installation damage.
- Diagnosis (step‑by‑step): Interior inspection and moisture readings, roof‑level assessment (pitched/flat roofs), controlled water testing, then a photo report with a clear, itemised quote. Same‑day/next‑day call‑outs where possible.
- Repairs & replacements: Correct flashing kits and underfelt collars, new seals/gaskets, tile/slate repairs, flat roof kerb rebuilds and membrane integration (EPDM/GRP/bitumen), glazing/DGU swaps, modern skylight upgrades, and targeted condensation fixes (ventilation, insulation, vapour control layers, sealing liners). We’ll recommend replacement only when it’s the smarter long‑term option.
- Costs & timelines (typical): Minor reseals (hours), new flashing + collar (half–1 day), flat roof kerb + membrane (1–2 days), full replacements (half–2 days). Expect fixed quotes, premium materials, tidy working and owner‑led oversight.
- Regulations & safety: Work to UK Building Regulations (Parts A, B, C, F, L). We advise on Building Control where needed and liaise with Milton Keynes Building Control.
- Emergency signs: Active dripping, bulging/sagging plasterboard, mould or musty smells, water near electrics.

Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk.

Why Your Skylight Is Leaking and How We Fix It (Milton Keynes)

If your skylight is dripping, staining the ceiling or fogging up, you are not alone – skylight issues are among the most common problems we are called to diagnose across Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Great Linford, Bradwell and nearby areas. Maxwells Roofing is a trusted, family-run local company led by Luke Maxwell, with 80+ 5-star Checkatrade reviews and only 5-star Google reviews. We find the root cause fast and fix it properly so your home stays dry and comfortable.

Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

Introduction: Skylight leaking? You are in the right place

A skylight should add daylight and ventilation – not drips and damp patches. Whether you have a VELUX-style window on a pitched roof or a flat roof dome or flat glass unit, the water path is always traceable. Our job is to find it quickly, explain it clearly and fix it in a way that lasts. Because we work on MK roofs every day, we know the local roof types, common installation pitfalls and how recent storms have affected specific estates and villages. That local knowledge, combined with owner-led oversight, is why homeowners trust our advice and our workmanship.

We offer same-day or next-day call-outs where possible and provide clear photos and a written quote before any work begins.

Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

Is it a leak or condensation? A quick 60-second check

Before assuming the skylight is leaking from outside, rule out internal moisture. Condensation can drip from frames or collect as droplets on the glass and look exactly like a leak.

  • When does the water appear:
    • Only on cold mornings, after showers or when cooking, or when the heating first goes on – likely condensation.
    • During or shortly after rain or strong wind – likely an external leak.
  • Fogging between the panes: Mist between the glass layers indicates a failed double glazed unit seal, not room-side condensation.
  • Touch test: Moisture on the inside frame or plaster with no rainfall outside often points to ventilation or vapour control issues.
  • Ceiling stain colour: Tan or brown tide marks that spread outward from the opening usually indicate rainwater tracking from above the skylight or via the flashing detail.

Not sure which it is? We will check it for you and explain the best fix. Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

Top causes of skylight leaks in Milton Keynes homes

1) Incorrect, worn or poorly fitted flashing

Flashing is the weathering system that integrates your skylight with the roof covering. Common problems we see locally:

  • Wrong flashing kit for the tile or slate profile, or for the roof pitch.
  • Loose, corroded or missing step flashing pieces.
  • Head or apron flashings that are too short or poorly lapped, letting wind-driven rain in during storms.

Older roof windows with mismatched kits or DIY installs that never sealed properly are frequent culprits across MK estates.

2) Perished seals and gaskets

Rubber gaskets and perimeter sealants harden and crack over time. UV, temperature cycling and movement around the aperture all accelerate wear, allowing water to find small gaps.

3) Underlay and secondary weathering faults

Under-roof membranes must be correctly lapped and directed into a drainage path. Around roof windows, manufacturer collars or upstands are needed to shed water. Incorrect trimming or missing collars lets water track under tiles toward the opening.

4) Flat roof skylight kerb too low

On flat roofs, the skylight must sit on a kerb of adequate height – typically around 150 mm above the finished roof level. Low kerbs encourage splashback and ponding against the frame, causing leaks at junctions.

5) Roof pitch or tile profile mismatch

Every unit and flashing kit has a minimum and maximum pitch. Using a kit outside its design range or on the wrong profile creates capillary action and small entry points that show up in sideways rain.

6) Blocked valleys or gutters above the skylight

Debris diverts water from its intended path. Heavy downpours then force water into weak points around the unit. We often find leaves or moss build-up directly above leaking skylights.

7) Cracked glazing or failed double glazing unit

Impacts and age can crack domes or panes. Failed sealed units admit moisture and can let water track inside the sash or frame.

8) Storm or installation damage

High winds move tiles, lift lead, pop fixings and deform flashings. Poorly prepared openings and rushed installs leave voids that only reveal themselves in the first heavy rain.

How we diagnose your skylight leak – step by step

Step 1. Interior assessment

  • Inspect ceilings, reveals and plaster around the opening for water tracks.
  • Use moisture readings to map hidden damp and confirm the water path.
  • Differentiation between condensation and true ingress so you do not pay for the wrong fix.

Step 2. Roof-level checks

  • Examine flashing kits, tiles or slates, battens and underlay laps.
  • Check roof pitch and tile profile against the fitted flashing kit and manufacturer guide.
  • For flat roofs: assess the membrane type and condition, kerb height, terminations and any ponding or backfalls.

Step 3. Controlled water testing when useful

  • Apply water progressively at the head, then sides, then glazing seals to isolate the exact entry point without saturating the build-up.

Step 4. Photo report and clear quote

  • We show you photos or short clips, explain what is happening and set out your options in plain English.
  • No pressure – just honest advice from an owner-led team.

Urgent issue? Same-day or next-day call-outs are often available. Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

How we fix it: proven repair and replacement options

A) Pitched roof windows and skylights

  • Replace or upgrade flashing kits to the correct type for your tile or slate and roof pitch.
  • Install manufacturer underfelt or secondary weathering collars so any water on the underlay drains safely away.
  • Renew perished gaskets and seals, and re-fix or replace step flashing and head or apron sections.
  • Replace damaged tiles or slates and secure battens or underlay around the opening to best practice.
  • If the glazing unit has failed or the frame is near end-of-life, we can:
    • Replace the sealed unit, or
    • Supply and fit a modern roof window with improved thermal performance and background ventilation for healthier air.

B) Flat roof skylights – domes, flat glass and lanterns

  • Raise or rebuild kerbs to best-practice height for splash resistance.
  • Re-form and dress membranes to the kerb using correct primers, tapes and edge trims for EPDM, GRP or bitumen systems.
  • Replace cracked or crazed acrylic domes and failed flat glass units with compatible, warrantied products.
  • Address ponding by improving falls so water moves away from the skylight.

C) Fixing condensation – stop the false leaks

  • Improve room or loft ventilation with trickle vents or controlled measures where appropriate.
  • Upgrade insulation and add a proper vapour control layer to reduce warm, moist air reaching cold surfaces.
  • Seal internal liners and junctions to prevent air leakage around the skylight opening.

D) When replacement is the smarter choice

We repair whenever it is sensible. We recommend replacement when:

  • Frames are warped, rotten or severely perished.
  • The sealed unit has failed and the window is near end-of-life.
  • The flashing system is obsolete or has repeatedly failed.
  • You want more daylight, a size change or a comfort upgrade.

Either way, you will get clear options, pricing and timescales. Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

Costs, timescales and what to expect

Every roof and skylight is different, but here is a helpful guide to typical time on site:

  • Minor reseal or re-flash adjustments: a few hours.
  • New flashing kit with underfelt collar: half to one day depending on access and covering.
  • Flat roof kerb rebuild with membrane integration: 1 to 2 days.
  • Full skylight replacement: half to one day on pitched roofs, 1 to 2 days on flat roofs including kerb and membrane details.

What you can expect from us:

  • Itemised quotes with photos of the exact issue.
  • Owner-led oversight by Luke Maxwell and qualified roofers on site.
  • Premium materials matched to your roof type and manufacturer guidance.
  • Respectful, tidy working and clear communication.

For an accurate estimate, we will inspect and advise free of charge. Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

Building Regulations, compliance and safety

We repair and install skylights in line with UK Building Regulations and manufacturer instructions to ensure safety, durability and performance.

  • Structure: We check rafters and trimmers when openings are altered or enlarged. Heavier lanterns may need extra support.
  • Fire safety: Components and roof systems must maintain appropriate fire performance. Flat roof coverings for new systems should meet the relevant classification for external fire exposure.
  • Moisture: Correct flashing and underlay laps prevent rainwater ingress and reduce condensation risk.
  • Ventilation: Replacement windows can include trickle vents and we will advise on healthy airflow in line with current guidance.
  • Energy: Where relevant, we discuss insulation or glazing upgrades to improve energy efficiency.

Building Control: If more than 25 percent of a roof is being refurbished or if structural changes are needed, notification is required. We will advise you, liaise with Milton Keynes Building Control where appropriate and provide documentation on completion.

Have questions about compliance for your project? Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

Why choose Maxwells Roofing for skylight leaks in Milton Keynes

  • Local specialists: We work on MK roofs daily – from Bletchley to Bradwell, Newport Pagnell to Stony Stratford.
  • Owner-led quality: Company owner Luke Maxwell oversees your job for consistent standards.
  • Outstanding reputation: 80+ 5-star reviews on Checkatrade and only 5-star ratings on Google Business.
  • Fast call-outs: Same-day or next-day help for active leaks wherever possible.
  • Transparent pricing: No hidden extras, clear itemised quotes and honest advice.
  • Full-service roofing: Repairs, re-roofs, skylights, gutters, chimneys and inspections.

Service area: Milton Keynes, Northampton, Bedford, Luton, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell and all nearby towns and villages.

Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

Emergency signs: when to call immediately

  • Active dripping during rain or visible water trails on the frame or plaster.
  • Bulging, sagging or stained plasterboard around the opening.
  • Peeling paint, mould growth or persistent musty smells.
  • Water marks near electrical fittings or extractor fans.

We aim to make the area safe and watertight quickly, then complete a permanent repair or replacement as needed. Call Us Now For A Free Quote on 07311091804

FAQs: skylight leaks, repairs and maintenance

Do you offer free quotes in Milton Keynes?

Yes – inspections and quotes are free and no obligation.

Can you fix a skylight leak on the same day?

Often, yes for minor issues. If specific parts are required, we will make the area safe and return promptly to complete the work.

How do I know if I need a new skylight or just a repair?

We will show you photos and explain the options. If the flashing or underlay detail has failed, a repair can be ideal. If frames or glazing are perished or obsolete, a replacement is usually more cost effective and reliable.

Will a new skylight help with condensation?

Modern units with better glazing and trickle vents, plus improved insulation and vapour control, significantly reduce condensation risk when combined with adequate room ventilation.

Do you work on all skylight types?

Yes – roof windows, flat glass skylights, acrylic domes and roof lanterns on pitched and flat roofs. We match the correct flashing and membrane details to your roof covering.

Are your repairs compliant with UK regulations?

Yes. We follow current guidance and manufacturer instructions. Where Building Control notification is needed, we will advise and help you with the process.

Do you cover areas outside Milton Keynes?

Yes – we cover Northampton, Bedford, Luton and all surrounding villages.

What if my skylight leaks only in winter?

This often points to condensation rather than rain ingress. We will assess ventilation, insulation and vapour control and recommend the right fix.

Book your free inspection

Do not let a small drip become major water damage. Our local, owner-led team will find the cause and fix it correctly, using quality materials and proven methods.

If you also need help with other parts of your roof, we can assist with Emergency Roofing, thorough Roof Inspections, reliable Gutter Maintenance, expert Skylight Installations and fast, effective Roof Repairs.