1. Why yearly skylight maintenance matters

Skylights and roof windows brighten homes, lift rooms, and help ventilation. They also sit in the most exposed part of your property – the roof. In Milton Keynes and the surrounding towns, seasonal temperature swings, wind-driven rain, heavy frost, and summer UV all work against seals, flashings, and roof coverings. Even a small imperfection can let water track into the structure. An annual service finds and fixes these issues early, long before you see a drip or a ceiling stain.

Benefits of a yearly skylight service:

• Stops leaks by catching perished gaskets, split sealants, loose tiles, fatigued lead, and incorrectly seated flashing kits before water gets in.
• Reduces heat loss by restoring airtightness around the frame and lining – fewer draughts, less condensation risk, and better winter comfort.
• Extends lifespan by keeping drainage channels clear and moving parts lubricated, reducing wear on hinges and opening lights.
• Protects indoor air quality by ensuring vents and weep holes function correctly so moisture can escape as intended.
• Keeps performance consistent after storms and re-roofing works, and helps maintain manufacturer guidance and warranty conditions where applicable.

Most skylight problems are progressive. Catching them annually is far cheaper than repairing water damage, wet insulation, and redecorating. Call 07311091804 and we will book a convenient slot for your service.

2. What is included in an annual skylight service

Every roof build-up is different, so we tailor our checks to your property. A typical annual service covers the items below and comes with clear recommendations if anything needs further attention.

2.1 External checks and weathering

• Flashing system – Inspect lead, aluminium, or proprietary flashing kits, refix where loose, re-dress lead, and repair minor splits with compatible methods. Ensure upstands and side soakers are correctly detailed.
• Roof covering interface – Check surrounding tiles or slates for cracks and displacement. On flat roofs, assess the membrane tie-in to the curb or frame for splits, bridging, or poor terminations.
• Upstand height and drainage – On flat roofs, confirm a robust curb and suitable height above finished roof level so water cannot pond around the skylight. Confirm clear falls to drainage.
• Drainage and weep channels – Clear moss, leaves, and debris so rainwater can exit freely during downpours.
• Glazing condition – Inspect for micro-cracks, UV crazing on acrylic or polycarbonate domes, and signs of blown units such as misting between panes.
• Fixings and security – Check screws, brackets, and clips for corrosion or loosening and tighten or replace where needed.

2.2 Internal checks and performance

• Air seals and vapour control – Replace tired or perished gaskets where accessible, reinstate air-tightness at the lining, and advise on vapour barrier continuity to keep warm moist air out of the cold roof zone.
• Condensation control – Inspect reveals and plasterboard edges for damp or mould. Recommend insulation and warm-edge upgrades if needed.
• Operation and safety – Test opening lights, restrictors, and trickle vents. Lubricate hinges and locks for smooth, safe function.
• Finishes – Check for water staining, peeling paint, or deteriorated mastic lines and address as minor works where appropriate.

2.3 Minor repairs and materials

• Sealant renewal with compatible long-life products for the specific substrates involved – not generic silicones that fail prematurely.
• Replacement of worn filters and gaskets on popular roof window brands where parts are available.
• Spot patching of lead or flashing kits and membrane termination improvements to restore watertightness.

2.4 Reporting and advice

• Photographic record of the skylight area before and after the visit.
• Clear, itemised recommendations for any optional remedial works or upgrades such as glazing replacement for better thermal performance or a new flashing kit after re-roofing.
• Advice on safe operation and seasonal care, tailored to your roof type and exposure.

Most annual services take 1-2 hours per unit depending on access. For complex or fragile areas we can use drones for non-contact inspection before planning works. Call 07311091804 for availability in Milton Keynes, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, and nearby towns.

3. What happens if you skip maintenance

We often see skylights left for years without a check, and the same patterns come up again and again:

• Slow hidden leaks that soak insulation and timber, causing mould growth and reducing the roof’s thermal performance.
• Rotting battens or curb timbers where minor ingress has persisted over multiple seasons.
• Condensation drips in winter caused by broken internal air seals and blocked drainage paths.
• Cracked or slipped flashing that lets wind-driven rain track beneath tiles or slates during storms.
• Misted double-glazed units that lose insulation and look unsightly.
• Ponding around under-height upstands on flat roofs that accelerates membrane ageing and increases leak risk.

Preventing one leak is usually far cheaper than stripping out wet insulation, replacing damaged linings, and redecorating. An annual visit keeps your roofline steady and predictable.

4. DIY checks vs professional inspection

Safe DIY checks from inside the property:

• Look for misting between glazing panes, mould on the reveals, and any fresh staining after rain.
• Open and close the unit and vents to ensure smooth movement and good seals.
• Listen for rattles or draughts in windy weather that could signal a failing seal.

External checks and most remedial work should be left to trained roofers due to height risks, fragile surfaces, and the need for correct materials and methods. Never step on domes, lantern glazing, or plasterboard ceilings in lofts. Our team is fully insured, works to industry best practice, and uses the right safety equipment and materials for each roof type.

Prefer a quick, professional check and service – including photos and clear recommendations – from a local family business you can trust. Call 07311091804.

5. UK Building Regulations and compliance

Routine maintenance does not normally require Building Control. Replacement or refurbishment can, especially when structure or energy performance is affected. We work to best practice and will advise the correct route for your project. Some key areas we consider:

• Part A – Structure: If a replacement is heavier, larger, or requires trimming or strengthening of rafters, we assess loads and opening details so the roof remains structurally sound.
• Part B – Fire safety: Detailing must not compromise fire performance. Continuity of fire stopping and cavity barriers is vital in loft conversions and attached properties.
• Part C – Resistance to moisture: Proper flashing, upstand heights, and correct vapour control reduce the risk of rain ingress and condensation.
• Part F – Ventilation: Roof windows can provide purge ventilation. We ensure vents and openings operate as designed to support healthy indoor air.
• Part L – Conservation of fuel and power: Replacements should meet current glazing efficiency requirements. If more than 25 percent of a roof area is refurbished, insulation upgrades are typically triggered.

For like-for-like replacements and larger roof refurbishment, we can coordinate with Local Authority Building Control or a recognised competent person scheme. You will always receive clear guidance before work begins.

6. Skylight types we maintain and repair

• Roof windows such as VELUX and similar – gasket and filter renewal, flashing kit checks, hinge lubrication, alignment, and glazing upgrades.
• Flat roof domes and flat glass units – acrylic and polycarbonate domes, flat glass on timber, GRP or EPDM curbs, sealant renewal and membrane tie-in checks.
• Roof lanterns and atriums – silicone and gasket integrity, drainage paths, thermal break checks, and frame alignment.
• Bespoke and legacy rooflights – sympathetic maintenance and advice on refurbishment vs replacement where parts are obsolete.

If a unit is nearing end-of-life or you want improved thermal performance and noise reduction, we can discuss options during the service and provide a no-obligation quote.

7. Costs, timings and booking

We provide free, no-obligation quotes. Pricing depends on roof type, access, skylight size and age, and the condition of flashings and surrounding materials. Most annual services are completed in a single visit per unit. If we discover issues like a fatigued flashing kit or failed glazing, we will price and schedule the extra works clearly before proceeding.

What can influence cost and time:

• Access complexity – number of storeys, roof pitch, fragile coverings, or need for access equipment.
• Roof covering condition – tiles, slates, GRP, felt or EPDM membranes, and their tie-in to the skylight curb.
• Age and make of the skylight – parts availability and suitability for repair vs replacement.

You will always receive a written quotation with clear options where appropriate. Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk to book.

8. Local case study: leak prevention in Milton Keynes

Property: Semi-detached home in Great Linford with a 12-year-old roof window over a landing.

Symptoms: Occasional winter staining on the ceiling below after heavy, wind-driven rain.

Findings: Blocked weep channels, a perished lower gasket, and a small fatigue split in the lead flashing at the lower left side where water was tracking under adjacent tiles.

Works completed: Cleaned and flushed all drainage channels, replaced filters and gaskets with compatible parts, re-dressed the lead flashing and carried out a small patch repair using a lead-compatible system, then reinstated the internal vapour seal at the lining. We also advised on a short-term ventilation routine to help dry the reveal.

Outcome: Staining faded naturally over two weeks. No further ingress through the winter storm period. The customer avoided a ceiling replacement and kept the existing skylight in reliable service.

9. Why choose Maxwells Roofing

• Local and family-owned – We work across Milton Keynes daily, including Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Stony Stratford, Bradwell, and surrounding villages.
• Owner-led quality – Company owner Luke Maxwell oversees workmanship and materials on every job for consistent results.
• Highly reviewed – 80+ 5★ Checkatrade reviews and 5★ on Google Business.
• Fully insured and qualified – Safe working at height, correct materials, and manufacturer-aligned methods.
• Fast response – Same-day or next-day for urgent issues wherever possible.
• Clear pricing – No hidden extras, written quotes, and practical options explained in plain English.

From minor repairs to full replacements, we recommend the most practical, long-lasting solution for your home and budget.

10. Skylight maintenance FAQs

How often should a skylight be serviced?

We recommend a full check every 12 months. Properties in exposed or elevated positions can benefit from checks every 6-12 months.

How do I know if my skylight is leaking?

Look for damp smells, fresh staining on the ceiling below, mould on the reveals, or drips after wind-driven rain. Misting inside the glazing cavity shows a blown sealed unit which affects insulation and appearance but is not a direct water leak.

Can you service roof lanterns on flat roofs?

Yes. We check frame alignment, gaskets, silicone lines, curb condition, and the membrane tie-in so the assembly remains watertight and well drained.

Will maintenance keep my warranty valid?

Using compatible materials and approved methods supports warranty conditions. We follow manufacturer guidance where available and advise when a replacement is more sensible than repair.

Do I need Building Control for replacement?

Often yes, especially if you change size, structure, or thermal performance, or when wider roof refurbishments are planned. We will advise on the correct route and coordinate where needed.

How long does an annual service take?

Typically 1-2 hours per unit depending on access and condition. If further repairs or parts are needed, we will schedule a convenient return visit.

11. Areas we cover

Milton Keynes, Stony Stratford, Newport Pagnell, Bletchley, Great Linford, Bradwell, Northampton, Bedford, Luton, and all nearby estates and villages.

Get your free skylight maintenance quote

Protect your home from leaks, reduce heat loss, and keep your skylight performing with a quick annual service from Maxwells Roofing – your family-owned local roofer in Milton Keynes.

Call 07311091804 or email sales@miltonkeynesroofing.uk to book your visit. While you are here, you may also be interested in our related services such as Roof Repairs, Gutter Maintenance, Skylight Installations, Flat Roof Systems, and Roof Inspections.