Thinking about adding a skylight? The biggest concern is always leaks. Here's why ours don't leak: we build a structural curb between the rafters, wrap it in ice-and-water shield, install step flashing on all four sides, and re-shingle around the unit with proper overlap. Then we verify the seal from inside the attic. Shanks Roofing & Maintenance — leak-free skylight installation in Shanks.
The curb is the foundation of every skylight installation. We frame it between existing trusses or rafters with doubled lumber to carry the load. The roof deck opening is cut precisely — no oversizing that weakens the sheathing. The skylight flange seals to the curb, and the flashing system integrates the unit into the existing shingle field so water runs over the flashing, not under it.
Our Skylight Installation Process
Site Assessment
We assess your roof from above and inside the attic. We locate the trusses and rafters, check the roof deck sheathing condition, and identify the best skylight placement for natural light based on sun angle, room layout, and roof pitch.
Structural Prep
Roof deck opening cut to exact dimensions. Structural curb built between rafters with doubled headers for load transfer. This is the foundation that holds the skylight and carries snow load — it's built to structural standards.
Flashing & Waterproofing
Full flashing system: ice-and-water shield base layer, step flashing and counter-flashing on all four sides, woven into the existing shingle field. Water flows over the flashing and onto the shingles below — never behind them.
Completion
Skylight unit set into the curb and flange sealed to the roof deck. Shingles re-laid around the unit with proper overlap. Inside, rigid insulation installed around the light shaft to prevent condensation. Interior trim finished. Watertight verified from the attic.
What Shanks Customers Say
"Responded fast and got the job done right the first time. Crew was polite, professional, and cleaned up everything. Would absolutely hire again."
"Our neighbors recommended them and now we understand why. Meticulous attention to detail and they treated our home like it was their own."
"We called expecting to wait days, but they were here the same afternoon. Fair pricing, quality work, and they kept us informed every step of the way."
Why Choose Shanks Roofing & Maintenance for Skylight Installation?
Code Compliant
Every skylight installation meets WV building code for structural framing, energy performance, and egress requirements. Permits pulled when required.
Brand Options
VELUX, Fakro, Sun-Tek — fixed, vented, and tubular models. Tempered and laminated glass. Built-in blinds and shades. We help you choose the right unit for your roof, room, and budget.
Roofer-Installed, Not Handyman
Shanks Roofing & Maintenance is a roofing contractor, not a general handyman. Skylights are roof penetrations — they require roofing expertise, proper flashing materials, and waterproofing knowledge. That's what we do every day.
Structural Curb Framing
We frame a proper structural curb between your rafters with doubled headers. No flimsy brackets or foam shims. The curb carries the skylight load and provides a solid base for the flashing system.