Why does my skylight drip only in winter?

It may be condensation on cold glass, not a leak. A roofer can check the flashing and seals.

Can an unused chimney be removed?

Often, yes, down below the roof, with the roof closed over. Check with your local building department.

Skylight & Chimney Flashing Repair in Madison, WI

Chimney flashing

Good chimney flashing has two layers: step flashing woven into the shingles and counter-flashing set into the mortar joints. Caulk alone isn't a lasting fix.

Crickets

A cricket is a small peaked section on the uphill side of a wide chimney. It splits water and snow around the chimney instead of letting them pile up behind it.

Brick and mortar

Crumbling mortar and spalling brick let water into the chimney itself. A mason may need to repoint before the roofer reflashes.

Skylight leaks

Older skylights often leak at the frame or the seal between the glass and frame. Condensation on the glass in winter can also drip and look like a leak.

Replace with the roof

If a skylight is old, replacing it when the roof is replaced avoids tearing into new shingles later.

Snow and ice

Snow drifts behind chimneys and on the uphill side of skylights, and meltwater can back up under flashing. Crickets and good flashing help.

Older Madison homes

Many homes near the isthmus have tall chimneys from old coal or oil furnaces. Unused chimneys can sometimes be removed below the roofline.

Get it repaired

Let the roofer know where the stain appears. Send a request and a roofer will get in touch.

Chimney caps

A cap keeps rain, snow and animals out of the flue. On an active chimney it should be the right type for the appliance it serves; on an unused one, it stops water running straight down inside.

Choosing a new skylight

Modern skylights come with flashing kits made for the roof type and options such as venting and blinds. Ask whether the kit includes an underlayment collar, which adds protection against ice and water.