Four Maintenance Tips For New Velux Skylights
There are several reasons why homeowners install skylights into their homes. However, one of the most common reasons in Queensland is to take advantage of the 300 plus days of sunshine each year. Even in the dead of winter, natural sunlight streaming into the home banishes away the gloom and cold associated with winter days. Once a skylight is in place, you must regularly maintain them for two reasons. Firstly, you want to ensure the skylight has a long lifespan. Secondly, dirty skylight panes cannot let in maximum sunlight. Here are four maintenance tips for new Velux skylight owners to perform twice a year.
Interior Skylight Glass
For cleaning interior skylight glass, you need water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. You do not require chemical products for cleaning skylight glass. Slightly dampen the cleaning cloth with warm water and wipe it over the glass pane. Warm water is better than cold because it easily dissolves dirt and grime. After removing all surface debris, wipe over the pane again with a soft, dry cloth. This secondary wipe over removes any water streaks. You must never attempt to clean the glass with an abrasive chemical as it may scratch the glass. If you have interior glass stains which are not lifting off with water, contact the skylight manufacturer for specific advice.
Exterior Skylight Glass
Cleaning the exterior skylight glass follows the same process as the interior but involves getting onto the roof to perform this maintenance. If you are not confident working at height, arrange a handyman to perform this task for you. Be sure to let them know about not using chemicals or abrasives on the exterior pane. While on the roof cleaning the external pane, clean the flashing.
Exterior Flashing
Queensland is well known for its ferocious summer storms, so finding tree and leaf buildup on the roof is not uncommon. While you, or your handyman, clean the exterior glass pane, remove all debris lodged in the exterior flashing around the skylight. The flashing is similar to a gutter; you must keep it clear to allow rainwater to drain away.
Skylight Surround
The skylight surround is made of wood or aluminium, depending on your product choice. Cleaning either surface of dust and debris involves wiping over it with a soft, damp cloth. Make sure you check the surround for any damage while wiping it clean. For example, if the skylight experiences excessive condensation, this moisture buildup may damage the skylight surrounding over time. Early damage detection makes for an easier repair.
Contact the installer or manufacturer directly if you have any other questions about maintaining your Velux skylight.