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How to install a skylight

Installing a skylight is a popular home improvement project that adds unique style along with the promise of improved energy efficiency. A skylight brings in natural light, reducing the demand for electricity.

It allows you to save money on utility bills without compromising a well-lit room. Skylights can be placed in any room, but are best suited for a bathroom, hallway, kitchen or another area of the home that relies on artificial lighting.

The construction process of installing a skylight involves cutting a hole in the roof, installing a frame for the opening, building a support system for the skylight and ultimately placing the window in the framed area.

Naturally, the process can be dangerous for those who lack experience working on ladders or on sloped roofs, so it is important to hire a professional if you have never completed a project of this nature.

One option for homeowners is to hire an experienced handyman to complete the job.To find the best price and best service available, you should interview several reputable handymen in your area. It’s important to discuss prior work experience as not all handymen will be able to properly install a skylight.

However, some homeowners may have the right amount of DIY experience to take on the project themselves. Us the following guide if you attempt to install a skylight in your home.

1. The first step is to cut and frame the opening of the roof. You can do this by drilling a locator hole in the center of the skylight's future location and then cut the opening with a circular saw from a position on the roof.

2. Following this step, you will want to frame the opening by installing header joists perpendicular to the ceiling joists. With a straightedge and a utility knife, cut the roof shingles approximately three inches back from the opening on each side.

3. Center the skylight on the opening and secure it to the roof with nails or screws.

4. Once the skylight is in place, you will want to cut 8-inch wide strips of roofing paper and place them under the shingles. Start by installing the bottom piece, then move on to the sides, and finish off with the top.

5. You will need to use a flat pry bar to lift off any roofing nails that get in your way while working.

6. From here you will need to install bottom flashing, step flashing and solid flashing pieces. With each piece, you will want to install the bottom first, followed by the sides, and finish it off by slipping the top piece under the roof and securing it to the skylight.

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