Kenilworth homes built mid-century often have original skylights set into asphalt shingle roofs that have seen decades of humid summers followed by freezing winters. Condensation builds under the glass when indoor heat meets the cold outer pane, leading to rot in the surrounding decking around Black Brook Park neighborhoods. Replacement requires removing the old unit, inspecting for deck damage, and installing new flashing that ties into existing shingles without creating new leak points at the curb.
Union County building practices favor curb-mounted units on low-slope sections common in ranch and split-level houses found between Kenilworth and Cranford. In winter, snow loads and ice dams push water under poorly sealed edges, so we use self-adhered underlayment extending at least six inches past the curb and step-flashing that integrates with the existing roof plane. Hot summer expansion can crack older polycarbonate domes, which is why we match replacement units to the roof's existing pitch and ventilation needs.
When replacing skylights on commercial properties in Roselle Park or Union, we check for HVAC penetrations and roof-mounted equipment that can shed water onto the new unit. Proper counter-flashing prevents wind-driven rain from entering during the frequent thunderstorms that hit the area. We also verify the new skylight meets current energy code requirements for U-factor in heated spaces.
Technician insight
In Kenilworth, the thing that catches most people out with Skylight Replacement is hidden deck rot from repeated ice dam cycles around Black Brook Park. Older mid-century homes here have thin sheathing that softens after years of freeze-thaw, so the job often turns into a small deck repair once the old unit comes off.
Ice Dam Leak on Mid-Century Ranch
A homeowner near Kenilworth Public Library noticed water stains around a living-room skylight after a cold snap. We found the original curb flashing had lifted from repeated ice dams. We removed the unit, replaced a section of softened decking, and installed a new curb-mounted skylight with extended underlayment. No further leaks appeared the following winter.
Skylight Replacement Services We Offer
✓Curb-Mounted Skylight Replacement
Removes aging curb units and installs new ones with updated flashing to prevent ice dam leaks common in Kenilworth winters.
✓Tubular Skylight Replacement
Swaps outdated tubular units for brighter, better-sealed models that reduce condensation in humid Union County summers.
✓Velux Skylight Replacement
Direct replacement of Velux units with matching models, including new deck seals suited to older Kenilworth roof decks.
✓Fixed Skylight to Venting Conversion
Converts non-opening skylights to venting models for better attic airflow in homes near Black Brook Park.
✓Skylight Flashing Repair and Replacement
Replaces damaged step and counter flashing around skylights to stop leaks from Union County freeze-thaw cycles.
Skylight Replacement Cost in Kenilworth, NJ
| Service | Typical Range | What Affects It |
|---|---|---|
| Standard curb skylight replacement | $950–$1,800 | Size and roof pitch affect final cost |
| Tubular skylight replacement | $450–$850 | Simpler install on most Kenilworth homes |
| Flashing and underlayment upgrade | $300–$600 | Required when ice dam damage is present |
| Deck repair add-on | $150–$400 | Per sheet of plywood on older Union County roofs |
Ranges are typical for Kenilworth, NJ and confirmed with an exact written quote before any work starts.
How it works
- 1
Site Inspection
We examine the existing skylight, roof deck condition, and surrounding shingles from both inside the attic and on the roof.
- 2
Unit Removal
Old skylight and flashing are carefully removed while protecting the roof membrane and checking for hidden deck rot.
- 3
Deck Preparation
Any damaged sheathing is replaced and new self-adhered underlayment is applied around the opening.
- 4
New Installation
The replacement skylight is set, flashed, and integrated with existing shingles for a watertight seal.
- 5
Final Check
Interior and exterior seams are inspected and tested for leaks before cleanup.
Pricing
Pricing varies by skylight size, roof access, and any deck repairs needed. We provide upfront quotes during the inspection.