Skylight Installation for Commercial Roofing: What Every Building Owner Needs to Know

Skylights are one of those upgrades that feel small, but can have a major impact on your building’s comfort, lighting, and energy performance. But like everything in commercial roofing, how they’re installed makes all the difference.

I’m Travis Haessly, owner of The Roof Champion of Columbus. My team installs, repairs, and replaces skylights across Central Ohio—always to give you long-term value, not short-term shortcuts.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking about skylights on your commercial property.

Why Add Skylights to Your Commercial Roof?

Here’s why smart owners and facility managers choose skylights:

• Natural light reduces electricity use and creates a more pleasant interior for staff and customers.

• Modern skylights are energy-efficient, with insulated glass and UV coatings that control heat gain/loss.

• Skylights improve air circulation (when operable) and can help with passive cooling.

• In certain cases, daylighting improves employee productivity and morale.

But to get those benefits, installation has to be done right—from the framing to the flashing to the waterproofing.

Key Considerations Before Installing Skylights

Adding skylights to a flat or low-slope commercial roof isn’t as simple as cutting a hole and dropping in glass. You need to plan for:

1. Roof Type and Structure

We always inspect your current roofing system. Why?

• Some membrane systems require special curb designs.

• Metal roofs need different attachment methods to account for thermal movement.

• Decking materials (like wood vs. steel) affect how curbs are fastened.

2. Curb and Flashing Installation

Flashing is critical. Water intrusion at the skylight is one of the top causes of roof leaks. We follow these best practices:

• Fully welded or sealed curbs, sized to match skylight manufacturer specs.

• High-temp ice and water shield or reinforced membrane around the curb.

• Metal counterflashing integrated into the roofing system—not just surface-taped.

When you hire us, you’re not just getting a skylight—you’re getting peace of mind that it won’t leak down the line.

3. Building Code Compliance

We make sure your skylights comply with the 2021 IBC and local jurisdiction codes. That means:

• Proper fall protection guards (if the skylight is accessible).

• Structural reinforcement if your deck isn’t rated for the added load.

• U-factor and SHGC requirements for energy efficiency.

Common Commercial Skylight Installation Scenarios

We’ve installed skylights across a wide range of commercial buildings in Columbus and beyond. Here are a few examples:

🏭 Industrial Warehouse in Grove City

The owner wanted to cut down on overhead lighting costs. We installed 12 impact-rated, domed skylights with welded curbs on a TPO roof. The light levels inside went up—and their electric bill went down.

🏫 School Facility in Worthington

Retrofit installation on a modified bitumen roof. We replaced failing acrylic skylights with insulated glass units and corrected improper flashing that had led to ceiling stains. No more leaks, no more call-backs.

FAQ: Commercial Skylight Installation

How long does commercial skylight installation take?

For retrofit installs, we can often complete 1–2 units per day. Larger or custom projects may take several days depending on deck conditions, weather, and curb modifications.

Do skylights increase roof leak risk?

Only if they’re installed poorly. Our method ensures full waterproofing, proper slope for drainage, and code-compliant materials that are built to last.

Can skylights be added to an existing roof system?

Yes, but we’ll need to inspect your roof membrane, decking, and warranty terms. Some manufacturer warranties require specific curbs or flashing methods for modifications.

Why Choose The Roof Champion of Columbus?

We don’t install skylights “just to make them look nice.” We install them to protect your building, boost your energy performance, and eliminate future headaches.

• Experienced with all commercial roof types (TPO, EPDM, metal, mod bit, BUR)

• Precision-built curbs and flashing

• OSHA-compliant safety protocols

• Licensed, insured, and local to Columbus

We treat your building like it’s our own. Because that’s how it should be.

Need an estimate or inspection? Call me directly at (614) 639-3422, or visit www.roofchampcolumbus.com.