Thinking about adding a skylight? The biggest concern is always leaks. Here's why ours don't leak: we build a structural curb between the rafters, wrap it in ice-and-water shield, install step flashing on all four sides, and re-shingle around the unit with proper overlap. Then we verify the seal from inside the attic. James City Roofing & Maintenance — leak-free skylight installation in James City.
Tubular skylights are the alternative for spaces where a full skylight isn't practical — small bathrooms, closets, interior hallways. A 10-inch or 14-inch dome on the roof captures daylight through a reflective tube that channels it to a ceiling diffuser. Smaller roof penetration, simpler flashing, and effective daylighting in spaces a traditional skylight can't reach.
Our Skylight Installation Process
Site Assessment
Free on-site assessment. We check your roof structure, identify the optimal position between rafters, and present skylight options with honest pricing. Sun angle analysis included.
Curb Construction
Roof deck opening cut to exact dimensions. Structural curb built between rafters with doubled headers for load transfer. This is the foundation that holds the skylight and carries snow load — it's built to structural standards.
Weather Barrier
Ice-and-water shield wrapped around the entire curb perimeter. Step flashing installed on all four sides, woven into the shingle courses. Counter-flashing at the top integrates with the shingles above. Sealant at every transition point. This flashing system is what prevents leaks — it's the most critical step.
Install & Insulate
Skylight unit set into the curb and flange sealed to the roof deck. Shingles re-laid around the unit with proper overlap. Inside, rigid insulation installed around the light shaft to prevent condensation. Interior trim finished. Watertight verified from the attic.
What James City Customers Say
"From the first phone call to the final walkthrough, everything was seamless. The team was courteous and efficient. Already recommended them to two friends."
"Our neighbors recommended them and now we understand why. Meticulous attention to detail and they treated our home like it was their own."
"Best experience we've ever had with a home service company. On time, on budget, and the results exceeded what we expected. Truly top-notch."
Why Choose James City Roofing & Maintenance for Skylight Installation?
Brand Options
VELUX, Fakro, Sun-Tek — fixed, vented, and tubular models. Tempered and laminated glass. Built-in blinds and shades. We help you choose the right unit for your roof, room, and budget.
Structural Curb Framing
We frame a proper structural curb between your rafters with doubled headers. No flimsy brackets or foam shims. The curb carries the skylight load and provides a solid base for the flashing system.
Roofer-Installed, Not Handyman
James City Roofing & Maintenance is a roofing contractor, not a general handyman. Skylights are roof penetrations — they require roofing expertise, proper flashing materials, and waterproofing knowledge. That's what we do every day.
Insulated Light Shafts
Every skylight installation includes rigid foam insulation around the light shaft. Uninsulated shafts cause condensation and energy loss. We insulate, vapor-seal, and trim the interior for a finished look.