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. Southgate Roofing & Maintenance — leak-free skylight installation in Southgate.
The curb is the foundation of every skylight installation. We frame it between existing trusses or rafters with doubled lumber to carry the load. The roof deck opening is cut precisely — no oversizing that weakens the sheathing. The skylight flange seals to the curb, and the flashing system integrates the unit into the existing shingle field so water runs over the flashing, not under it.
Our Skylight Installation Process
Site Assessment
Our estimator visits your Southgate home, inspects the attic framing, and recommends skylight size, type, and placement. We show you product options — fixed, vented, tubular — and provide a detailed written estimate.
Structural Prep
Precise opening cut through the roof deck. Structural curb framed between trusses with load-bearing headers. Every cut edge of the sheathing sealed. The curb is the structural foundation — we don't skimp on the framing.
Weather Barrier
Self-adhering ice-and-water shield on all curb faces. Step flashing along both sides lapped under each shingle course. Head flashing at the top, apron flashing at the bottom. Waterproof sealant at every overlap and transition. The flashing makes or breaks the installation.
Install & Insulate
Unit installed and sealed. Light shaft insulated and trimmed. We verify the seal from inside the attic — if we can see any daylight at the flashing joints, we re-seal before we leave. Your skylight is watertight and energy-efficient.
What Southgate Customers Say
"After getting several quotes, these guys stood out with their honesty and knowledge. No pressure, just straightforward advice and excellent workmanship."
"Responded fast and got the job done right the first time. Crew was polite, professional, and cleaned up everything. Would absolutely hire again."
"From the first phone call to the final walkthrough, everything was seamless. The team was courteous and efficient. Already recommended them to two friends."
Why Choose Southgate Roofing & Maintenance for Skylight Installation?
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.
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
Southgate 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.
Code Compliant
Every skylight installation meets MI building code for structural framing, energy performance, and egress requirements. Permits pulled when required.