A skylight transforms a dark room into a bright, open space — but only if it's installed correctly. Skylights are roof penetrations, and roof penetrations are where leaks start. Zahl Roofing & Maintenance installs skylights the right way: structural curb framed between rafters, ice-and-water shield on all four sides, step flashing and counter-flashing integrated into the shingle field, and a watertight seal verified from inside the attic.
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
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.
Structural Prep
We cut the roof deck opening through the sheathing and shingles, then frame a structural curb between the rafters with doubled lumber. Headers distribute the load around the opening. The curb provides a solid, level base for the skylight unit.
Flashing & Waterproofing
Full flashing system: ice-and-water shield base layer, step flashing and counter-flashing on all four sides, woven into the existing shingle field. Water flows over the flashing and onto the shingles below — never behind them.
Completion
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 Zahl Customers Say
"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."
"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 Zahl Roofing & Maintenance for Skylight Installation?
Roofer-Installed, Not Handyman
Zahl 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.
Leak-Free Guarantee
Every skylight gets ice-and-water shield, step flashing on all four sides, counter-flashing, and sealant at every transition. Verified from inside the attic before we leave. If it leaks, we fix it free.
Code Compliant
Every skylight installation meets ND building code for structural framing, energy performance, and egress requirements. Permits pulled when required.