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. Cotter 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.
We install deck-mounted skylights and curb-mounted skylights. Deck-mounted units sit flush against the roof deck and work best for shingle roofs on standard pitch. Curb-mounted units sit on a raised frame and work on flat or low-slope roofs. Both types get the same flashing treatment: ice-and-water shield, step flashing, counter-flashing, and sealant at every transition.
Our Skylight Installation Process
Skylight Planning
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
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.
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.
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 Cotter Customers Say
"Responded fast and got the job done right the first time. Crew was polite, professional, and cleaned up everything. Would absolutely hire again."
"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."
"Our neighbors recommended them and now we understand why. Meticulous attention to detail and they treated our home like it was their own."
Why Choose Cotter 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.
Code Compliant
Every skylight installation meets AR building code for structural framing, energy performance, and egress requirements. Permits pulled when required.
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.
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.