velux no leak sky lights, really?

[cferds]

I was looking at these skylights in the product catalog and it looks like a good flashing system. Of course the size I need (30X30) is the only size they don't have in stock. While placing the order I was asked if I also wanted to order the flashing kit. I asked what kit, and was told that it was basically step flashing. I thought the whole purpose of Velux's upgraded skylights were to provide a leak proof skylight with flashing that was ready to go right out of the box. Either the salesman misspoke, or I didn't quite understand the catalog correctly. The additional $80 for the flashing kit isn't an issue, I'm sure the homeowner would be willing to spend what's needed to keep the thing from leaking. I wouldn't do the install if that wasn't the case. Anyhow, Has anyone installed any of these skylights, and did you need to purchase a flashing kit as well. I've asked a few salespeople at two lumber yards, but found little help. One yard is still selling the Velux with a copper flashing, which ends up being the same price as the No Leak once the cost of the flashing kit is included. Is there an advantage with one or the other, or am I better of using another brand of sky light? Thanks

[Top Notch]

Maybe I'm not up to date but I have never installed a Velux with out the $80 flashing kit.

[Catspaw]

Which flashing kit you use depends on the type of roofing material thus they are not included with the base skylight - but you definitly need to use one. The included flashing provides a second and third layer of protection. The new skylights have a continuous metal mounting flange (with a foam gasket). The old ones have 4 L shaped metal tabs. I think the new design would provide a better air seal if nothing else (I've used both and prefer the new one).

They also give you a roll of peel and stick flashing tape which saves you the trouble of cutting strips of ice and water barrier for the secondary flashing. I don't remember if the flashing tape comes with the skylight or the flashing kit.

- Rich

[NW Architect]

In the box is designed to integrate the light with the roofing underlayment. Flashing kit integrates the roofing with the light counterflashing. . . . at least that's what it sounds like

[cferds]

You were all right. The skylight dose offer three levels of leak protection, third level of protection is provided with the flashing kit. Just a little misleading when looking at a retailer's product guide. Thanks for the help.

[dave_k]

You can't go wrong installing a Velux skylight with the factory flashing kit. I have never known one to fail when installed as per the instructions. I have 2 of them installed in my roof over my bed and I wouldn't use another brand. It's not that the others won't work it's just that over the years I've had to repair a fair number of leaking skylights but I've never had to repair a Velux. I don't know which is best and I am a trim carpenter and no expert on skylights but I do know Velux with the flashing kit works so I will keep using what works.

[KsLumberSales]

I have sold Velux for over 20 years and have yet had a failure due to product. The flashing system is always sold as a separate item due to the different types that are offered.

Install it correctly and it will last.

[cferds]

I'm following the install instructions and taking my time. Getting a call back in the dead of winter because of a rushed job isn't happening. Probably one of my better cusstomers, who want the work completed the right way, not the absolute cheapest way.Still, glad it's a T+M job.
The roof is barely two years old, so I was surprised to see this on the HO's "I'd like this repaired" list. After I removed the skylight I could see where it had been leaking.The sheathing needed to be replaced, some water damaged areas, and thick uneven layers of old gooy peel n stick that wasn't flat or sound enough to install a new skylight on top of. The most obvious issue was bottom right corner where the copper flashing had lifted up allowing wind driven rain to get behind the shingles. I pryed the plastic frame/ flange out and when I tilted it over quite a bit of water ran out. It hasn't rained here in over three weeks. I have no idea how long it had been trapped inside the skylight .Most of the leaking skylights I've come across have had leaks that from the interior were pretty close to the actual unit. In this case the visible water damage is occuring a few feet down slope where the ceiling meets the wall. I'm thinking because the finished ceiling is T11, the water is getting further than it would on drywall.According to the HO, durring soaking rains, there is enough water to soak several large towels. Maybe it's just me, but It seems like a lot of water for this type of leak, and the distance it's traveling is a little concerning. After replacing the sheathing, ice guard was applied on the entire roof, it's a small 1 1/2 sq breeze way roof. Strong storms were forcasted for tonite, I'll be curious to see if the leak was infact caused solely by the skylight issue. The chimney flashing and step flashing along the wall appear to be in good shape, and while it doesn't seem likely they could be part of the problem given their location in relation to where the water is showing up. Fortunately it's going to rain pretty hard so I should be able to say for sure before I install the new skylight and finish the roof. Fixing leaks is usually simple enough, investigating them is a different story.

[ThingOfBeauty]

I have had one problem with a properly installed Velux, but it's the only one I've ever heard about and they sent a rep out who immediately admitted fault, ordered parts, and had someone come install them at their expense.
Roto makes good skylights too but theyr'e hard to find.

[butcher]

I have also had a problem with a properly installed skylight, but they were great about sending out a rep and fixing it on the spot.