How To Clean Skylights

Ever notice how much brighter a room feels with a skylight? But what happens when that beautiful natural light starts to dim? Dust, grime, pollen, and even bird droppings can accumulate on your skylights, significantly reducing the amount of sunlight that enters your home. Dirty skylights not only diminish the aesthetic appeal of your interior but also force you to rely more on artificial lighting, potentially increasing your energy bills.

Cleaning your skylights regularly is an essential part of home maintenance. It allows you to maximize natural light, reduce energy consumption, and maintain the overall beauty of your living space. By following the right steps and using the appropriate tools, you can restore your skylights to their sparkling best, allowing that wonderful sunlight to flood into your home once more.

What's the best way to clean my skylights without damaging them?

What's the best way to clean skylights without scratching them?

The best way to clean skylights without scratching them is to use a soft-bristled brush, a gentle cleaning solution (such as dish soap diluted in water), and plenty of water for rinsing. Avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, and high-pressure washing, as these can easily damage the skylight's surface.

Skylights, often made of acrylic or polycarbonate, are particularly vulnerable to scratches. Before you even think about applying cleaner, pre-rinse the skylight thoroughly with water to remove any loose dirt, grit, or debris that could scratch the surface when you start washing. The more you rinse beforehand, the less likely you are to grind abrasive particles into the material. Consider using a hose with a gentle spray nozzle. When cleaning, use a long-handled, soft-bristled brush designed for washing cars or windows. This will allow you to reach the skylight without having to climb onto the roof, which can be dangerous. Dip the brush frequently into your bucket of mild cleaning solution and gently scrub the skylight's surface. After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly with clean water, ensuring all soap residue is removed. Soap residue can attract dirt and create streaks. For stubborn spots, repeat the washing and rinsing process, but avoid excessive pressure. If possible, clean on a cloudy day or during the cooler parts of the day to prevent the cleaning solution from drying too quickly and leaving water spots.

How can I reach my skylights safely for cleaning?

Reaching skylights safely for cleaning typically involves using a stable ladder, ideally an extension ladder with rubberized feet, placed on a level surface. Employ a spotter to hold the ladder steady, and avoid overreaching. If the skylight is accessible from the roof, ensure you have proper fall protection gear, such as a safety harness and appropriate footwear, and are familiar with roof safety protocols.

Before even considering climbing, assess the accessibility of your skylights. Can you reach them from inside using an extension pole with a cleaning attachment? This is the safest option. If not, carefully inspect the ground around your house for a level, stable area to place the ladder. Avoid uneven surfaces, loose gravel, or soft soil that could cause the ladder to shift. Ensure the ladder's feet are firmly planted and consider using ladder stabilizers for added security.

If roof access is necessary, prioritize safety above all else. It's highly recommended to hire a professional window cleaner experienced with roof work. If you choose to proceed yourself, wear slip-resistant shoes and consider using a safety harness attached to a secure anchor point. Check the weather forecast and avoid cleaning skylights on windy or rainy days. Remember, even a seemingly low roof can pose a significant fall risk.

What cleaning solutions are safe for skylights and my roof?

The safest and most effective cleaning solution for both skylights and roofs is generally a mixture of mild dish soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and solvents, as these can damage the skylight material (especially acrylic or polycarbonate) and degrade roofing materials like asphalt shingles or metal.

For skylights, it's crucial to choose a gentle cleaning solution. Harsh chemicals found in many household cleaners can etch or cloud the skylight surface, reducing light transmission and potentially weakening the material over time. For roofs, the primary concern is damaging the protective granules on asphalt shingles or corroding metal roofing. A mild soap and water solution effectively removes dirt, algae, and other debris without posing these risks. You can also purchase specialized skylight cleaners from home improvement stores, but always check the label to ensure they are compatible with your specific skylight material.

When cleaning either skylights or your roof, avoid using high-pressure washers. While tempting for their cleaning power, these can easily damage both surfaces. A garden hose with a gentle spray nozzle is sufficient for rinsing. For stubborn stains on your roof, consider a dedicated roof cleaning solution designed for your specific roofing material. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and test the solution in an inconspicuous area first.

Here's a simple checklist for choosing a safe cleaning solution:

How often should I be cleaning my skylights?

Ideally, you should clean your skylights at least twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. This helps remove accumulated dirt, pollen, leaves, and other debris that can obstruct sunlight and diminish their aesthetic appeal.

More frequent cleaning may be necessary depending on your environment. If you live in an area with heavy pollution, frequent rainfall that leaves behind streaks, or near trees that shed leaves and sap, you might benefit from cleaning your skylights quarterly. Observing the condition of your skylights regularly will help you determine the optimal cleaning frequency for your specific location and circumstances. Dirty skylights not only reduce natural light but can also make your home appear duller and less inviting. Consider the pitch of your roof as well. Skylights on shallower pitched roofs tend to collect debris more quickly than those on steeper slopes, warranting more frequent attention. Additionally, if you notice bird droppings or other significant accumulations of dirt, it's best to clean the affected area immediately, regardless of your regular cleaning schedule. Prompt cleaning prevents staining and etching of the glass, preserving the skylight's clarity and longevity.

Does the type of skylight (glass vs. plastic) affect the cleaning method?

Yes, the material of your skylight—whether it's glass or plastic (acrylic or polycarbonate)—significantly impacts the cleaning method you should use. Plastic skylights are more prone to scratching and damage from harsh chemicals, so gentler cleaning solutions and techniques are essential compared to cleaning glass skylights, which are more durable and can withstand stronger cleaning agents.

For glass skylights, you can typically use a standard glass cleaner like Windex or a homemade solution of vinegar and water. A soft cloth or sponge is usually sufficient for removing dirt and grime. However, for plastic skylights, avoid ammonia-based cleaners, abrasive scrubbing pads, and harsh chemicals like solvents. These can cloud, scratch, or even melt the plastic. Instead, opt for a mild soap (like dish soap) diluted in water. Use a very soft microfiber cloth to gently wipe the surface, and rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. The key difference lies in the fragility of the material. Think of cleaning glass like cleaning a car windshield - it is durable but use appropriate cleaners. Think of cleaning plastic skylight like cleaning your eyeglasses. Scratches on plastic are much more visible and difficult to repair than on glass. Regular cleaning, using the appropriate methods for the skylight type, will extend its lifespan and maintain optimal light transmission. Always consult the skylight manufacturer's recommendations for specific cleaning instructions to avoid voiding any warranties or causing irreparable damage.

How do I remove stubborn stains like bird droppings from skylights?

To remove stubborn stains like bird droppings from skylights, begin by softening the droppings with warm, soapy water. Let it soak for several minutes before gently wiping it away with a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes, which can scratch the skylight's surface.

If the initial cleaning doesn't remove all the stain, create a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. The baking soda acts as a mild abrasive and deodorizer, helping to lift the remaining residue. After the paste has had time to work, gently scrub the area with a soft cloth or sponge and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Dry the skylight with a clean, lint-free cloth to prevent water spots.

For particularly persistent stains, consider using a specialized glass cleaner designed for outdoor use. These cleaners often contain ingredients that help break down organic matter and remove stubborn stains without damaging the skylight's surface. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and rinsing. If the bird droppings are excessively hardened or cover a large area, you may need to repeat the cleaning process several times, allowing the cleaning solution to soak in each time before attempting to wipe it away.

What's the best way to prevent streaks when cleaning skylights?

The best way to prevent streaks when cleaning skylights is to work in the shade, use a mild cleaning solution, apply it evenly with a soft microfiber cloth or sponge, and thoroughly dry the surface with a clean, dry microfiber cloth or squeegee. This prevents the cleaning solution from drying too quickly and leaving residue.

When cleaning skylights, direct sunlight is the enemy. The heat will cause your cleaning solution to evaporate rapidly, leaving behind streaks and water spots before you have a chance to wipe them away. If possible, choose a cloudy day or clean your skylights early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun isn't directly hitting them. If that's not possible, try to create some temporary shade using a tarp or umbrella. The choice of cleaning solution and application method are equally crucial. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the skylight material. Instead, opt for a mild mixture of dish soap and water or a dedicated glass cleaner specifically designed for skylights. Apply the solution evenly using a soft, non-abrasive microfiber cloth or sponge. Avoid excessive scrubbing, as this can also lead to scratches or streaks. Finally, drying the skylight completely is paramount. A clean, dry microfiber cloth is excellent for this, but a squeegee is even better. Overlap each pass of the squeegee slightly to ensure no water is left behind.

And there you have it! Sparkling clean skylights, ready to let the sunshine in. Thanks so much for reading, and we hope this guide helped you get the job done. Feel free to pop back anytime you need some more helpful tips and tricks around the house – we're always happy to share!