Wondering how to stop condensation dripping from a skylight? Skylight condensation can be a common issue, especially during the colder months. During dryer months, condensation can form when warm air inside the home meets the cooler surface of the skylight. This condensation can drip onto the floor, leading to potential water damage and mould growth. Understanding the causes of condensation and implementing effective strategies can prevent condensation and keep your home comfortable.
Why Do Skylights Get Condensation?
Condensation is caused when warm, moist air rises to the ceiling and contacts a cool surface, like a skylight. This condensation forming on the glass pane is common during winter months when there is a significant temperature difference between the interior and exterior. Excess moisture in the air can lead to condensation problems, especially in poorly ventilated spaces or single pane units. Understanding why skylight condensation occurs is the first step to fixing it and preventing further issues.
Factors Causing Skylight Condensation
- High indoor humidity levels: Moisture in the air can form condensation on the glass.
- Inadequate ventilation: Without proper air circulation, moist air rises and condenses on the skylight.
- Temperature differences: The larger the temperature difference, the more likely condensation will form.
Addressing these factors can significantly reduce condensation on your skylight.
How Do You Stop Condensation Dripping From Skylight?
To prevent condensation on a skylight, it’s essential to address the root causes. Here are some simple steps you can take to stop condensation from forming and dripping:
Reduce Indoor Humidity Levels
- Use Exhaust Fans: Install exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove excess moisture from the air. This helps reduce the amount of moist air that rises to the skylight.
- Run a Dehumidifier: Condensation is the conversion of humid air into water. Using a dehumidifier can lower overall humidity levels in your home, making it less likely for water droplets to form on the glass pane.
- Open Windows Briefly: Ventilation is key. Open windows daily, even in winter, to let out humid air and let in drier, cooler air.

Improve Ventilation
- Install Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans help circulate air around the room, preventing warm air from rising and contacting the cooler surface of the skylight.
- Ensure Proper Attic Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation reduces temperature differences between indoor and outdoor air, preventing moisture from forming on roof windows and skylights.
Enhance Insulation
- Insulate the Skylight Frame: Adding insulation around the skylight frame minimizes temperature differences and helps keep the interior glass pane warmer.
- Insulate Attic Space: Proper attic insulation can reduce cold air drafts and temperature fluctuations, preventing condensation.
- Upgrade to Insulated Glass: Consider installing double-glazed or triple-glazed skylights with argon gas between panes for better insulation and energy efficiency.
By implementing these methods, you can effectively fix skylight condensation and improve your home’s comfort.
Address the Skylight Itself
Proper maintenance and installation of the skylight are crucial in preventing condensation. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your skylight is in optimal condition:
Regular Cleaning
Clean the Skylight Regularly: Debris and dirt can trap moisture on the skylight’s surface. Regular cleaning helps keep the glass clear and reduces the chance of condensation forming.
Check Installation and Seal Integrity
Inspect for Proper Installation: Ensure that your skylight is installed correctly. Poor installation can lead to air leaks and condensation problems.
Verify Seal Integrity: Check the seals around the skylight. Broken or worn seals can allow warm air to leak out and cold air to come in, causing condensation. If needed, reseal or replace the seals.

Upgrade the Skylight
Buy Double-Glazed or Triple Glaze Skylights: Upgrading to double-pane or triple-pane skylights with better insulating properties can help prevent condensation. These skylights provide an additional barrier to temperature differences.
Consider Automated Skylights: Upgrading to automated skylights with climate control sensors, such as the Velux ACTIVE with NetAtmo series, will allow ventilating skylights to open and close with the environmental conditions of the room.
Install a Condensation Channel: Some skylights come with built-in condensation channels to collect and redirect moisture. If your skylight doesn’t have one, consider adding a drip tray or gutter system to manage condensation drips.
By maintaining your skylight and ensuring it is properly installed, you can significantly reduce condensation issues and enhance the overall efficiency of your home.

Products for Preventing Interior Moisture
Utilizing specialized materials can further help prevent condensation on your skylight. These materials enhance the skylight’s performance and address specific issues related to moisture and temperature differences.
Apply Elastomeric Caulk
Applying elastomeric caulk around the edges of the skylight glass helps seal any small gaps that might allow moist air to enter. This caulk remains flexible and can withstand temperature fluctuations, providing a durable seal.
Use UV-Stable Tapes
For exterior insulation, use UV-stable tapes to secure insulation panels around the skylight. These tapes are designed to resist weathering and provide a long-lasting barrier against moisture and air leaks.
Get A More Energy Efficient Skylight
If you’re considering upgrading your skylight, look for options that include argon gas between two or even three panes. Argon gas is a better insulator than air, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming on the interior glass pane.
Install a Skylight Drip Tray
If your skylight doesn’t have a built-in condensation channel, consider installing a drip tray or gutter system. These additions collect and redirect moisture away from the skylight, preventing drips onto the floor.
By using these specialized materials, you can enhance your skylight’s performance and effectively manage condensation issues, ensuring a more comfortable and moisture-free living space.

When to Consult a Professional
While many solutions for preventing skylight condensation can be handled by homeowners, there are times when seeking expert advice is necessary. Consulting a professional skylight installer can provide a thorough assessment and ensure that all potential issues are addressed.
Persistent Condensation Issues
If you have tried all the recommended methods and still experience condensation problems, it might be time to call in a home improvement professional. Persistent issues can indicate underlying problems with the skylight installation or insulation that require expert intervention. A professional can diagnose the root cause and offer effective solutions.
Skylight Installation and Upgrades
Installing a new skylight or upgrading an existing one to a double-glazed or triple-glazed unit should be done by a professional. Proper installation is crucial to prevent leaks when it rains and to ensure energy efficiency. A professional installer will ensure that the skylight is correctly placed and sealed, preventing condensation from forming due to poor installation.
Addressing Structural Issues
Sometimes, condensation is caused by structural issues in the roof or attic. A professional can inspect the overall structure and suggest necessary repairs or modifications. This might include improving attic ventilation, adding insulation, or managing roof slopes to enhance air circulation and prevent condensation.
Mold and Water Damage
If condensation has led to mold growth or water damage, it’s essential to get professional help. Mold can pose serious health risks, and water damage can compromise the structural integrity of your home. A professional can safely remove mold, repair water damage, and take measures to prevent future issues.
Seeking professional advice ensures that your skylight is functioning optimally and your home remains comfortable and safe. Whether it’s for installation, upgrades, or addressing persistent problems, a professional skylight installer can provide the expertise needed to fix skylight condensation effectively.