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  • Installing a Skylight: Prep Work
  • From "Weekend Remodeling"
    episode WKR-108
    advertisement

    Click here to view a larger image.

    In this episode of DIY's Weekend Remodeling, host Fuad Reveiz shows you how to install a skylight. Here's the view of the new skylight from the inside.

    Click here to view a larger image.

    And here is the view of the skylight from the outside.

    Click here to view a larger image.

    Figure A

    Click here to view a larger image.

    Figure B

    Click here to view a larger image.

    Figure C

    Prep Work = 2 hours
    Cutting Hole in the Ceiling and Marking the Roof = 4 hours
    Cut Roof Opening, Install Skylight and Replace Shingles = 4 hours
    Finishing Touches = 4 hours
    Total hours spent on project = 14 hours over 2-1/2 days

    On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the hardest, this project is a 3.

    We spent approximately $700 on supplies for this project. If you hired a contractor to install a skylight, it would probably cost you around $1,200.

    Materials:

    skylight
    hammer
    screwdrivers
    nails and screws
    plastic sheeting
    pry bar
    reciprocating saw or circular saw
    level
    keyhole saw
    cat's paw
    roofing felt and step flashing
    sheets of drywall
    joint compound
    drywall tools and tape
    taping knife
    multi-Head Shower
    silicone caulk
    pencil
    socket set
    tape measure
    drill and bits
    hex wrenches
    shims
    adhesive tape
    2 x 4's
    2 x 10
    paint

    1. The first step in this remodeling project is to determine your layout. Making sketches of the room may help you figure out what you want to do, plus help you decide what you can do. There are computer programs available that can create a 3D image of the space; thereby giving you a true sense of what your finished skylight will be like.

    2. Gather all your tools and supplies and have them ready. It wastes time to have to stop and go to the hardware store because you forgot something.

    3. Clear out all the furniture underneath your work area.

    4. You will need power for the motor in the skylight, so the skylight needs to be installed near an existing power source. Turn the power off at the breaker box. Unscrew the light bulb and pull down the can light trim kit.

    5. Locate the ceiling rafters with a stud finder and mark their location (figure A).

    6. Measure from the top of the wall to where the ceiling flattens out, for an overall length.

    7. Use a level and mark a horizontal line that falls between the rafters. This will be the bottom of the window.

    8. Use a keyhole saw and cut over until you hit the rafters (figure B). Stick tape in the first horizontal line and measure and make a mark for the top of the window. Repeat this process on the other side.

      Expert Tip: Once you know where you want your skylight to be, check the attic for any possible wiring that might interfere with your installation. It may be easier to relocate the skylight than to move these obstacles.

    9. Use a level and draw lines between the top and bottom (figure C) to outline where your skylight will go.


    RESOURCES :

    Self-Flashing Venting Skylight (ODL)
    Model #2852
    ODL Incorporated
    Website: www.odl.com

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:


  • Gutter Repair
  • Landscaping Basics
  • Flooring
  • UV Air Sanitizer
  • Replacement Windows
  • Planter, Self-Watering
  • Hand-Painted Glasses
  • Choose Washer/Dryer
  • Backsplash Installation
  • Hand-Painted Bowls
  • Prepare for Vacation
  • Maintain Garage Door
  • Disinfect Bathroom
  • Romance Kit
  • Curb Appeal
  • Transport Equipment
  • Installing Undermount
  • Holiday Decorating
  • Family Scrapbook
  • Ice Candle
  • Selecting Doors
  • Spark Plug, Changing
  • Maintain Cabinets
  • Front Door Facelift
  • Change Windowpane