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Skydome roof ventilation systems let light into your home or business, and they also contain a ventilation element. They are much more leak-proof than traditional skylights, but in the rare cases when a leak occurs, you need to be able to address it. Here are some tips to help:

1. Check the glass or plastic for cracks.

If you notice water droplets coming through your skydome, first look at the dome itself for cracks. Most skydomes feature heavy duty plastic or hurricane proof glass so damage is rare, but it is also the first issue you should rule out.  

If you see cracks, cover the skydome with a tarp to prevent the water from coming in, and contact a repair person or if the warranty is still valid, contact the manufacturer or original installer of the skydome roof ventilation system.

2. Examine the flashing.

Most skydomes have flashing around them. The flashing creates a tight seal with the roof, but it also contains channels that move the water away from the skydome and onto the roof from where it will fall onto the gutters.

If you see cracks in the flashing or if the channels to move the water are damaged or non-existent, the flashing is the issue, and it may need to be replaced.

3. Seal loose flashing.

If the flashing itself isn't damaged, make sure that it is securely attached to your roof. If it seems to be peeling off or lifting away from the roof, water may be seeping under it and into your home.

First, to secure the flashing, spread roofing cement glue underneath the flashing and press it into place. Then, to hold it down, secure it with roofing nails.

4. Add silicone caulking around the skytube.

If the flashing is tightly connected to your roof, you need to look at how the skytube is sealed to the flashing. In most cases, the flashing surrounds the skytube. If the two pieces have pulled loose from each other, the gaps will let water into your home. To prevent that, apply a bead of silicone caulking around the skytube. Repeat as needed until you have a proper seal.

5. Look for nearby leaks in your roof.

Because skydomes rarely leak, the culprit may be another part of your roof. Examine the roof surrounding the skylight and look for missing shingles, peeling shingles or other issues that may be allowing water in. Patch those issues with tar and asphalt shingles.

If none of these tips have helped with the leak in your skydome ventilation, it may be time to contact a professional.