Detail guide · Guide 97 of 101

Skylights in natural slate roofs

A skylight interrupts the slate field and concentrates water at its head and corners. The rough opening, unit and roofing details must be designed together.

01

Choose the unit and curb for the slope

Confirm minimum slope, curb requirements, snow exposure and manufacturer instructions. The finished height should keep critical joints above normal drainage and debris.

02

Use layered metal details

Head flashing diverts water around the opening, side flashing returns it to the roof, and the sill discharges onto slate below. Corners should not depend on exposed sealant as the primary defense.

03

Plan for future unit replacement

Skylights may not last as long as quality slate. Arrange surrounding courses and retain matching pieces so the unit can be serviced without dismantling an unnecessarily large area.

Further technical reading

Recognized sources behind this guide

Slate Boss writing is original. These links provide additional standards, preservation guidance and industry reference material.

View all slate roofing guides