Skylight Step Flashing

October 28, 2022

Building energy-efficient homes are becoming increasingly common. And one way to make your homes more energy efficient is to install skylights on your roofs.  However, skylights are not only about getting aesthetic add-ons to let in natural light; they have many other aspects, like step flashing. But what exactly is step flashing, and how does it work with your skylight? In this article, we will tell you everything about it.

What is Skylight Step Flashing?

Skylight step flashing is a protective layer fitted around the skylight to make it waterproof. It’s like a seal that covers the gap between the skylight and the roofing material. Step flashing is made of metal that prevents leaks by keeping the water from getting into the skylight. 

How Does it Work With Skylights?

As we mentioned, step flashing works like a protective layer around the skylights. Its primary purpose is to keep the water or snow on the roofing surface on which the skylights are installed. 

Most people use sealants to fill in the gaps between the skylight and the roof; however, this method is not viable as sealants can break down with time and cannot sustain harsh weather conditions for long. As a result, your roof can be damaged, in addition to water leakage. 

Step flashing helps shed water or snow from the roof without needing any sealants. It is fitted underneath the shingles, tiles, or slates, giving a clean and polished look to the skylights and roof. 

Therefore, whenever you purchase skylights, get a skylight flashing kit with it for a secure installation.

Skylight Step Flashing Material

The longevity of skylight step flashing depends on the material used and its quality. The most common types of step flashing are made up of metal or rubber, and plastic.

1. Metal

The types of metals used for skylight flashing include lead, copper, zinc, aluminum, and steel. However, lead proves to be the most durable, lasting for as long as 500 years! Copper is a good option for buildings that need to look aesthetically pleasing, like historical buildings and classy houses. 

But, if you’re looking for cost-effective yet durable metal skylight flashing, we suggest going for zinc, aluminum, and steel.

2. Rubber and Plastic

Rubber and plastic skylight flashing are suitable for temporary skylights, as they are cheap to install but tend to degrade in the sun quickly. 

When Should You Replace Skylight Step Flashing?

Most skylight step flashing lasts for decades and is only replaced when a new skylight is installed. However, if your step flashing has been around for quite a while, the material seems to be deteriorating, and frequent repairs have left nail holes in it, you can replace it with flashings specific to the skylights.

Are Skylights the right choice for you?
Check out our Sun-tunnels vs. Skylights post!

Get a Free Estimate

Get Free Estimate

600+ Customers Approve Us

  • They were very responsive to a couple of installation issues and followed through with the business philosophy of finding a solution that would work. Thanks Jeff for your work... read more

    Jerry Willey Avatar Jerry Willey
    August 26, 2025
  • I wont to thank all of the people that worked extremely hard on both in being honest and doing a great job, and in fast in have enough... read more

    Jody Koelling Avatar Jody Koelling
    August 25, 2025
  • Nick and Jeff E. were great. They both took the time to make sure we understood our options, answered our questions and we were able to make the best choice... read more

    Donavan Anderson Avatar Donavan Anderson
    August 23, 2025
  • Good price for good work. Crew did full strip and reroof for our two story house in 2 days. Looked great when done. Important to work with a roofing company... read more

    Steve Wetterling Avatar Steve Wetterling
    August 21, 2025
  • Jeff Eason did a fantastic job and found cost effective ways to avoid high costs

    John Bonomi Jr. Avatar John Bonomi Jr.
    August 19, 2025
  • We actually stumbled across IBEX at the Tigard Festival of Balloons and scheduled a free estimate to have our roof cleaned. And I'm so glad we did! Miguel... read more

    Amanda Case Avatar Amanda Case
    August 19, 2025
  • Jeff Eason, our project manager, made sure to handle our project with care and attention. He kept us in the loop of what was happening and was generous with providing... read more

    Rory Parsons Avatar Rory Parsons
    August 19, 2025
  • Jeff Eason took great care of me. He kept me up to date each step of the way. I added gutter replacement to my reroofing job and have me regrets!... read more

    Michelle Huffman Avatar Michelle Huffman
    August 12, 2025
  • Jeff Eason project manager did a wonderful job and gave me the best deal on gutters

    Allen Kosin Avatar Allen Kosin
    August 5, 2025
  • Jeff Eason and his crew are professionals who care about the customer. He and his crew arrived promptly at scheduled times. The crew worked efficiently and the roof was installed... read more

    Laura Guerra Avatar Laura Guerra
    August 5, 2025

Our Hassle-Free Process in 4 Easy Steps!

Step 1

Phone Consultation

When we speak with you over the phone, we'll listen to your needs to see if we're a good fit for your roofing project.
Step 2

Free Roof Estimate

Our Roof Estimators provide in-home or no-contact free estimates. We listen to your design needs and give you an honest, detailed quote.
Step 3

Roof Installation

Our Roofers treat your home as if it were their own and clean up afterwards.
Step 4

Customer Care

The IBEX Roof guarantee is backed by a commitment to making sure you are happy with your roof, or you don't pay a dime.

Not sure how much longer your roof will last?

Don't wait until your roof is completely falling apart.
Book a Free Estimate

Why Choose
IBEX Roof

At IBEX Roof, we strive to make your experience with us as straightforward and stress-free as possible. We’ll explain everything in detail and provide an exact estimate for your project. We’ll show up on time, keep disruptions to your home and property to a minimum, and make sure you’re happy with our work once we’re finished.
We are True Roofing Experts.
Sure-Footed. Honest. Professional.
Experience
We have spent years in residential roofing and commercial roofing work—always with an eye on improving our process.
Quality
We believe in quality. That starts with the roofing materials we use on every job; continues in the methods of safe, efficient working standards we employ for our team and continues right down to the experience we create for our clients.
Commitment
We’re in this for the long haul, and we know that just isn’t possible by producing sub-standard work or creating poor working relationships.

The roofing profession isn’t known for offering the best customer service experience. We’re here to change that by setting a new industry standard.
IBEX Roof's square logo representing their roofing services in Vancouver, WA
Washington State License: IBEXRRL850KG
Oregon State License: 207308
© 2025 ibexroof.com. "We're on TOP of it"
crossmenu