Commercial metal roofs are a popular choice for businesses thanks to their durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance needs. However, hidden dangers often lurk above your head that can compromise the safety and integrity of your building—namely, old fiberglass skylights. Often overlooked, these skylights pose serious risks to your property and its occupants if left uninspected and unrepaired.  

This blog will explore the dangers associated with aging fiberglass skylights on commercial roofs and explain why partnering with experts like Camel City Roofing for regular roof inspections is essential to maintaining a safe and secure environment for your business. 

Ready to schedule a roof inspection for your business today? Call us at 336-815-5840!

What Are Fiberglass Skylights? 

Fiberglass skylights are commonly found on commercial metal roofs. They are designed with translucent fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) to allow natural light into industrial and commercial buildings. These skylights were initially praised for their cost efficiency and ability to improve energy savings by reducing the need for artificial lighting. 

However, despite their advantages, fiberglass skylights come with a major downside—they degrade over time. Prolonged exposure to weather, UV radiation, and the elements significantly compromises their structural integrity. 

Why Fiberglass Skylights Become Dangerous 

Over time, old fiberglass skylights can transition from being a functional asset to a serious liability. Here’s why they can become hazardous on commercial roofs:

1. Loss of Transparency 

Fiberglass skylights are lauded for letting in sunlight. However, UV rays from the sun cause the material to discolor and lose its transparency over time. A once clear skylight may turn opaque or yellow, significantly reducing its lighting efficacy and making it harder to spot issues at a glance.

2. Weakened Structural Integrity 

Materials exposed to heat, rain, and fluctuating temperatures will naturally wear down, and fiberglass is no exception. The deterioration process may lead to cracks, holes, or even outright collapse under pressure, creating significant safety hazards. 

3. Environmental Dangers 

As fiberglass materials degrade, they may release harmful particles into the environment. Not only does this pose health risks, but it also increases your maintenance costs as you work to clean up debris or replace damaged goods beneath the skylight. 

4. Fall Hazards 

A degraded fiberglass skylight can easily go unnoticed, especially if discoloration masks any signs of damage. Workers inspecting your roof or HVAC technicians accessing rooftop units can step on these fragile structures, leading to dangerous accidents or falls.

5. Water Leaks and Roof Damage 

Cracked or compromised skylights can allow water infiltration, which leads to leaks within your building. Beyond water damage, this can result in structural issues, including rust or mold, in the surrounding metal roof system. 

Real-World Risks 

Every year, workers fall through unmarked or aged skylights, resulting in severe consequences. Falls from a roof can lead to permanent disabilities or loss of life, and in addition to the human toll, building owners may be held legally responsible for preventable accidents. If you own or manage a commercial building with a metal roof, it’s crucial to be proactive in identifying and mitigating these risks. 

How to Protect Your Building and Workers 

If your commercial building has old skylights, here are key steps you should take to ensure safety: 

1. Inspect Your Roof for Skylights – Walk your roof or have a professional inspect it to locate all skylights, especially those that are worn out or hard to see. 
2. Mark Skylights Clearly – Use high-visibility paint or safety markers to ensure anyone working on the roof knows where skylights are located. 
3. Install Protective Skylight Screens or Covers – Metal screens or durable covers can prevent workers from accidentally stepping onto skylights.
4. Replace Aged or Brittle Skylights – If your skylights are too old and fragile, replacing them with stronger, modern materials is the best long-term solution. 
5. Educate Workers About Roof Hazards – Any contractor, HVAC technician, or maintenance worker accessing your roof should be made aware of skylight locations and risks. 
6. Implement Safety Railings or Walkways – Creating designated paths and barriers on your roof can help prevent unnecessary foot traffic near skylights. 

Why Routine Inspections Are Crucial for Commercial Roofs 

Aged fiberglass skylights are not an issue you should ignore. Regular roof inspections offer a proactive way to identify and address skylight issues before they evolve into costly repairs or safety liabilities. Here’s why inspections are essential for commercial roofs:

1. Extend Roof Lifespan 

Early detection of potential issues like aging fiberglass skylights or rust around the edges of skylights can prevent extensive damage. Proper care and maintenance ensure that your commercial roof—and its skylights—last as long as possible. 

2. Reduce Property Liabilities 

With regular inspections, you can prioritize safety for anyone accessing your roof and avoid potential liability issues, such as injuries from falls or accidents caused by skylight failures. 

3. Lower Operating Costs 

Fixing minor skylight concerns during an inspection is much more cost-effective than waiting until damage escalates. From preventing water damage to energy loss, proactive repairs will save your organization money in the long run. 

4. Maintain Compliance 

Commercial properties often face regulations regarding safety and building management. Routine roofing inspections ensure that your roof, including any fiberglass skylights, remains in compliance with industry standards. 

Why Hire Camel City Roofing for Your Commercial Roof Inspection 

If your commercial property has metal roofing or fiberglass skylights, hiring a trusted expert is your best line of defense against hidden dangers. Here’s why Camel City Roofing is the right partner for the job:

Expertise in Commercial Roofs 

At Camel City Roofing, we specialize in inspecting and maintaining commercial roofs, including commercial metal roof systems with fiberglass skylights. Our experienced team knows how to identify subtle signs of wear, tear, or damage that might go unnoticed by untrained eyes. 

Advanced Roof Inspection Tools 

We use cutting-edge technology to thoroughly examine every aspect of your roof. From drone imaging to moisture detection, you can trust that our comprehensive inspection process leaves no stone unturned. 

Transparent Communication 

Our inspection results come with a clear and detailed report, outlining any issues we find and recommendations for resolving them. Whether it’s replacing skylights or reinforcing weak sections, you’ll know exactly what’s needed to restore your roof’s integrity. 

Proactive Skylight Solutions 

After identifying hazards like deteriorating fiberglass skylights, we’ll help you take the right next steps. Camel City Roofing offers skylight replacement solutions to improve your building’s safety and even increase energy efficiency with more durable materials. 

A Commitment to Safety 

Our team is fully committed to ensuring the safety of your commercial property. By working with us, you’ll not only protect your assets but also create a secure environment for employees, clients, and contractors. 

Simple Steps to Take Action Today 

Making your commercial roof safer starts with scheduling a professional inspection. Here’s what you can do today to protect your property from the risks of old fiberglass skylights:

1. Schedule a Free Inspection – Contact Camel City Roofing to set up an appointment for your commercial property. 
2. Perform Preventive Maintenance – Address any wear or tear we identify before minor problems become major costs. 
3. Upgrade Skylight Material – Consider replacing outdated fiberglass skylights with stronger, longer-lasting alternatives. 

Protect your commercial roof and ensure peace of mind with the help of Camel City Roofing. 

Commercial Roof Safety Starts From the Top 

Old fiberglass skylights may be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind. From their structural weakness to the hazards they create for rooftop workers, these skylights can lead to costly problems if not addressed in time. 

By understanding the risks and partnering with experts like Camel City Roofing, you can ensure your commercial roof stays safe, secure, and efficient for years to come. Contact us today at 336-815-5840 to schedule your roof inspection and take the first step toward a safer, worry-free property. 

Currently, we have a special offer of a roof inspection for only $199. If you serve in the military, be sure to ask us about our military promotions! Also, until March 31, we are offering a special $500 off our services (Restrictions apply). Click here to view all our special offers.