Fort Collins homes built before the 1990s in Old Town and near Colorado State University often have original skylights with single-pane glass and outdated curb flashing. These units fail when repeated freeze-thaw cycles in the semi-arid climate open seams around the frame. Replacement requires matching the existing rough opening exactly, because altering roof structure in Larimer County triggers additional permitting steps.
Homes along Horsetooth Reservoir and in Prospect Park sit at slightly higher elevations where wind-driven snow packs against skylight curbs. We use double-pane tempered glass with thermally broken aluminum frames and step flashing integrated into the existing shingle courses. This approach prevents the ice dams that commonly form where warm roof air meets cold glass.
Downtown and Harmony properties frequently have low-slope sections or tile roofs that demand custom curb heights. We remove the old unit, inspect for rot in the surrounding decking, and reinstall with new self-adhered membrane and counter-flashing before the new skylight is set. This sequence keeps the roof watertight during the brief warm windows typical of local winters.
Technician insight
In Fort Collins the thing that catches most people out with skylight replacement is the age of the roof deck around the curb. Homes in Old Town and near Colorado State University often have 40-year-old plywood that looks fine from below but crumbles once the old unit comes out, turning a straightforward swap into a deck repair job before the new skylight can go in.
Old Town Skylight Replacement
Homeowner noticed repeated water stains after heavy spring snow. We found the original curb flashing had separated on a south-facing slope. The old unit was removed, rotted decking replaced, and a new thermally broken skylight installed with updated step flashing. No further leaks reported through the next winter.
Skylight Replacement Services We Offer
✓Custom Sized Skylight Replacement
Measure and fabricate replacements for non-standard openings common in pre-1980 homes near Old Town Square.
✓Energy Efficient Skylight Upgrades
Swap single-pane units for double-pane low-E models that reduce heat loss during Fort Collins winters.
✓Curb and Flashing Renewal
Replace deteriorated curbs and step flashing on homes in Prospect Park where snow accumulation is heaviest.
✓Skylight Removal and Roof Patch
Remove unwanted skylights and restore the roof deck and shingles on properties in Harmony and Windsor.
✓Tubular Skylight Conversion
Replace large leaking units with smaller tubular models suited to compact roof planes in Downtown Fort Collins.
Skylight Replacement Cost in Fort Collins, CO
| Service | Typical Range | What Affects It |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Skylight Replacement | $950–$1,650 | Size and roof pitch in neighborhoods like Harmony affect final cost. |
| Custom Sized Unit | $1,400–$2,200 | Required for older openings in Old Town homes. |
| Curb And Flashing Work | $350–$650 | Added when existing curb shows rot near Horsetooth Reservoir. |
| Tubular Skylight Swap | $650–$1,050 | Lower cost option for smaller roof planes in Downtown. |
Ranges are typical for Fort Collins, CO and confirmed with an exact written quote before any work starts.
How it works
- 1
On-Site Assessment
We inspect the existing skylight, roof condition, and attic insulation at addresses from Old Town to Loveland.
- 2
Unit Selection And Permitting
Select the correct size and type, then handle Larimer County permit requirements before ordering.
- 3
Removal And Deck Repair
Remove the old skylight, check for deck damage, and install new underlayment and flashing.
- 4
Installation And Final Seal
Set the new skylight, integrate counter-flashing, and test for leaks before cleanup.
Pricing
Upfront written quotes provided after inspection at your Fort Collins address.