Many homeowners ask if we can replace only the plastic acrylic dome while leaving the existing aluminum frame in place.

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Technically — yes, it’s possible, but in 99% of cases it is NOT recommended.

Here’s why:

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1. Custom Bubble Replacement Costs More Than You Expect

Every plastic dome is made in a specific shape, size, and curvature.
Your old model may no longer be manufactured, which means:

• we must take exact custom measurements

• order a custom acrylic dome from a specialty fabricator

• pay for a manufacturing lead time

• return for a second visit to install it

This results in higher total cost than replacing the entire skylight.

A new VELUX dome skylight is often cheaper than the custom bubble alone.

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2. No Warranty on the Old Frame (But Full Warranty on a New Skylight)

When replacing only the plastic bubble:

• the old frame has no manufacturer warranty

• seals may already be worn out

• fasteners may be corroded

• the frame may be bent from heat or previous impact

• flashing is not updated

So you end up with a new bubble on an old, outdated frame.

A full VELUX replacement gives you:

✔ new skylight
✔ new seals
✔ new flashing
✔ full manufacturer warranty
✔ modern UV & thermal performance

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3. Old Frames Typically Fail Soon After

When the dome cracks, the frame is usually the next part to fail because:

• aluminum frames expand and contract with heat

• screw holes widen

• old gaskets dry out

• the skylight becomes loose and starts leaking

Replacing only the bubble does not solve these problems.
Within a year or two, you may face:

• more cracks

• drafts

• water leaks

• complete skylight failure

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4. Two Service Visits = Higher Cost Than One Replacement

Bubble-only replacement requires:

1. First visit — measurements

2. Custom dome fabrication (often 2–4 weeks)

3. Second visit — installation

You pay for two trips, custom dome fabrication, and special labor.

Replacing the entire skylight is:

• one visit

• one installation

• fully warrantied

• usually lower cost

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5. Full Replacement Is Safer & More Reliable

Aged acrylic domes yellow, become brittle, and crack again easily.
A new VELUX skylight gives you:

✔ modern double-glazed glass
✔ better insulation
✔ better soundproofing
✔ Low-E UV protection
✔ no yellowing
✔ no cracking

It’s a long-term solution, not a temporary fix.

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📌 Final Recommendation

If your dome is cracked, yellowed, or damaged:

Replacing the entire skylight is almost always cheaper, safer, and fully warrantied.

We can replace only the bubble, but:

• it costs more in the long run

• it requires multiple visits

• it offers no warranty

• the old frame becomes the next failure point

A full skylight replacement is the best value.