Skylight Not Opening – Repair for Solar, Electric & Manual VELUX Models
Skylight Stuck or Not Opening? We Diagnose and Fix All VELUX Models
A skylight that won’t open can be caused by motor issues, dead batteries, remote pairing problems, worn hardware, or weather-related swelling.
Common symptoms include:
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Solar skylight doesn’t respond to the remote
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Electric skylight moves a few inches and stops
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Manual skylight crank is jammed or too hard to turn
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Skylight clicks but does not open
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Unit opens halfway and then reverses
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Skylight is stuck due to debris or flashing obstruction
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Motor starts but the sash doesn’t move
We repair VELUX VSS, VSE, VCS, VCE, VCM, and older VS/VSE models — all generations.
What Causes Skylights to Stop Opening
1. Dead or Weak Battery (Solar Units)
Solar-powered skylights rely on an internal battery.
When the charge drops too low, the skylight stops responding entirely.
2. Motor Failure or Obstruction
If the chain motor is worn out, dried, or obstructed — the sash won’t move.
3. Remote Control / Wall Switch Issues
Unpaired remotes, dead batteries, or outdated firmware can stop skylight operation.
4. Manual Operator Problems
Manual crank mechanisms may:
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jam
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strip gears
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disconnect internally
5. Weather-Related Swelling
In hot or humid conditions, wood sashes may expand slightly, preventing smooth opening.
6. Debris or Flashing Interference
Leaves, roofing debris, or dried sealant may physically block the skylight from lifting.
7. Incorrect Installation or Old Hardware
Older skylights may have worn hinges or loose brackets that prevent safe opening.
What We Do to Fix It
✔️ Full Diagnostic of Motor & Chain Mechanism
We test motor torque, chain resistance, limit stops, and electrical continuity.
✔️ Solar Battery & Charging System Test
We check battery voltage, charging speed, and solar panel performance.
✔️ Remote Reset & Re-Pairing
We reprogram KLR/KLI remotes and restore communication with the skylight.
✔️ Manual Gear & Crank Repair
We lubricate, realign, or replace worn crank components.
✔️ Obstruction Removal & Track Cleaning
We remove debris, adjust hinges, and ensure smooth opening without resistance.
✔️ Skylight Replacement (If Mechanism Is Too Old)
If the skylight is older than 15–20 years — or the motor assembly has failed completely — replacing the unit is usually more cost-effective.
When Replacement Is Recommended
We recommend a replacement skylight when:
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motor is burned out
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sash or hinges are warped
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manual hardware is stripped
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unit is older than 15–20 years
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parts are discontinued (common for pre-2010 VS/VSE models)
New VELUX skylights are significantly more energy-efficient and operate smoother and quieter.
Get Your Skylight Working Again
If your skylight won’t open — solar, electric, or manual — we can diagnose and fix it quickly.
Why Homeowners Choose Us
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Certified VELUX Installer
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Licensed & Insured (#1099068)
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Over 10 years of skylight experience
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Precise diagnostics — no guesswork
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Clean, professional, respectful service
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Transparent pricing
Service Area
We proudly serve all of Orange County, including:
Irvine, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Orange, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach.