How to Measure Skylights

Course Description: This course provides practical, step-by-step training on how to accurately measure skylights for new installations and replacements. Participants will learn proper measuring techniques for deck mount and curb mount skylights, and how to avoid common sizing errors that lead to delays, poor fit, or callbacks. Emphasis is placed on accuracy, efficiency, and correct coding for ordering.
Duration: 2 hours
Structure: Classroom Instruction + Hands-on Practical Measurement
Prerequisites: Basic roofing and construction knowledge
Training Format: Mobile or Academy

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Understand key skylight measurement terminology and sizing standards.

Measure rough openings and finished openings accurately.

Differentiate measuring methods for deck mount vs. curb mount skylights.

Assess roof pitch, shaft depth, and interior dimensions affecting skylight size.

Record and communicate measurements correctly for ordering.

PPA Training Images

Course Breakdown

  • 1. Introduction to Skylight Measurements
    • Why accurate measurement is critical
    • Common consequences of incorrect sizing
    • Overview of skylight types (deck mount vs. curb mount)
    • Key terminology: rough opening, finished opening, daylight opening, curb dimensions
  • 2. Measurement Fundamentals
    • Tools required: tape measure, pitch gauge, level, notepad/digital forms
    • Understanding manufacturer sizing vs. site measurements
    • Measuring width and height correctly
    • Roof pitch considerations
    • Accounting for interior shaft dimensions and drywall returns
  • 3. Measuring for Skylights, SUN TUNNELS, Deck Mounted Roof Windows
    • Measuring rough opening from the roof deck
    • Replacement vs. new installation measurement methods
    • Verifying structural framing dimensions
    • Ensuring square and level openings
    • Measuring outside curb dimensions vs. inside curb dimensions
    • Confirming curb height and slope requirements
    • Replacement measurement: maximum skylight clearance
    • New installation: determining correct curb size
    • Considerations for flat and low-slope roofs
  • 4. Practical Measurement Exercise
    • Hands-on measurement of mock roof openings and curbs
    • Recording measurements using standard forms
    • Identifying and correcting common measuring mistakes
    • Instructor-guided accuracy check
  • 5. Ordering Best Practices
    • How to properly document measurements
    • Communicating measurements
    • Double-check and verification procedures
  • 6. Review & Q&A
    • Recap: Identify Type → Measure Opening/Curbs → Verify Dimensions → Ordering
    • Open Q&A discussion
    • Key takeaways and measurement checklist

Materials & Resources Provided

  • Skylight measurement quick-reference guide
  • Step-by-step measurement checklist (deck mount & curb mount)
  • Sample measurement documentation forms
  • Access to technical support resources

Outcome

Participants will gain the confidence and skills to measure skylights accurately for both new installations and replacements, reducing ordering errors, installation delays, and costly rework.

Have questions about training? Reach out to our team.

If you’re looking for more information about the Pro Partner Academy or have questions about participating in skylight training, contact us.