Skylight Installation and Replacement Crew

Install and replace skylights in homes and small commercial buildings with a small crew, a truck and a licensed contracting setup.

Worker fitting a new skylight window into a sloped roof.

Startup cost$25k to $70k

Monthly revenue$8k to $30k

Time needed40+ h/week

First incomeMonths

$25k-70k
Full-time
Out and about
Licence or permit needed

Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.

Official data

25,519 US businesses with employees in this field, +4.0% in a year

NAICS 238160 “Roofing contractors”. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023.

What it is

A small contracting business that cuts in new skylights, replaces old or failing units, and handles framing, flashing, roofing tie-in and interior finishing. Often a two- or three-person crew with a work truck.

Your first three steps

Check your state's contractor licensing requirements (you may need a general, roofing or specialty license) and register an LLC and EIN
Set up general liability and workers' compensation coverage, and open accounts with a skylight supplier or distributor
Build a few finished examples with photos and pitch local builders, remodelers and roofers for subcontract work

Who pays

Homeowners renovating, builders and remodelers, property managers and small commercial building owners.

How it makes money

Fixed quotes per job covering the unit, materials and labor. Larger projects such as multiple units or commercial roofs bring higher tickets, and referrals from builders and roofers help fill the calendar.

Skills that help

Carpentry and roofing skills
Reading plans and measuring accurately
Estimating jobs and pricing materials
Managing customers and scheduling

Watch out for

State and local contractor licensing and permit rules, which vary widely, so check your state licensing board and local building department
Building permits and code requirements for roof openings, which may apply to installs
General liability and workers' compensation insurance, plus a bond if your state requires one
Water damage claims if flashing is done badly, so follow manufacturer instructions and keep records
Weather delays and the risk of tying up cash in expensive units before customers pay
Startup costs depend heavily on whether you already own a suitable work truck, ladders, fall protection and tools; buying a used truck adds substantially to the budget

🔒 Full research report for US

Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.

Coming soon

Questions people ask

How much does it cost to start a skylight installation business?

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $25,000 to $70,000, depending heavily on whether you already own a work truck, ladders, fall protection and tools. Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on job volume.

What licenses and permits should I check for skylight installs?

Check state and local contractor licensing and permit rules with your state licensing board and local building department. Also check building permit and code requirements for roof openings, general liability and workers' compensation insurance, and whether your state requires a bond.

What are the main risks and time commitment of installing skylights?

Estimates suggest at least about 40 hours a week. Watch for water damage claims if flashing is done badly, so follow manufacturer instructions and keep records. Weather delays and paying for expensive units before customers pay can also tie up your cash.