Looking to transform a dark, gloomy room into a bright and inviting space filled with light? Skylights are a great option that not only flood your home with natural light, but also offer practical benefits like better energy efficiency and ventilation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key considerations for buying skylights.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Skylights
Various types of skylights are available. Each type caters to different needs and architectural styles:
- Custom skylights: Manufacturers design these windows to fit unique roof shapes or specific aesthetic preferences.
- Fixed skylights: These non-opening units are ideal for bringing light to areas without ventilation.
- Tubular skylights: Also known as sun tunnels, these are excellent for smaller spaces or areas where traditional skylights aren’t feasible.
- Venting skylights: You can open these skylights to allow fresh air circulation, making them perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
But finding the right skylight for your space goes beyond picking a style you like. Several factors are at play, and we recommend considering each before starting your project.
Size and Placement
Skylights should be no larger than 5% of the floor area in rooms with many windows and no more than 15% of the floor area in rooms with few windows. Proper placement is equally important. South-facing skylights provide consistent illumination throughout the day, while north-facing skylights give softer, more diffused light.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) rates skylights for thermal efficiency. When comparing skylights, look at the U-value, which measures heat transfer. Lower numbers indicate better insulation. Also, consider the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). This rating measures how much solar radiation passes through the skylight. In cooler climates, a higher SHGC provides more passive solar heating to your home.
Glazing Options
The type of window glazing you choose affects the skylight’s performance and appearance. Even though tinted glass is available, we recommend clear glass because it lets in more light. If intense sunlight does cause too much heat buildup or begins to fade carpeting and furniture inside, add a shade or screen. All options include:
- Clear glass: Allows maximum light transmission but may cause glare and heat gain.
- Low-emissivity coating: Helps control heat transfer and UV radiation.
- Tempered or laminated glass: Many building codes require these safety glasses, so check in your area.
- Tinted glass: Reduces glare and heat gain but also decreases light transmission.
You can learn about window tinting and its benefits in our guide.
Shades and Blinds
Adding shades or blinds to your skylights provides additional control over light and heat. Their effectiveness depends on their proper installation and use. Consider motorized options for skylights that are difficult to reach:
- Cellular shades: Provide excellent insulation and keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
- Solar-powered shades: Can be programmed to open and close based on the time of day or temperature.
- Venetian blinds: Allow for precise light control and can be adjusted to redirect sunlight as needed.
Venting vs. Fixed Skylights: Which Is Right for You?
The choice between venting and fixed skylights depends on your needs and the room’s function. Both types have advantages, and understanding these can help you make the best decision for your home.
Venting skylights offer several benefits:
- Moisture control: Reduce humidity in areas like your bathrooms and kitchens.
- Natural ventilation: Can be opened to allow fresh air in and stale air out.
- Temperature regulation: Help cool your home by allowing hot air to escape.
Fixed skylights have their own set of advantages:
- Better energy efficiency: Tighter seals help to reduce heat loss.
- Fewer maintenance issues: With no moving parts, mechanical failure is less likely.
- Ideal for hard-to-reach areas: Perfect for high ceilings where operating a venting skylight would be impractical.
- Lower cost: Generally less expensive than venting models.
A venting unit might seem like a good idea, but they’re inconvenient to open and close when out of reach. In fact, customers who order them usually tell us they haven’t even tracked down the special rod needed to operate their windows. So unless the skylight is easily accessible, we recommend buying the fixed unit and saving yourself some money.
Skylight Materials and Durability
The materials used in your skylight can significantly impact its performance, longevity, and maintenance requirements. High-quality materials help your skylight remain a valuable addition to your home for years.
There are two main options for skylight glazing: glass and plastic. Each has its pros and cons:
- Glass: More durable and scratch-resistant, with better clarity and light transmission. It is also available with various coatings for improved performance. However, it is heavier and more expensive.
- Plastic: Lighter and less expensive. However, it is more prone to scratches and discoloration over time and may become brittle with age and exposure to UV rays.
Although plastic glazing is cheaper initially, it doesn’t last, and many of these units leak. We find the better choice is a high-quality curbed skylight with energy-efficient glazing.
Frame Materials
The frame of your skylight also impacts its overall performance and durability. Here are some common frame materials:
- Aluminum: Lightweight, durable, and low-maintenance.
- Composite: Combines the strength of wood with the low maintenance of vinyl.
- Vinyl: Affordable and energy-efficient, but may not be as durable in extreme temperatures.
- Wood: Offers a traditional look but requires more maintenance.
Skylight Installation Considerations
Before installing a skylight, you must assess your roof structure. For conventionally framed roofs, the process involves cutting and reinforcing rafters. For roof trusses, the installer must cut one or more rafters when adding a large skylight. This approach is relatively simple for conventionally framed roofs—rafters on the sides of the rough opening are doubled up, and headers are added at the top and bottom of the opening.
Professional vs. DIY Installation
It’s safer to hire a professional than to attempt to install a skylight as a do-it-yourself (DIY) project. Professional installers have the necessary experience, tools, and knowledge of local building codes to ensure proper fitting, flashing, and sealing and obtain the necessary permits. If you decide to hire a pro, choose a reputable contractor with experience in skylight installation.
Skylight Cost Considerations
While skylights can add value to your home, consider how your initial investment compares to long-term returns. The cost of adding skylights can vary widely depending on factors such as:
- Size and type of skylight
- Quality of materials
- Complexity of installation
- Additional features (such as venting mechanisms or solar-powered blinds)
On average, a professionally installed skylight costs between $1,000 and $3,000.* High-end or custom skylights can cost significantly more.
*Cost data sourced from Fixr and Angi.com.
Concerns About Skylight Leaks
We recommend purchasing a high-quality curbed skylight with energy-efficient glazing and the factory flashing kit made for it. This kit won’t add much to your initial cost but will mean a leak-free installation. Leaks and condensation are common issues with skylights, but they can often be prevented or addressed:
- Inspect the flashing and seals around your skylight regularly for signs of wear or damage.
- Check for proper ventilation in rooms with skylights to reduce condensation, especially in bathrooms.
- Fix any leaks immediately to prevent water damage.
Long-Term Energy Savings
While the upfront cost may be substantial, skylights can contribute to long-term energy savings:
- Reduced need for artificial lighting during daylight hours
- Potential heating benefits from passive solar gain in winter
- Improved ventilation, potentially decreasing cooling costs in summer
Skylight Safety Features
Modern skylights have various safety features designed to protect your home and family. In areas prone to severe weather, you’ll want impact-resistant skylights. Manufacturers design these skylights to withstand:
- Hail
- Falling branches
- High winds
For skylights accessible from the roof, fall protection is essential. These features are particularly important if you have a flat or low-slope roof where someone might accidentally step on the skylight. Fall protection features can include:
- Safety screens or bars
- Laminated glass that remains intact even if broken
Skylights for Different Room Types
Different rooms in your home have unique lighting and ventilation needs. Choosing the right skylight for each space can enhance functionality and comfort.
Bathroom Skylights
Make sure your bathroom has adequate ventilation so condensation doesn’t become a problem. Bathrooms benefit greatly from skylights, which can do the following:
- Provide natural light while maintaining privacy
- Reduce moisture and prevent mold growth (if venting)
Kitchen Skylights
Consider tubular skylights for areas where traditional skylights aren’t feasible, such as over kitchen islands. In kitchens, skylights provide the following benefits:
- Enhanced task lighting for food preparation
- Improved ventilation to remove cooking odors and heat
- A more open and inviting atmosphere
Living Room Skylights
When installing skylights in living areas, consider the placement of furniture and televisions to avoid glare issues. You can transform your living rooms with well-placed skylights that do the following:
- Add architectural interest
- Make the space feel larger
- Provide natural light for reading or other activities
Our Conclusion
Focus on finding a skylight with high-quality materials. Paying for professional help ensure proper installation and longevity. The initial investment may be significant, but the long-term benefits of reduced energy costs and an improved living environment make skylights a worthwhile addition to your home.
