A skylight is more than just a window in the roof, it’s a gateway to the sky. It brings in natural light and fresh air, transforming any room into an oasis of warmth and vitality. A skylight can be an architectural wonder that can elevate the aesthetic of your home, making you feel connected to nature even when you’re indoors.

However, to undertake a mammoth task as installing a skylight in your home requires an experienced eye, which means a DIY skylight installation can become quite messy if you don’t have the right skillsets and tools. But, this blog post is more about acquainting our readers with what skylight really means. So, let’s get into and unearth the beauty that skylight is.

What is a skylight?

A skylight is a window installed on a roof or ceiling that allows natural light to enter a building. They can be installed in residential, commercial, and industrial properties and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Skylights can improve the aesthetic appeal of a building, reduce energy consumption by reducing the need for artificial lighting, and improve the overall health and well-being of the building’s occupants by providing natural light and a connection to the outdoors. They can be operated manually or with remote control for easy adjustment and can be made with different materials like glass or plastic.

Type of skylights

There are several types of skylights available, including:

1. Fixed skylights: These are non-opening skylights that provide a static source of natural light.
2. Ventilated skylights: These skylights can be opened to provide ventilation and natural light. They are commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas where ventilation is needed.
3. Tubular skylights: These are small, tube-shaped skylights that are used to bring natural light into dark spaces such as closets, hallways, and stairwells.
4. Dome skylights: These skylights are shaped like a dome and are commonly used in residential and commercial buildings.
5. Flat glass skylights: These are flat glass panels that are installed on the roof, and are usually used for commercial or industrial buildings.
6. Solar skylights: These skylights are equipped with solar panels that generate electricity from the natural light that enters the building.
7. Retractable skylights: These are the skylights that can be opened and closed as per the requirement of the owner.

Skylight Glazing

Skylight glazing refers to the material that is used to cover the opening of a skylight. This material can be made from glass, plastic or other materials, and serves several purposes such as allowing natural light to enter the room, blocking UV rays and heat, and providing insulation.

Different types of skylight glazing

There are several types of skylight glazing that are commonly used, including:

1. Single-pane glass: This is the most basic type of skylight glazing and is the least energy-efficient option.
2. Double-pane glass: This type of glazing has two panes of glass with a space between them, providing better insulation and energy efficiency.
3. Low-E glass: This type of glass has a special coating that reflects infrared and ultraviolet light, helping to reduce heat gain and glare.
4. Laminated glass: This type of glass is made by sandwiching a layer of plastic between two panes of glass, providing improved safety and security.
5. Tempered glass: This type of glass is stronger and more durable than regular glass and is often used in skylights that are located in high-traffic areas.
6. Acrylic: This type of glazing is made from plastic and is lightweight, durable and impact resistant, making it suitable for use on skylights that are exposed to high winds and heavy rain.
7. Polycarbonate: This type of glazing is made from a type of plastic that is lightweight, durable, and impact resistant and is often used in skylights that are located in high-traffic areas.

Each type of skylight glazing has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and the best option will depend on your specific needs, budget and location.

Things to consider

Skylight Installation Considerations: brief article on things to consider

When considering installing a skylight, there are several important factors to take into consideration.

1. Location: The location of the skylight is important to ensure that it will provide the desired amount of natural light and ventilation. It is also important to consider the potential for leaks or damage from weather.
2. Size and type: The size and type of skylight will depend on the specific needs and design of the building. It is important to choose a skylight that will provide the right amount of light and ventilation without overpowering the room.
3. Energy efficiency: It is important to choose a skylight that is energy efficient to reduce heating and cooling costs. Low-e coatings and double-paned glass can help to improve energy efficiency.
4. Material and durability: The material and durability of the skylight should be considered to ensure that it will withstand the elements and last for a long time. Glass, acrylic and polycarbonate are the most common materials used for skylights.
5. Installation method: The installation method should be considered to ensure that the skylight is properly installed and will not leak. It’s important to hire a professional to install skylights
6. Maintenance: It is important to consider the maintenance required for the skylight to ensure that it will continue to function properly.
7. Cost: The cost of the skylight and installation should also be considered in the decision-making process.

Skylight add-ons

There are several add-ons that can be added to skylights to improve their functionality and enhance the overall look of the building. Some popular add-ons include:

1. Blinds and shades: These can be added to skylights to control the amount of light entering the building and to provide privacy.
2. Remote control: Remote controls can be added to skylights to make it easy to open and close them.
3. Rain sensors: These sensors can be added to skylights to automatically close them when it starts to rain.
4. Solar-powered ventilation: This add-on uses solar energy to power a small fan that helps to ventilate the building.
5. UV coatings: UV coatings can be added to skylights to protect the building’s interior from harmful UV rays.
6. Insulation: Additional insulation can be added to skylights to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs.
7. Motorization: Motorization can be added to skylights to open and close them automatically
8. Security screen: A security screen can be added to skylights to prevent them from being broken or opened from the outside.

Pros and cons of installing a skylight

Pros of installing a skylight

1. Natural light: Skylights provide natural light, which can improve the overall look and feel of a room and reduce the need for artificial lighting.
2. Energy efficiency: Skylights can help to reduce heating and cooling costs by allowing natural light and heat to enter the building.
3. Increased ventilation: Skylights can also provide increased ventilation, which can help to improve indoor air quality and reduce the need for artificial ventilation.
4. Increased property value: Skylights can increase the value of a property by adding a unique design element and improving the overall look and feel of the building.
5. Reduced electricity bills: By providing natural light, skylights can reduce the need for artificial lighting and decrease the electricity bills

Cons of installing a skylight:

1. Cost: Installing a skylight can be expensive, especially if it requires structural changes to the building.
2. Leakage: Skylights can be a source of leaks if they are not properly installed or maintained.
3. Heat gain: Skylights can also lead to heat gain in the summer months, which can increase cooling costs.
4. Fading of furniture and flooring: Skylights can cause fading of furniture and flooring if they are not equipped with UV protection.
5. Obstruction of view: Skylights can obstruct the view of the sky from the inside if they are not installed at the right angle or with the right size.
6. Maintenance: Skylights require regular maintenance to ensure that they continue to function properly and prevent leaks.

It is important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to install a skylight and to consult with a professional to ensure that it is the right choice for the specific building and its needs.

DIY versus hiring a pro for installing a skylight: which one is the best option for you?

Installing a skylight can be a complex and challenging task that requires a certain level of skill and experience. While it is possible to install a skylight as a DIY project, it is generally recommended to hire a professional for this task. Here’s why:

Proper installation: A professional skylight installer will have the necessary skills and experience to properly install the skylight and ensure that it is weathertight and leak-free.

Guaranteed work: Many professional skylight installers offer a guarantee on their work, which can provide peace of mind and protection against any potential issues.

Proper materials: Professional skylight installers have access to high-quality materials and the latest technology that may not be readily available to the general public, which can increase the durability and energy efficiency of the skylight.

Time-saving: Professional skylight installers can complete the installation process much faster than a DIY project, which can save time and effort.

Compliance with building codes: Professional skylight installers are familiar with local building codes and regulations and can ensure that the installation complies with them.

On the other hand, attempting a DIY skylight installation can lead to mistakes, lack of proper knowledge, improper installation, and may not be compliant with building codes, resulting in problems in the future and ultimately costing more to fix the issues. Therefore, it is highly recommended to hire a professional skylight installer.

Conclusion

Installing a skylight in your home can bring natural light and ventilation to dark and stuffy rooms, as well as increase the energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal of your home. However, it’s important to consider the cost, potential for leaks, and impact on heating and cooling before installing a skylight.
Hiring a professional skylight installer like Koffman.co.nz is the recommended way to ensure proper installation and compliance with building codes, and to ensure that the installation is done correctly.