A skylight is a window installed on a roof that allows sunlight to enter the home. Skylights can be a great way to add natural light to a room and can also help reduce energy costs by reducing the need for artificial lighting. However, skylights must be installed properly to avoid leaks and other damage to the roof. So, how do you go about it?
The benefits of putting a skylight:
Why would you want a window on your roof? The main reasons are to let in more natural light and improve air circulation. In the winter, a skylight can help reduce your heating costs by allowing solar heat to enter the home. Skylights can also add value to your home if you ever decide to sell it.
Types of skylights:
While the idea of a skylight sounds amazing, there is an obvious question hanging in the air. What if it rains, or what if it snows? Is my home safe from the elements after installing a skylight?
The answer is that it depends on the type of skylight you install. There are two main types of skylights: fixed and vented.
A fixed skylight is just that – fixed in place. This means that it cannot be opened or closed, so if you live in an area with a lot of rainfall or snowfall, you’ll want to ensure that your roof is properly sloped so that water will not pool on top of the skylight. Fixed skylights are also less expensive than vented skylights.
Vented skylights can be opened and closed, which allows you to control the amount of light and airflow in your home. Vented skylights also have the added benefit of acting as an emergency exit in the event of a fire. However, because they can be opened, vented skylights are more expensive than fixed skylights and require more maintenance to keep them clean and free of debris.
Pre-installation:
So, you have concluded that you want to install a skylight. But before you start shopping for one, there are a few things that you should know about.
The shape of the skylight dictates how the light travels: The whole purpose of installing a skylight is to let in more light, right? But did you know that the shape of the skylight has a big impact on how the light enters the room? There are three main types of skylights: tubular, domed, and pyramid.
Tubular skylights are the most common type. They have a long, tube-like shape that allows them to draw light from a small opening on the roof and channel it down into the home. This skylight is best for smaller rooms or areas where you want direct sunlight.
Domed skylights are shaped like, well, a dome. They allow diffused light to enter the room, which creates a softer and more evenly lit space. Domed skylights are a good choice for larger rooms or areas where you want to avoid direct sunlight.
Pyramid skylights are similar to domed skylights but have a pyramid-shaped lens that helps to focus the light into the room. Pyramid skylights are a good choice for rooms or areas where you want more direct sunlight.
The size of your skylight matters: The size of the skylight also impacts how much light enters the room. A rule of thumb is that the larger the skylight, the more light it will let in. However, you also need to consider the slope of your roof when choosing a skylight size. If your roof is not properly sloped, water can pool on top of the skylight and cause leaks.
The type of glass matters: The type of glass that your skylight is made from also affects the amount of light that enters the room. There are three main types of skylight glass: clear, tinted, and reflective. Clear glass allows the most light to enter the room and is best for rooms or areas where you want lots of natural light. However, clear glass can also allow heat to enter the home, so it is not a good choice for homes in sunny climates. On the other hand, tinted glass helps to reduce the amount of heat that enters the house and is a good choice for homes in sunny climates. However, tinted glass also reduces the amount of light that enters the room, so it is not a good choice for rooms or areas where you want lots of natural light. Reflective glass is another option when installing a skylight. It helps to reduce the amount of heat and light that enters the home. Reflective glass is a good choice for homes in sunny climates, rooms, or areas where you want to reduce the amount of natural light.
The type of frame matters: The frame that your skylight is made from also affects the amount of light and heat that enters the room. There are three main skylight frames: wood, metal, and plastic. Wood frames are the most common type of skylight frame. They are durable and provide good insulation. However, wood frames can be susceptible to rot and insect damage. On the flip side, metal frames are more durable than wood frames and provide good ventilation. However, metal frames can be susceptible to rust and condensation. Unlike these two options, plastic frames are the least expensive type of skylight frame. They are lightweight and easy to install. However, plastic frames are not as durable as wood or metal frames and may warp or crack over time.
Installing a skylight:
Installing a skylight is not a difficult task, but there are a few things you’ll need to consider before getting started. First, you’ll need to decide on the type of skylight you want. Fixed or vented? Next, you’ll need to take measurements of the area where you want to install the skylight and ensure that your roof can support the weight. Finally, you’ll need to purchase the skylight and install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
When installing a skylight, use caution and follow all safety guidelines. Skylights can be heavy, so it’s important to have someone help you lift and place the skylight onto the roof. Once the skylight is in place, use silicone caulk or another sealant to create a watertight seal around the edges. This will help prevent leaks. If you run into trouble at any point when installing a skylight, talk to a roofing professional. They will ensure that process is seamless.
