Adding skylights is an excellent way to let natural light into rooms that feel dark and dreary. Sometimes, light fixtures just don’t provide adequate lighting to certain areas, and using additional electricity to lighten things up doesn’t have to be your only option. Choosing the right skylight and having it professionally installed will bring new life to your dark rooms. 

    Continue reading to learn why skylights may be a worthwhile investment for your home.


    Why Add a Skylight?

    Skylights can make a dramatic difference in the ambiance and brightness of any room in your home. Even a small, tube-style skylight can significantly improve the feel of a space by allowing natural light to fill it. Larger skylights have an even more pronounced effect, almost giving the illusion that a roof section is absent. Besides making rooms feel more open and airy, skylights can help with reading, sewing, or painting by reducing eye strain.

    Skylight Styles and Materials

    There are two main skylight styles. Fixed (non-opening) skylights are the most common and affordable option. Venting skylights can open for ventilation. These typically come with a remote control or pole operator to make opening them easier as they’re high up on the ceiling.

    Skylights also come in different glazing materials. Plastic skylights are inexpensive but prone to leaking and fogging over time. It’s best to use higher-quality options. Glass skylights provide better insulation. Look for tempered, laminated, or impact-resistant glass. Acrylic skylights offer UV protection and more competitive pricing options compared to glass.

    In addition to standard skylights, slim tubular skylights are available that funnel light down through attics via reflective tunnels. Tubular skylights require less modification to your roof.


    Key Considerations

    When selecting a skylight for your home, keep these factors in mind:

    • Location — North-facing rooms receive the most even natural light throughout the day. East- and west-facing rooms can bring in intense morning or evening sun.
    • Size — Measure your room size and ceiling height to pick a skylight size that fits the space. Bigger is not always better.
    • Energy efficiency Look at NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) ratings like U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). Low-E coatings help control heat and light.
    • Flashing — Get a skylight-specific flashing kit for waterproofing where the skylight meets the roof. Proper flashing is critical to prevent leaks.
    • Installer — Hire an experienced roofer or skylight company, not a general handyman. Proper installation is vital to enjoying your skylight for years.
    • Roof type — Truss roofs require skylights made to fit between trusses. Rafter roofs allow more flexibility in skylight placement.

    Installation Process

    Installing a skylight will require hiring a roofing contractor with knowledge and skills in skylight installation. The process involves measuring and marking the opening’s location on your roof and cutting through the roof decking with a circular saw, followed by framing in the rough opening, flashing, and waterproofing around the opening. The next steps include mounting the skylight curb to the roof, securing the skylight unit to the curb, and finishing and trimming out the interior well. 

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    This is not a DIY project. It typically takes a full day or more, depending on roof access and the number of skylights. Remember to obtain the required permits.


    Ongoing Care and Maintenance

    To keep your skylights in good shape:

    • Clean the glass at least twice per year
    • Clear debris from the roof around skylights to encourage water runoff
    • Close venting skylights before storms to prevent wind damage
    • Consider light filtering shades if sunlight ever becomes too intense
    • Inspect flashing seals and re-caulk as needed to prevent leaks
    • Watch for fogging or cracked glass and replace damaged panes

    So, Is Adding a Skylight Worth It?

    A professionally installed skylight can dramatically improve brightness and ambiance for rooms lacking sufficient natural light. The right skylight brings in natural light, transforming your space’s look and feel. Just be sure to have the job done by an experienced roofer, use quality materials, and take steps to prevent leaks. With proper installation and routine maintenance, a skylight will provide enjoyment for years to come.

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    FAQs About Skylights

    How much does a skylight cost?

    A professionally installed skylight costs $600 to $2,500, depending on the size, style, and roofing complexity. DIY kits cost $100 to $800 but still require roofing skills.


    How long do skylights last?

    With quality materials and proper installation, skylights can last 20 years or longer. Plastic skylights degrade faster, lasting five to 10 years typically.


    Should skylights be tinted?

    Tinted glass cuts down on visible light coming in. Untinted, tempered glass maximizes natural light. You can add adjustable blinds to control glare and heat if needed.


    How often do skylights leak?

    Leaks typically result from poor installation or damaged or degraded flashing. High-quality materials and workmanship significantly reduce leak risks over time.


    Can you install a skylight on a flat roof?

    Yes, by using a raised curb. Skylights require sufficient slope for drainage. Custom curbs provide the pitch needed on flat roofs.


    Should I get quotes from roofers or skylight companies?

    Either can provide quotes. The key is finding an installer experienced with skylight projects, not just general roofing.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Elisabeth Beauchamp

    Elisabeth Beauchamp

    Senior Staff Writer

    Elisabeth Beauchamp is a content producer for Today’s Homeowner’s Lawn and Windows categories. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with degrees in Journalism and Linguistics. When Elisabeth isn’t writing about flowers, foliage, and fertilizer, she’s researching landscaping trends and current events in the agricultural space. Elisabeth aims to educate and equip readers with the tools they need to create a home they love.

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    Lee Ann Merrill

    Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

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