Skylights are important additions to a home, especially today when the cost of electricity continues to rise. Both residential and commercial properties can enjoy the beauty and usefulness of skylights. It’s a part of a roof that looks like an open window where natural light can pass through during the day and allows you to see the stars in the sky at night.
Aside from their aesthetic appeal, skylights promise other highly desirable benefits. However, installation and maintenance might present issues that you will want to know about before committing to them. Therefore, making the right decision also requires that you learn the pros and cons of skylights to weigh things first.
Skylights Pros
· More natural light can enter your home.
Skylights are naturally transparent in appearance, which lets more natural light from outside into your home. It helps brighten up any area in your home, such as the kitchen and the bathroom. Using electricity for lighting from day until night can be expensive. With a skylight installed, you’ll be able to take advantage of the sun’s light.
· It makes an area more attractive.
The view of the sky at night is beautiful. This can change the entire ambiance and vibe of your home, something that cannot be achieved with normal roofing. At the same time, staying in a well-lit room or area can be more inviting than a gloomy one.
· Better airflow can be achieved.
A venting skylight is desirable because of its ability to provide fresh air inside a room anywhere in your home, like your bathroom, where there is not much fresh air coming through. Natural cooling is made possible with this kind of skylight as well and can be very useful during summer or in places where it is always warm.
· Makes a room look larger.
The natural light from the sun has the natural effect of making a room look much larger than it really is. For people with claustrophobia or those with a fear of enclosed spaces, the moonlight at night can help illuminate the room and make the ceiling feel wider.
Cons of Skylights
· Expensive
Installing and maintaining your skylight in perfect shape can be expensive. As much as the decrease in your monthly bills is, the amount of money you need to put a skylight in can be an investment. Skylights are naturally prone to leaks which calls for a regular checkup by expert roofers near you. In addition, some insurance companies take note of this disadvantage and add it to the price of your premiums.
· Prone to roof leaks
Depending on the kind of roof you have, skylights can cause damage to your roof later on, especially if it is a truss roof. Large skylights create structural damage to the roof, which may cost you more, too. Yet, if your home has the standard roof frame, you’ll likely have no issues at all with most kinds of skylights.
· Prone to interior damages
The UV rays from the sun and the heat from it can easily come through with a skylight. Thus, your furniture may be at risk of interior damage because of a skylight. In such a case, it’s important to make sure that your skylight is laminated or has tempered glass with a tinted coating so it can also control the heat and UV from outside. Otherwise, you’ll need to cover your furniture to avoid any future damage.
Most Wanted Skylight Contractor
Coastal Roof Experts has made it easy to achieve a longer-lasting, sturdy roofing system for residential and commercial properties in the area. Our process of providing various roofing services remains the safest and most affordable on the South Shore. You can trust our experts to take your roofing project to the next level.
Your roof is your family’s protection against the elements. Because of that, our team of highly-skilled and knowledgeable roofers ensures that no details are missed. When you choose Coastal Roof
Experts, you’ll have everything you need to complete a hassle-free roofing project. From the nails we use to the roofing materials we install, safety and durability are guaranteed.
We are a Quincy-based professional roofing contractor you can trust. Our roofing services include new roof installation as well as roof repair and replacement. We’ll make this dangerous job look easy using only the most effective equipment coupled with our extensive training. With the help of our team of capable roofers, you’ll never have to risk your life to climb up to your roof again. Don’t wait until you see leaks coming from your roof. Get in touch with us today by calling us at 781-423-1439.
Frequently Ask Questions
Is it a good idea to put in a skylight?
Yes, installing a skylight can be a good idea if you’re looking to increase natural light, improve ventilation, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of a room. Skylights can brighten up spaces and make them feel larger, which is especially helpful in rooms with limited windows. However, they also come with potential downsides, such as installation costs, a higher risk of leaks, and possible UV-related damage to interior furnishings. Weighing the benefits and potential challenges can help determine if skylights are right for your home.
What is the better alternative to skylights?
If skylights aren’t ideal for your home or budget, tubular skylights (also known as sun tunnels) offer a great alternative. They are smaller, more affordable, and easier to install. Additionally, energy-efficient windows or solar tubes may also help bring in natural light without the structural considerations of a traditional skylight. For ventilation, consider adding windows that can open or investing in an energy-efficient ventilation system.
Do skylights make a house hotter?
Skylights can increase the heat in a home, especially in summer or warmer climates, as they allow sunlight to enter directly. To counteract this, consider skylights with low-E (low emissivity) or tinted glass, which can help reduce heat transmission. Additionally, vented skylights can be opened to release trapped warm air, helping to cool the room naturally.
How often should skylights be cleaned?
Skylights should ideally be cleaned every six months to a year, depending on environmental conditions and debris buildup. Regular cleaning helps maximize light entry and prevent grime buildup that can dull the glass. For skylights exposed to heavy foliage or frequent weather, consider more frequent cleanings to maintain their appearance and functionality.
Do skylights add value to a home?
Yes, skylights can add value to a home by enhancing natural lighting and improving the aesthetic appeal of a room. They make spaces look larger and more inviting, which can be attractive to potential buyers. However, maintaining the skylights in good condition is important, as damaged or leaky skylights may detract from home value.
What is the life expectancy of a skylight?
The life expectancy of a skylight typically ranges from 10 to 20 years, depending on the quality of the materials, installation, and maintenance. Over time, seals and glazing can deteriorate, which may lead to leaks and other issues. Regular inspections and maintenance can help extend the life of your skylight, but it’s wise to consider replacing them after 15–20 years to avoid potential problems.
