How to Choose the Right Type of Skylight

A skylight is a window in your roof. The main benefit of a skylight is the extra, natural light. Aesthetically it can make the room feel more spacious and can increase the resale value of the property. Depending on the design and placement, it can also bring in some fresh air through ventilation and can increase solar heat. Of course, a poor quality skylight or improper installation will result in a nightmare.
Types of Skylights
There are a number of choices, possibly more than you imagined. We will look at some of those options.
- Fixed
– These are windows that do not open.
- Vented
– These look much like the fixed skylights but can open by hand or electronic remote control. This will allow for the fresh air and are usually found in areas with high humidity like bathrooms or kitchens. They can also function as an egress in emergency situations if they are properly accessible.
- Tubular – These are also referred to as solar skylights. These are not traditional window-like units, but are long tubes that will reflect light into the structure. They are popular for small spaces like bathrooms or hallways. They are also beneficial because they can fit between wiring or other attic obstructions. Options include exhaust fans for moisture control and a UV filter. The downside is that you will not have a view.
Skylight Mountings
Installation methods will also vary, here are a few choices:
- Deck-Mounted
– This is when the window is directly attached to the roof.
- Curb-Mounted – This is when the when the skylight is slightly raised from the surface of the roof.
Styles of Skylights
This deals with the shape and layout.
- Flat Roof
– This will follow the slope of the roof.
- Round
– These look round from the inside but are flat outside.
- Dome – These seem rectangular inside but can also be round and the exterior projects into a dome shape.
If you’re looking for more information about which type of skylight will work best for your home, contact our team at Harris Pro Roofing today.