If you are looking for ways to add a touch of luxury to your home and want some extra light, consider installing a skylight. It is an excellent addition above an interior room that doesn’t get much natural light. It acts as a roof window and lets in warmth and close to five times more light than a window on a sidewall. If you want a skylight, it is best to educate yourself on the structural conditions and cost required to get one that works for you. Considering a few essentials can ensure you make an informed decision about a skylight installation.
Things You Should Know About Skylights
Skylights Aren’t Suitable for All Roof Types
Since they are installed beneath the roof shingles and sheathing at the roofline, you need to ensure your roof can support the skylight. Factor in the framing, which will be one of two types:
- Truss-Framed Roofs – are made of prefabricated triangular units and quite challenging to cut after installation, which is why they are not the best choice for skylights.
- Stick-Framed Roofs – are typically built using individual rafters with space in between. Since they have enough room for a skylight, they are a better choice for roof windows.
In addition to this, you also need to consider the slope of the roof. Hip, gable, and shed roof types have enough slope to divert debris and rainwater downward, making them an ideal option.
Options for Glazing
Skylights mostly consist of vinyl, wood, or metal frames with a light-transmitting element known as glazing. You can choose between the following options:
- Glass Glazing
Although it is expensive and heavier than the plastic counterpart, glass is widely preferred. It is clear, impact and scratch-resistant, resists discolouration, helps block UV rays and is available in custom shapes and sizes. When opting for glass glazing, be sure to select a laminated or tempered glass to avoid sharp shards if it were to break. You may also consider a double-paned skylight for a more durable option. - Plastic Glazing
It is less expensive, lighter, and less likely to break than glass. However, it becomes discoloured over time, scratches easily, and is only available in standard shapes and sizes.
Protective Coverings for Skylights
Although installing a skylight allows more natural light inside a room, you can tone down the brightness, heat, and glare and improve privacy and comfort. A shade or a coloured window film are the best options. Doing so will help you create a warm and inviting feel in the room while letting in natural light. Also, installing shades is an excellent way to control the amount of light inside the room, depending on your needs and mood.
Skylights Can Let in Light and Air
In addition to the fixed varieties, skylights are also available in vented styles. You can have motorized or manual options to let in some fresh air and natural light. They are often installed in closed rooms such as attics that don’t otherwise receive much ventilation, but they can work for any room in your home.
Where to Install a Skylight
It is best to select a room that is directly below the roof and meets the slope requirements. Also, the direction of the skylight is an essential aspect to ensure year-round illumination.
Maintaining A Skylight
Before installing a skylight, you need to have an idea of the maintenance work it involves, including the following:
- Look out for damp spots and examine for leaks regularly.
- Deep-clean skylights at least once a year using soapy water and a mop.
- Clean snow build-up before it freezes and forms ice dams.
- Hire professionals to inspect any structural damage and perform skylight repairs.
Best Season for Skylight Installation
Hiring a reputable roofing company is the best way to get the desired results. Although summertime is ideal for skylight installation, choosing the right professionals can ensure you have this service year-round. However, it is essential to consider the likelihood of rain and snowfall to avoid any delays.
Myths About Skylight Installation
- All Skylights Tend to Leak
Like any other roofing accessory, using inferior materials or improper installation may cause leakages. However, professional installation provides excellent results. - Skylights Are Too Bright
When installing, you can opt for durable choices and other options such as tempered glass or shades to control the light that comes in. - Skylight Installation is Too Complex
Although the installation process requires you to consider several aspects to ensure you make the right choice, hiring the right professionals can give you peace of mind that your skylight is installed correctly. - It Requires Continuous Maintenance
Skylights are made of impact-resistant materials that can withstand harsh climates. Regular maintenance can keep them in excellent condition, but they do not require an excessive amount. - They Negatively Impact Overall Energy Efficiency
It helps to know that there are many options available that are rated by Energy Star and can help you achieve lower bills by reducing the cost of daytime lighting. - You Cannot Adjust the Light
When installing skylights, you have the option of using dimmers, shades, and more to control the natural illumination as per your requirements.
Connect with Our Expert Skylight Installers Now!
Our experts will be happy to discuss your needs and help you select the right roofing system while ensuring you receive the best service.
- Skylight installation
- Skylight replacement
- Skylight repairs
We offer quick, efficient, and quality services. Our roofing specialists will assess your property, understand your needs, and recommend the best possibilities and locations for installing a skylight. Our team is equipped to provide fast and reliable repairs at competitive prices. We also offer energy upgrades and glass replacement, depending on your requirements.
If you are looking for a professional skylight installer in Toronto and the GTA, be sure to contact us by calling 647-704-3084. You can also fill out our online contact form to request a free roofing estimate. We’ll be happy to schedule your skylight installation when you’re ready.
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