Should You Install Skylights?
Admin • September 24, 2019
Windows are essential for homes because they let in light and allow you to see what's going on outside. Skylights are less common than traditional windows, but they can be a great addition to your home.
If you are considering installing skylights, but you aren't sure if they are the right choice, keep reading to learn more about their pros and cons.
How Much Do They Cost?
Depending on the type of skylight you choose, they can cost between $150 and $4,000
. Tubular skylights are the cheapest at about $150 to $600 plus $300 to $700 for professional installation. Fixed skylights usually cost about $400 to $1300 per window, including labor. Finally, vented skylights, which can be opened to let in/out air, cost $300 to $1,200 for the window and up to $4000 for installation.
Vented skylights will also need attention from a licensed electrician because the window is remotely controlled. Additionally, you may have to pay more if you want UV protection to prevent damaging UV rays from penetrating the window.
Generally, replacing old windows or installing new ones can actually boost the value of your home because windows have a great return on investment (ROI). This is especially the case if you choose solar-powered skylights.
Make sure when you do install skylights, you talk with your contractor about proper sizing and position.
What Are the Benefits?
The biggest benefits of skylights are additional natural light and energy savings. Most people prefer a home with lots of natural sunlight, which makes seeing inside your house easier, but it may also help with your mood and productivity. The extra windows and light can also make the room feel bigger, which may help when it's time to resell.
The window also provides natural heat from the sun, which means during the winter that you may not have to use your furnace as much or at all. If the skylight has ventilation, it can also help during the summer to let hot air escape via the roof.
Make sure you only work with a licensed window contracting company. Incorrect installation, using the wrong materials, etc. can actually worsen your home's energy efficiency. The cooled or heated air can easily pass through small cracks and non-laminated glass.
What Are the Drawbacks?
One drawback of installing skylights is the chance they can break. This is less common if you choose laminated glass, but it is possible for a tree branch to fall on your window and break it. This will drastically reduce energy efficiency and may allow rain to enter the home, causing expensive water damage.
Another drawback is that the window provides too much light/heat. When you live in a hot climate, having large windows may let in too much heat. This can be avoided by working with a contractor who understands the specific needs of your area. UV coatings will help keep out some heat by blocking invisible light rays.
Lastly, with a skylight, you have a new window to clean, and reaching it can be difficult, especially if you have high ceilings. To clean the outside of the window, you'll need to get on your roof, which can cause damage if you don't know how to walk on a roof properly.
Skylights can be a great way to boost the value of your home, add natural light, and reduce energy spending. However, as with any home upgrade or renovation, if the project is done wrong, it can lead to expensive complications.
If you believe skylights can benefit your home, contact us
at Mikro Corporation to learn more or get a quote.
