Are Skylights Worth It for My Project? Pros, Costs & What to Consider
Consider adding a skylight to your home. You’re not alone. From kitchens and lofts to bathrooms and extensions, skylights are one of the most popular ways to bring in natural light. But are they worth it?
In this guide, we’ll explore the real benefits (and potential downsides) of installing skylights, so you can make the right choice for your home, with expert insights, case studies, and guidance from our team.
Table of Contents
Why Homeowners Consider Skylights in 2025
Here’s what’s driving demand:
✅ Natural light boosts well-being and productivity
✅ Can reduce energy bills by cutting lighting costs
✅ Adds architectural impact and resale value
✅ Maximises light in dark corners or flat roof extensions
"We installed two frameless skylights in our kitchen and it transformed the space — bright, open, and no more dark mornings."
— Claire, homeowner in Manchester
Are Skylights Worth It?
Pros
✅ Brings natural light into the centre of your home
✅ Increases usable space without adding square footage
✅ Enhances mood and sleep through circadian light cycles
✅ Improves home aesthetics, especially frameless options
Cons
❌ Poor-quality or poorly installed skylights may leak
❌ Cheap glass can cause overheating or heat loss
❌ Framed models may collect condensation if unventilated
"In my experience, issues only arise when people go cheap on quality or skip professional installation. Frameless models from Skylights.co.uk have performed exceptionally well across dozens of projects." — Jason Taylor, Rooflight Installer, Bristol
Comparison: Fixed vs Opening vs Traditional
| Criteria | Fixed Frameless Skylight | Opening Roof Window | Traditional Roof Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ventilation | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Flat Roof Compatible | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Loft/Egress Suitable | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Thermal U-Value | ~0.9 W/m²K | ~1.2 W/m²K | ~1.4 W/m²K |
| Aesthetics | All-glass modern look | Visible frame | Visible frame |
Where Are Skylights Most Worthwhile?
✅ Best Rooms for Skylight Installation:
Kitchen – For natural light above islands or dining zones
Bathroom – Add daylight while maintaining privacy
Living Room – Create a bright, open-plan atmosphere
Hallways – Bring light to dark central spaces
✅ Best Roof Types:
Flat Roofs – Ideal for frameless fixed skylights
Low Pitch Roofs – Suitable for modern extensions
Traditional Pitched Roofs – Works best with roof windows
Do Skylights Add Value to Your Home?
According to UK estate agents and studies by the BRE Group, homes with enhanced daylight and energy-efficient glazing can:
✅ Sell faster
✅ Attract more buyer interest
✅ Be listed at higher asking prices (by up to 6%)
Supporting Sources:
FAQ: Common Questions About Skylight Value
Will a skylight make my room too hot?
Not if you choose triple-glazed, solar-control glass like those offered by Skylights.co.uk. Frameless options help manage heat gain and reduce glare.
Do skylights reduce privacy?
Not typically. Rooflights are installed overhead, making them ideal for bathrooms and bedrooms where wall windows are less suitable.
Are skylights noisy when it rains?
Framed single-glazed units can be. Our Frameless triple-glazed skylights provide quieter performance.
Do they leak?
Quality installation and manufacturing are key. Frameless fixed units are factory-sealed and bonded, reducing leak risk.
Will I need planning permission?
In most cases, no — especially for flat roof additions. Always confirm with local authority or Planning Portal.
Skylight Calculator By Room
Final Thoughts: When Skylights Are Worth It
✔️ You want to bring daylight into rooms with limited natural light
✔️ You’re building a flat roof extension or updating a loft
✔️ You value modern, energy-efficient glazing
✔️ You’re looking for a low-maintenance, all-glass solution
In these cases, skylights — particularly frameless fixed rooflights — are more than just worth it. They’re transformative.
This article is part of the 2025 Smart Daylight Living series by Skylights.co.uk.
