Fixed vs. Venting Skylights: Which One Should I Choose?
Thinking about adding a skylight to your home but not sure whether to go with a fixed or venting model? You’re not alone — this is one of the first questions homeowners ask when browsing skylight options. Both types bring in gorgeous natural light and can elevate your interior space, but they serve slightly different purposes. The right choice really depends on your room, lifestyle, and airflow needs. Let's break it down in plain English.
Table of Contents
🤔 What's the Difference Between Fixed and Venting Skylights?
Fixed skylights are sealed, non-opening windows installed in the roof. Their only job? To let in natural light. They’re sleek, simple, and great for rooms where ventilation isn’t a top priority — like hallways, stairwells, or living rooms.
Venting skylights, on the other hand, can open — either manually or automatically (some are even solar-powered!). These are perfect for spaces that get humid, stuffy, or need better airflow — like kitchens, bathrooms, or attics.
🧠Real Questions
It depends on what you need. If you just want extra daylight, fixed is great. But if you want fresh air or moisture control, go venting.
Yes, slightly. Expect to pay more for the mechanical components and installation, but the added comfort (and potential energy savings) can be worth it.
Absolutely. Retrofit options are available, and many don’t require electrical wiring — especially solar-powered models.
🏠Best Rooms for Each Type
| Room | Fixed Skylight ✔️ | Venting Skylight ✔️✔️ |
|---|---|---|
| Living Room | âś… | Optional |
| Bathroom | đźš« | âś… Best Choice |
| Kitchen | đźš« | âś… Helps with steam |
| Bedroom | âś… | âś… (Adds fresh air) |
| Hallway/Stairwell | âś… | Not usually needed |
🛠️ Installation Tips
For Fixed Skylights: Keep the placement strategic. You want to maximize daylight without overheating a room.
For Venting Skylights: Make sure they’re reachable or come with remote/automated openers. Many now come with rain sensors, too!
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re in a high-moisture area or planning for a bathroom or kitchen skylight, always choose vented. Fixed skylights in humid spaces can trap moisture, leading to mold over time.
🔍 Summary Table
| Feature | Fixed Skylight | Venting Skylight |
|---|---|---|
| Opens for airflow? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Ideal for humid rooms? | đźš« No | âś… Yes |
| Price range | 💲 Lower | 💲💲 Medium–High |
| Maintenance | 🧼 Low | 🧼 Medium (check mechanics) |
| Energy-efficient? | âś… Yes | âś… Yes (with proper glazing) |
🙌 Final Thoughts
If you’re just looking to brighten up a space, go fixed and save some money. But if air circulation, comfort, or humidity control is a factor — venting skylights are 100% worth the upgrade.
In many cases, a mix of both works best. For example, a fixed skylight in the hallway and a venting skylight in the bathroom? That’s a match made in daylight heaven.
🚀 Still deciding?
🔦 Explore our full collection of Fixed and Venting Skylights — with solar-powered, energy-efficient, and modern designs perfect for any room in your home.
👉 Shop Skylights Now
