Choosing the right skylight for your home is an important decision that can impact everything from the natural light in your space to energy efficiency and home design. Skylights are a fantastic way to bring in natural light, create a sense of openness, and reduce the need for artificial lighting. However, with so many options available, selecting the best skylight for your specific needs can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a skylight, including roof type, skylight features, and room-specific recommendations. Whether you’re looking for better light in your living room or improved ventilation in your kitchen, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Assessing Your Roof Type
One of the first things to consider when choosing a skylight is the type of roof your home has. The roof’s pitch and material will determine which skylights are suitable for your space. Understanding your roof type ensures that you choose a skylight that not only fits but also performs well in terms of durability and energy efficiency.
Flat Roof Skylights
If your home has a flat roof, you’ll need a skylight designed specifically for flat surfaces. Flat Roof Skylights offer a sleek, low-profile design that blends seamlessly into modern architecture while providing plenty of natural light. They’re perfect for contemporary homes or extensions where you want to maximize light without sacrificing aesthetics.
Product Tip: Flat roof skylights like our Solar Framed Skylights are not only stylish but also energy-efficient, making them a great choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
Pitched Roof Skylights
For homes with sloped or pitched roofs, you’ll want a skylight designed for angled surfaces. Pitched Roof Skylights are versatile and come in various shapes and sizes, making them suitable for traditional homes, loft conversions, or attic spaces. These skylights allow for effective water drainage and maintain their durability over time.
Product Tip: Our range of Roto Windows includes models with venting options for better airflow in addition to natural light.
Key Consideration: When assessing your roof type, also consider the material. Whether your roof is made of tiles, shingles, or metal can impact the type of installation and the skylight’s compatibility.
Understanding Different Types of Skylights
Once you’ve identified your roof type, it’s time to choose the best skylight style based on your functional needs. Skylights come in a range of styles, from fixed to vented, and even automated options. Understanding these differences is key to finding the right fit for your home.
Fixed Skylights
Fixed skylights are non-operable, meaning they don’t open for ventilation. Their sole purpose is to let in natural light, making them perfect for areas like living rooms, hallways, or spaces that don’t require extra airflow. These skylights are typically more affordable and easier to install than operable options.
Vented Skylights
Vented skylights can be opened, either manually or automatically, to allow for airflow. They are ideal for spaces that need both natural light and ventilation, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Venting skylights help regulate indoor temperature and reduce humidity in moisture-prone areas.
Product Tip: Electric Opening Skylights offer the convenience of remote-controlled ventilation, perfect for hard-to-reach areas like vaulted ceilings.
Solar Framed Skylights
These eco-friendly skylights are powered by solar energy, allowing them to open and close automatically based on temperature or humidity. Solar Framed Skylights are a great option for homeowners looking to reduce their energy footprint while maintaining indoor comfort.
Product Tip: Solar skylights are a fantastic addition to energy-efficient homes, especially when paired with Skylight Blinds that offer additional control over light and heat.
Round Skylights
Round skylights, or tubular skylights, are designed for smaller spaces where traditional skylights might be too large or intrusive. They use a reflective tube to funnel natural light from the roof into small rooms like closets, hallways, or bathrooms.
Product Tip: Round Skylights are a stylish and space-saving solution for brightening narrow spaces without taking up much ceiling real estate.
Custom Skylights
For homes with unique roof shapes or architectural designs, custom skylights can be tailored to fit specific dimensions. Custom Skylights provide flexibility in both size and shape, making them ideal for homeowners with distinct design preferences.
Key Consideration: When selecting a skylight type, consider the room’s functional needs. Fixed skylights are best for rooms where light is the main focus, while vented or solar-powered skylights are ideal for spaces that need ventilation or automated control.
Skylight Features to Consider
Choosing the right skylight goes beyond the basic type. Features like glazing, blinds, and upstands can significantly affect the skylight’s performance in terms of energy efficiency, light control, and weather protection. Here are some features to keep in mind when making your selection:
Glazing Options
The glazing of a skylight refers to the type of glass or polycarbonate used in its construction. Double or triple glazing is commonly used for skylights to improve insulation and energy efficiency. Look for glazing with Low-E (Low Emissivity) coatings, which help reduce heat gain in the summer and prevent heat loss in the winter.
Product Tip: ROTO Windows come with advanced glazing options that offer superior energy efficiency and noise reduction, making them perfect for homes in busy or extreme weather environments.
Skylight Blinds
Skylight Blinds are an essential accessory for controlling the amount of light and heat that enters through your skylight. Blinds can also provide privacy, especially in bedrooms or bathrooms. Options include blackout blinds for complete darkness and light-filtering blinds for soft, diffused light.
Product Tip: Our Electric Skylight Blinds offer automated control, allowing you to adjust the blinds with a remote or smart home integration.
Skylight Upstands
Skylight Upstands are raised frames that elevate the skylight above the roof level, improving insulation and preventing water from pooling around the base. This is especially important for flat roof installations where water drainage can be a challenge. A properly installed upstand ensures that your skylight remains leak-free and energy-efficient.
Key Consideration: When selecting these additional features, consider the climate you live in and how much control you want over the skylight’s functionality. Proper glazing and blinds can make a significant difference in both comfort and energy savings.
Skylights for Different Rooms
Every room in your home has unique lighting and ventilation needs, and choosing the right skylight depends on the room’s function and layout. Here’s a breakdown of how to choose skylights for specific rooms to maximize comfort, light, and aesthetics.
Living Rooms and Open Spaces
Large, open spaces like living rooms benefit from skylights that provide ample natural light and become a design feature. Consider skylights that not only brighten the room but also enhance the architecture.
- Framed Modular Skylights: These skylights are perfect for large, open-plan spaces that need multiple skylights to flood the area with light. Framed modular skylights are pre-assembled for ease of installation and create a modern, streamlined look.
- Roof Lanterns: If you want to make a bold design statement, roof lanterns are an excellent choice. They bring in maximum light and are ideal for open spaces or extensions, such as kitchen-dining areas. Roof lanterns provide both function and aesthetic appeal, giving your space an expansive, luxurious feel.
Product Tip: Roof lanterns and Framed Modular Skylights are perfect for creating focal points in rooms where both natural light and design matter.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
These moisture-prone rooms require skylights that not only provide light but also help manage humidity and ventilation. Vented skylights are ideal for improving airflow in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, where condensation can be an issue.
- Electric Opening Skylights: These skylights are equipped with remote control operation, making them perfect for kitchens or bathrooms where you may need regular ventilation. They provide the perfect combination of light and airflow.
- Solar Framed Skylights: For an eco-friendly option, solar-powered skylights open and close automatically based on temperature or humidity levels. These are ideal for maintaining air quality and comfort in kitchens and bathrooms without adding to your energy bill.
Product Tip: Our Electric Opening Skylights are perfect for areas where moisture control is essential, while Solar Framed Skylights offer an energy-efficient, hands-off solution for ventilation.
Bedrooms
In bedrooms, comfort, privacy, and light control are key. Skylights that offer both natural light and the option to block it out are ideal for maintaining a cozy and restful environment.
- Skylights with Blinds: Whether you choose Electric Opening Skylights or fixed skylights, adding Skylight Blinds allows you to control the amount of light entering your room. Blackout blinds are ideal for bedrooms, helping to maintain darkness for better sleep.
- Pitched Roof Skylights: If your bedroom has a sloped ceiling, Pitched Roof Skylights can fit seamlessly into the roof while offering natural light and ventilation. These skylights work especially well in attic conversions or loft bedrooms.
Product Tip: Add Skylight Blinds to bedrooms for maximum control over light and privacy, especially in areas where morning light may be too strong.
Hallways and Staircases
Hallways and stairwells are often darker, enclosed areas that benefit from small skylights to add light without taking up much space.
- Round Skylights: Compact and efficient, Round Skylights are perfect for narrow or tight spaces where traditional skylights might be too large or intrusive. They offer a simple yet effective way to brighten up dark hallways and staircases.
Product Tip: Our Round Skylights and Tubular Skylights are ideal for hallways or staircases that need just the right amount of light without overwhelming the space.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Skylights can play a significant role in improving your home’s energy efficiency. Properly selected and installed skylights can reduce heating, cooling, and lighting costs, making your home more sustainable and cost-effective in the long term.
Glazing for Energy Efficiency
The type of glazing on your skylight impacts how much heat is gained or lost through the glass. Double and triple-glazed skylights are designed to reduce energy transfer, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
- Low-E Coating: Skylights with Low-E (Low Emissivity) coatings are especially effective in managing heat. They allow light to pass through while reflecting infrared heat back into the room, which helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Product Tip: ROTO Windows are designed with advanced glazing and Low-E coatings, making them a great option for homeowners looking to reduce energy consumption.
Solar-Powered Skylights
For those looking to integrate sustainable technology into their home, Solar Framed Skylights are an eco-friendly option. These skylights use solar power to open and close automatically based on the temperature and humidity levels inside your home.
- Solar-Powered Operation: By harnessing the power of the sun, these skylights help reduce your reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning. They’re ideal for areas with high sun exposure and can significantly lower energy bills.
Product Tip: Our Solar Framed Skylights are a perfect choice for eco-conscious homeowners who want to reduce their energy usage while maintaining comfort.
Proper Installation for Efficiency
A well-installed skylight not only prevents energy loss but also ensures optimal performance. For flat roofs, using Skylight Upstands ensures the skylight is elevated enough to avoid water pooling around the base, which can affect insulation and lead to leaks. You can visit EPA’s page to find sustainable building materials used for our eco-friendly skylights.
- Insulation: Well-insulated skylights reduce unwanted heat transfer. Make sure to choose skylights with high-quality glazing and thermal breaks, particularly in climates with extreme temperatures.
Product Tip: Skylight Upstands are an essential accessory for improving energy efficiency, especially on flat roof installations. They help prevent water damage and ensure your skylight remains leak-free and insulated.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Skylight installation requires proper planning and expertise to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Whether you’re installing a small, fixed skylight or a large, operable roof window, the success of your installation relies on the correct techniques and regular maintenance.
Professional Installation vs. DIY
Skylight installation can vary in complexity based on the type of skylight and your roof’s configuration. Some skylights are easier to install than others, but in many cases, professional installation is recommended.
- DIY Installation: Fixed skylights, such as Polycarbonate Dome Skylights or Round Skylights, can sometimes be installed as a DIY project, especially if you have prior experience with roofing or window installations. These are typically simpler because they don’t involve moving parts or require complex ventilation systems.
- Professional Installation: Skylights like Walk-On Roof Windows, Roof Lanterns, or Electric Opening Skylights involve more intricate work, including proper flashing, wiring for automation, and precise sealing to prevent leaks. Professional installation ensures that your skylight is correctly fitted, safe, and long-lasting.
Product Tip: If you’re installing complex skylights like Framed Modular Skylights or roof-integrated options, professional installation is crucial to avoid long-term issues such as leaks, drafts, or structural damage.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance ensures your skylight remains in top condition and performs efficiently for years to come. Here are some essential maintenance tasks:
- Clean the Glass Regularly: Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate on the glass, reducing the amount of light that enters your home. Use a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth to clean the exterior and interior of the skylight.
- Inspect Seals and Flashing: Over time, the seals and flashing around your skylight may wear out, potentially causing leaks. Inspect these areas at least once a year and re-seal any cracks or gaps to prevent water damage.
- Check for Condensation: If you notice condensation forming on or around your skylight, it could be a sign of improper ventilation. Ensure your skylight has proper airflow, especially in moisture-prone areas like kitchens or bathrooms.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: If you have operable skylights, such as Electric Opening Skylights or ROTO Windows, ensure that all moving parts are well-lubricated to maintain smooth operation.
Product Tip: We recommend annual maintenance checks, especially for vented skylights like Electric Opening Skylights. If needed, schedule a professional inspection to ensure your skylights are functioning properly.
Final Thoughts and Choosing the Right Skylight for Your Home
Choosing the right skylight for your home requires a balance of style, functionality, and energy efficiency. By considering your roof type, the room’s specific needs, and the available accessories, you can find the perfect skylight to enhance your living space.
- For Large Living Spaces: Consider bold options like Framed Modular Skylights or Roof Lanterns that provide maximum light and create stunning focal points.
- For Kitchens and Bathrooms: Opt for vented skylights such as Electric Opening Skylights or Solar Framed Skylights that help manage humidity and maintain indoor air quality.
- For Bedrooms: Use skylights with Blackout Blinds to control light levels and ensure comfort at night.
- For Energy Efficiency: Choose skylights with Low-E glazing and consider Solar Framed Skylights to reduce energy consumption while maintaining comfort.
- For Flat Roofs: Don’t forget the importance of Skylight Upstands to improve insulation and prevent water damage.
Ready to transform your home with the perfect skylight? Explore our full collection of Flat Roof Skylights, Electric Opening Skylights, Roof Lanterns, and more on our website. If you need personalized advice or help with installation, contact our expert team today!