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| | | Also called a sky window or a roof window, a skylight is basically a window designed to be installed on a roof (and made to withstand the more vigorous weather a roof receives). A skylight can add both daylight and warmth to a room, and a properly installed energy-efficient model can cut down on heating, cooling and lighting costs. As a lower-cost option, a tubular skylight (also called a light pipe or sun pipe) consists of a roof-mounted light-collecting dome connected to a highly reflective tube which delivers light to a lens in a ceiling opening that resembles recessed lighting. | | |
| Typical costs: | - The price for a tubular skylight (without installation) starts around $150 -$250 for a small, basic model to $500 -$600 or more for a large, deluxe version. Installation can add another $325 -$500, depending on size and how far the tube has to run from the roof, for a total installed cost of $475 -$700 for a basic model, or $650 -$1,100 for a larger, more stylish version.
- The cost of just the skylight (without installation) starts around $150 -$250 for a fixed model (it doesn't open). A venting skylight (a section opens for ventilation) starts around $300 -$600 for a manual version, and an electric option with a remote control can be $650 -$1,000 or more, depending on size and style. Blinds, shades or special treatments can add another $200 -$300 or more. Installation can run $300 -$1,300 or more, depending on the size of the project and whether a light well has to be framed through an attic space. The total cost for both labor and materials runs about $500 -$1,300 for a standard fixed skylight; a venting skylight with several options (such as special glass, a remote control and built-in blinds) can be $1,200 -$5,000, and large custom projects could cost more.
What should be included: | - Skylights provide 30 percent more light than vertical windows of the same size, and distribute light more evenly in a room. Home Energy Magazine provides a skylight overview and glossary. Having a standard skylight installed can take 1-2 weeks, depending on factors such as the size of the skylight, the configuration of the roof and ceiling, and whether a light well needs to be framed through an attic. BobVila.com displays a video of professionals installing a 4x6-foot custom skylight.
- The two most important factors to consider are slope and moisture control (preventing leaks). According to the US Department of Energy, it's best to have an energy efficient skylight professionally installed. And a skylight that works well in Florida might not be as good in Michigan; so EnergyStar.gov lists the qualities needed in a skylight based on climate zones.
- Tubular skylights are typically 10-22 inches in diameter, and are designed to be used in spaces that are too small for a traditional skylight. Inside the room they resemble overhead lighting, and are often installed in bathrooms and laundry rooms -- or anywhere you want to bring in natural light as inexpensively as possible. They provide diffuse, indirect sunlight that is less likely to cause UV damage to carpets or furniture. A typical installation does not require any structural changes to the house because the tube fits between rafters and other structural elements. Installation usually takes about 2-3 hours. RonHazelton.com gives do-it-yourself instructions for installing a tubular skylight.
- Check with your local planning department to see if a building permit is required to install a skylight.
Additional costs: | - If your skylight lets in too much light and heat and doesn't have built-in shading, you might want a skylight solar cover which sell for $30 -$300 or more.
Shopping for a skylight: | - Look around for an idea of what you might like, as well as what might work in your space. HomePortfolio.com provides a photo gallery of examples and Lowes.com gives tips for selecting a skylight.
- Major manufacturers who specialize in skylights include Velux and Solatube, and they provide links to dealers or installers. It's usually best to use a contractor who specializes in skylights and is familiar with the brand you selectedAsk for (and verify) references. The written contract should include a detailed outline of the work required and materials used, dates within which the project will be done, and a payment schedule.
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Article updated December 2008 |
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