Installing a skylight roof means allowing natural light into your home, improving your mood, and increasing your home’s resale value. Since a skylight roof can be a costly installation, it is important you gain as much knowledge about it as possible. Knowing what to ask the installer can help you gain valuable insights into making the right decisions.
Here are 7 important questions to ask before installing a skylight roof.
1. Are Skylights Suited for My Roof?
Not every type of roof is suited for skylights. They are installed below the roofline and under the shingles. Your roofer can help determine whether your roof can support the skylight’s weight.
If your roof has rafters, it can support a skylight. Truss-framed roofs are usually not suited for installing skylights.
2. What is the Ideal Spot for Installing the Skylight?
Your roofing company should help you determine the right spots for installing skylights. This includes taking the following factors into account:
- The direction of sunrise & sunset
- The skylight’s position for getting the most sunlight
- The position of the building rafters
3. Will My Skylights be made with Glass?
The skylight glaze can be made of glass or plastic. Both glass and plastic have their unique benefits and properties. You should know the following about the different materials:
- Glass is heavier and costs more than plastic glaze
- Glass skylights are more effective at filtering UV rays
- Glass is also more durable
- Plastic glaze offers greater cost-efficiency
- Glass tends to offer better insulation
Plastic glaze is also available with decent durability. The other materials used in making a skylight include a wooden frame and metal and vinyl holders.
4. Should I install a Stationary or Vented Skylight?
When you install a vented skylight, you can increase the air circulation across your home. Choosing vents will, however, increase the cost of skylight installation. The cost of ownership is also higher because vented skylights require greater maintenance.
You should know the following points about both fixed and vented skylights:
- Fixed skylights help prevent leaks and keep moisture out
- Fixed skylights offer greater energy efficiency by preventing indoor air loss
- Vented skylights can be motorized or manual
- It is important to ensure your vented skylight is firmly shut when not in use
5. How much Maintenance will my New Skylights Need?
It is important to know the cost of ownership before you install any skylights. Keep the following points in mind in this regard:
- Your skylights will need an occasional inspection to check for any leaks
- Keep an eye out for any discoloration around the skylight
- Your skylights will need occasional dusting to ensure light enters unhampered
- Whenever the skylight becomes dirty, use soap and water to clean both the sides
6. What are the Main Qualities of a Good Skylight?
Your skylights must always offer wind and load resistance. They should be weather-tight. You should also expect the roofing company to install skylights that are energy-efficient and reduce sound.
You can also ask for additional qualities when discussing your skylight preferences. Ask the roofer about UV coatings. Find out if they offer shading options.
7. How Long Can Skylight Installation Take?
Skylight installation projects can take anywhere from half a day to up to three days. The factors that affect the duration of the project’s completion include:
- The materials and their complexities
- The skylight’s shape
- The way the skylight will be positioned
Installing multiple skylights and the need to build a light shaft for accommodating flat ceilings can include the installation time.
These are some of the most important questions you want to ask your skylight installer before getting started. This can help you make the right choices, get the most out of your skylight installation, and save valuable time and money.
