Skylights Pros and Cons: Should You Spend the Money?

Skylight

If you’ve ever had a skylight you know how pretty they can be. It’s pretty amazing to watch the snowfall or to see the stars in the sky at night when you look through one.  This is the main reason people want them despite the expensive price tag. If you are considering one, you’ll have all the info you need before making the final decision to have one installed.

The Pros of a Rooftop Skylight

Skylights allow natural light to enter the interior places that can’t otherwise get that type of light. An example of this could be a bathroom or bedroom in the middle of your house that has no windows or a bedroom that has no natural light.

There are many different types and sizes of skylights that you can install which is a bonus when selecting one. A venting skylight can be a source of fresh air and act as a natural cooling method in summer months.

Installed in the right place, a skylight can provide indirect solar energy too which is a great benefit.

The Cons of Skylights

The cons of having a skylight are something you must really consider. Having a skylight is a bit like owning a pet- if you know what to expect, it’s not a big deal but if you don’t, then you may be in for some surprises.

Skylights are expensive – plain and simple. This includes the installation, upkeep and even your energy bills if not positioned correctly. They will also gradually create wear and tear on your roof and because they are prone to leaking, they must be carefully maintained. Some insurance companies may take this into consideration when ensuring your home, causing your premiums to go up.

Roof Leaks are Common

You can see more roof leaks. Yes, we said roof leaks.  This is why buying a high-quality skylight is essential. It is smart to stay away from glazed or plastic skylights because they crack and discolor easily. These skylights are cheaper at first but sadly you’ll end up paying more in the long run to maintain them.

You cannot skimp on the installation and materials

Proper installation and the right materials used to secure and seal your skylight are very important. You’ll also want to make sure the skylight is adequately secured and sealed. Making sure your skylight is properly sealed and secure will not only prevent leaks but will also prevent structural roof damage in the future,.

When having a skylight installed, you’ll also need to make sure a “curb” is installed. This helps to make the skylight watertight and will deflect the water away when it rains. Do not skip this step to save money. Additionally, you will need to make sure proper flashing is used and that all the joints are sealed well.

Interior Damage Due to Sunlight

As sunlight enters the interior of your home, damage to your furniture, flooring, or carpet is going to be a concern. Check to make sure the skylight you purchase is laminated or made of tempered glass.  If you find your furniture or flooring are still suffering, you may have to install a shade or screen to prevent the sun from doing further damage.

Roof Damage is Possible

Installing a large skylight can potentially damage your roof structurally speaking. This is why it may be smart to have a licensed roofing contractor consult on the installation. You will need to know information about your roof, for instance, if you have a truss roof.

Are You Considering a Skylight?

As we mentioned, it’s essential to check with an experienced licensed roofing contractor who can help you know what types of costs you’ll be looking at when considering a skylight installation. It’s best to do your due diligence and know that everything will be installed properly. If you have any questions or are having problems with a currently installed skylight, don’t hesitate to reach out today.