Skylights are a great addition to any standard roofing installation to add light where there is none and create a warmer, more natural environment.
As appealing as having a roofing contractor install a skylight may be, there are important details to know about them before committing to the installation.
These tips from roofing companies experienced with skylight installation can help homeowners make the best choice and know what they are getting for their money.
- Skylight Shape Matters - The shape of the glass on a skylight dictates how the light shines through it. Lights with straight edges and corners shine a straight, more focused beam of direct light into the space, while those with flared, softer edges shine a gentler, more spread-out beam to increase the level of light in the whole room.
- Glass Over Acrylic - Although acrylic skylights are considerably less expensive than glass ones, they will eventually oxidize and yellow with age or become brittle. A glass skylight installed by professional roofing contractors stays clear and durable throughout the years, and will not end up clouded from exposure to the outdoor climate, letting in bright clean light. Double-insulated or UV-coated glass is also a great choice for minimizing the passage of UV and infrared lights that will heat up a home without reducing the amount of visual light it allows through.
- Consider The Glare When Positioning - Skylights installed by roofing contractors sometimes create glares in the room depending on the time of day and the angle at which the sun is shining. This can create uncomfortable conditions, heat up a room, and even fade out fabrics in the room if not properly managed. Position the light in a spot that is less likely to be affected by an uncomfortable glare or install a sun shade on the window frame so that any glare can be controlled.
- Pick The Right Options - Skylights can be purchased with a variety of options for a roofing installation that make them more useful and add to home comfort. Before installing, discuss the various types of manual and automatic vented skylights that are available with a roofing contractor, as well as those that include window shades to reduce glare, and other customizable features.
- Anticipate Installation Time - Understand that adding skylights to a roofing installation can take anywhere from a few hours to multiple days for just one skylight, so it is best to get a time estimate from the contractor ahead of time. The more skylights a roofing company will be installing, the longer the installation will take, as this is a specialty type of installation that must be correctly done with precision.
Ready to install a few beautiful, illuminating skylights?
Discuss it today with a skilled roofing contractor nearby experienced in these helpful home and roofing accessories!