Skylight

Energy efficient illumination is a priority in most homes, but conventional windows aren't always the most practical solution. A well insulated, high performance skylight can flood a room with daylight without creating a source of heat loss in your home. A skylight brings clarity and a touch of drama to your living room, kitchen, bathroom or studio. In small, dimly lit spaces, where installing a new window isn't possible, a skylight can give you the lighting effects you're looking for without a major structural renovation.

When you're choosing the best skylight for your house or office, consult an experienced contractor who's familiar with the local climate. The placement and size of your skylight can affect the performance of this new window. If you live in a predominantly cold climate, you may want to position the skylight to maximize passive solar heat gain. If you live in an area of the country that has high temperatures for most of the year, you'll want to minimize the overpowering effects of the sun. Talk with a knowledgeable local professional about how you can make the most of this dramatic feature.

Selecting Skylights

The type of skylight you choose will make a difference in the illumination, ventilation and temperature control of your room. A skylight can provide significantly more illumination than a conventional window, making this feature a desirable option in smaller rooms with poor interior lighting. By selecting the right type and size of skylight, you may reduce your utility bills by maximizing the use of natural daylight and cutting your electricity usage.

The first step in choosing the right product is consider the three types of skylight and how their performance will affect your room. Homeowners who want to increase daylighting without sacrificing insulation may prefer a fixed unit. Fixed models are sealed against the elements and do not open, providing protection against rain, snow, wind and temperature extremes. In areas of your home where you don't require ventilation, like foyers, hallways or stairwells, fixed units can flood darkened areas with light without compromising insulation.

In rooms where ventilation is a key concern, like bathrooms and kitchens, ventilating units may be preferable to fixed models. Ventilating units can be opened, closed and adjusted to increase air flow. In areas of the house that are exposed to high amounts of humidity or moisture, like the bathroom or laundry room, a ventilating skylight may be your best option.

Ventilating units are perfect for bathrooms, where the need to balance illumination with privacy is always a challenge. A ventilating window in the kitchen gives homeowners abundant light for cooking and preparing meals during the day, while allowing plenty of air flow. Ventilating units can be opened or closed with a remote control device, a manual hand crank or a system that responds to the interior temperature.

In areas of the home where you want to benefit from the energy savings of natural daylight, a tubular skylight offers a visually appealing alternative to fixed or ventilating models. These tubular windows capture and reflect light from various sources, reducing or eliminating the need for electrical light during the day. Homeowners with basic carpentry skills can install a tubular skylight in the living room, dining room, bathroom, kitchen or nursery within a fairly short time.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

The energy performance of a skylight is one of the most important considerations when you're comparing the features of these products. An experienced contractor can help you select a unit that's just the right size for your room. An opening that's too small won't admit enough daylight, while an excessively large opening can compromise insulation or admit too much sunlight.

Like conventional windows, skylights are tested for energy performance by independent, non-profit organizations. The National Fenestration Rating Council, or NFRC, rates these products, along with doors and windows, based on their ability to resist heat transfer, air infiltration, solar heat gain and condensation. When you shop for new window products, use the NFRC label as a guide to their energy performance.

The glazing treatment on a window will determine how well it resists heat loss and stands up to the elements. Plastic glazing is sturdy and affordable, but plastic does not provide adequate protection against temperature changes and may become yellow over time. Tempered, impact resistant glass will not become discolored and can hold up to rain, hail, wind and other natural hazards. Solar resistant tints are available to modulate the effects of the sun on a room's interior.

A well designed, energy efficient skylight can enlarge and illuminate even the most dimly lit room. When choosing an installer, look for a licensed contractor with extensive experience at installing these unique architectural features. Compare estimates from several of the leading providers in your area to find a team of professionals that can give you affordable, aesthetically pleasing results.