7 Things to Know Before Installing a Skylight
Who wouldn’t want to increase the natural light in their home? Skylights not only illuminate your living spaces, but they also add a touch of luxury. However, in your home comes with the responsibility of researching and contacting the right building supply company for the job. Here are 7 things you should know before installing a skylight.
1. Flat vs. Domed
No one wants to have the view of their skylight blocked. This is why many homeowners appreciate domed skylights because leaves and other outdoor debris slide right off. However, if you wish to install a dome skylight, you will be limited to using plastic skylight material.
2. Skylight Placement
Where you has a big impact on how much solar heat is let into your home and the kind of light you can expect. For example, installing your skylight on a north-facing roof will offer a consistent amount of natural light year-round. If you’re interested in energy savings, we recommend installing your skylight so it faces south.
3. Energy Efficiency
To prevent your new skylight from turning your house into a solar oven, it’s important to look into some of the energy efficient skylight options offered by a knowledgeable skylight window supplier. For example, did you know that tinted glass can reduce the amount of heat energy coming through your skylights? The slope and position of your skylight also determines its energy efficiency.
4. Fixed vs. Vented
Do you want to be able to ventilate your home through your ? If so, you will want to ask a knowledgeable building supply products company about their vented skylight options. In general, vented skylights are more vulnerable to leaks but perfect for introducing air circulation to your home. Vented skylights are also more expensive than fixed skylights.
5. Glass vs. Plastic
Skylights glazed with glass are more expensive than their plastic counterparts. However, many homeowners also appreciate not having to worry about scratches. While are able to offer a clear view for years, plastic skylights have the tendency to become discolored over time.
6. Risk of Falling
We do not recommend installing a skylight in your home unless you have experience with similar home improvement projects. However, even if you are an expert DIYer on the weekend, it’s always important to exercise safety precautions when working on ladders. Wear shoes or boots with the proper traction. Also, make sure you use a ladder which is the right type and height for the job.
7. Season for Installation
Summer is well-suited for skylight installation because of its dry weather. However, skylights can be installed year-round. When thinking about skylight installation, it’s important to consider which season will offer you the most benefits.
Since the likelihood of rain is lower during the summer, you probably won’t experience delays with . Since skylight installation in the summer is much more common, most skylight contractors charge their customers less during the winter months due to slow business.
If you are interested in looking through our inventory of skylight products, please feel free to call any of our eight Michigan locations. Eikenhout is an experienced building supply company dedicated to helping homeowners and contractors find the right skylight materials for their projects.