Nothing is better than natural light and beautiful views while enjoying the comforts of your home. No wonder so many Mantua Township homeowners are looking to have skylights installed. While skylights can bring natural light and ventilation into your living space, there are several factors to consider before making a decision. This guide is for you to understand the essentials of skylight installation, ensuring you make an informed choice for your home.
Key Takeaway
- Ensure your roof can support a skylight by considering its structure, pitch, and existing obstructions.
- Select the appropriate glazing material (acrylic, polycarbonate, or glass) based on insulation, UV protection, and impact resistance needs.
- Optimize natural light while minimizing heat gain and glare by strategically placing your skylight, considering factors like orientation and sunlight exposure.
- Maintain skylights by inspecting for damage, cleaning surfaces, and checking seals and flashing routinely to prevent costly repairs.
- Trust experienced contractors like RGB Construction for safe and successful skylight installation to avoid issues like leaks or structural damage.
Is a Skylight Right for Your Roof?
Although skylights can be installed in many different roofs, there are some situations where a skylight is not possible. Since skylights are installed beneath shingles at the roofline, the roof must be strong enough to support the weight of the skylight. For this, stick-framed roofs are ideal. A stick-framed roof has rafters that are spaced about four feet apart.
The less ideal option is a truss-framed roof, which is often seen in prefabricated homes. Trusses were not designed to be cut after they are installed, which can make installing a skylight risky, as this will impact the structural integrity of the entire roof.
You must also consider the roof pitch and existing obstructions, including vents and chimneys. Consulting with a professional roofing contractor, like RGB Construction, can help determine if a skylight is compatible with your roof structure.
There is More Than Glass Glazing
When selecting a skylight, consider the type of glazing it offers. Different glazing options, such as acrylic, polycarbonate, or glass, offer varying levels of insulation, UV protection, and impact resistance. Understanding the differences between these materials can help you choose the right glazing for your skylight based on your climate and energy efficiency needs.
Here is a glimpse at which each glazing does best:
- Acrylic: Acrylic skylights are lightweight and offer excellent impact resistance, making them ideal for areas prone to hail or falling debris. They provide good insulation and UV protection while allowing ample natural light into your home.
- Polycarbonate: Known for their durability and strength, polycarbonate is suitable for harsh weather conditions. They offer superior impact resistance and UV protection, making them ideal for areas with high sun exposure.
- Glass: Glass skylights offer unmatched clarity and aesthetic appeal, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a sleek and elegant design. They provide excellent UV protection and insulation, allowing natural light to flood your living space while minimizing heat gain or loss.
Glazing Firms or Coverings Regulate Temperate
In addition to the type of glazing material, consider whether you need additional features like glazing films or coverings to regulate temperature and control light transmission. These options can help mitigate issues such as excessive heat gain or loss, glare, and UV exposure, providing a more comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment.
Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are thin, metallic layers applied to the glazing surface to reduce heat transfer. They reflect infrared radiation while allowing visible light to pass through, helping to regulate indoor temperatures and improve energy efficiency.
Tinted or reflective films, another option, can be applied to the glazing surface to reduce glare and UV exposure while enhancing privacy. They come in various shades and colors, allowing you to customize the level of light transmission and aesthetics of your skylight.
Do You Want Light and Air?
Some skylights are more than just a window. Skylights come in various designs, including fixed, vented, and tubular models. Consider whether you want your skylight to provide both light and ventilation or if you prefer a fixed design for daylighting purposes only. Vented skylights offer the added benefit of allowing fresh air into your home, enhancing indoor air quality and ventilation.
Lastly, tubular skylights, also known as sun tunnels or light tubes, are compact and versatile skylight options. They consist of a small dome installed on the roof and a reflective tube that channels sunlight into the interior space. Tubular skylights are ideal for rooms with limited ceiling space or where traditional skylights are not feasible. They provide soft, diffused light and can be installed in areas such as closets, bathrooms, or hallways.
Location, Location, Location
The placement of your skylight is crucial for maximizing its benefits and minimizing potential drawbacks. Consider factors such as orientation, sunlight exposure, and potential glare when determining the ideal location for your skylight. Strategic placement can optimize natural light distribution while minimizing heat gain and glare, enhancing your overall comfort and energy efficiency.
Do Not DIY Skylight Installation
Skylight installation is a complex and potentially hazardous task that should be left to experienced professionals. Improper installation can lead to leaks, structural damage, and other issues that compromise the integrity of your roof and home. Avoid DIY installation and trust qualified roofing contractors, like RGB Construction, to ensure a safe and successful skylight installation.
Regularly Maintain Your Skylights
Once installed, regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity and performance of your skylights. Inspecting for signs of damage, cleaning glazing surfaces, and checking seals and flashing are all part of routine skylight maintenance. Neglecting maintenance can lead to leaks, condensation, and other issues that require costly repairs.
Once in a while, inspect your skylights for signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or condensation buildup. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the integrity of your skylight. You must also keep glazing surfaces clean and free of dirt, debris, and buildup to maintain optimal light transmission and clarity. Use a mild detergent and water solution to clean acrylic or polycarbonate glazing and a non-abrasive glass cleaner for glass glazing.
Contact a Roofing Contractor in Mantua Township, NJ to Get Skylights
Skylights are a beautiful and sought over addition to homes. However, there are some pros and cons that you must consider before making a decision. If you’re considering installing skylights in your home in Mantua Township, NJ, contact a reputable roofing contractor like RGB Construction. Our team of experienced professionals can assess your roof, recommend suitable skylight options, and ensure proper installation for optimal performance and longevity. Give us a call at 856-264-9093 or fill out the online form to receive a free quote for your project today.
