Did you know that 15% of your electricity bills result from your home’s lighting power consumption? Luckily, there are some alternative sources of light that can reduce your home’s energy usage.
One way to get more natural light in your home is by installing a Velux skylight.
Assess Your Roof
Before starting any home improvement project, you should first ensure its feasibility.
Not all roofs are the same, and not every roof can support a skylight. For example, the structure of your roof may determine that it is unsafe to install a skylight.
A stick-framed roof is ideal for skylights as it has separate rafters spaced far apart. However, a trussed-framed roof uses triangle structures that cannot safely be cut.
Whether you have a flat or sloped roof will also determine if and how your skylight will be installed.
Decide on a Location and Size
Installing a skylight on roof shingles means that parts of your house will get direct sunlight at certain times of the day. Therefore, you need to consider the areas that will receive light.
Having a glare on the TV from the skylight in the evening or adding light in an unused room may have you regretting or not enjoying your skylight.
The location also matters because you need to maintain the structural integrity of the roof. Some rooms may allow one skylight while other parts of the roof may accommodate several skylights grouped in a row.
Pick a Material and Glaze
A skylight installation includes either a glass or plastic window as well as different materials for the frame, such as wood, vinyl, and metal.
Plastic is a cheaper option, but it is also more easily damaged. The durability of your skylight material should account for its location and year-round weather conditions.
Apply a glaze to your window to block UV rays while still letting natural light in. Glaze also reduces the heat generated from direct sunlight.
Consider Skylight Features
Skylight additions have many options for customization. Choose from the following skylight features:
- Flat or Domed Window
- Window Glaze for Shade and Cooling
- Vented Skylight: Partial or Full Opening
- Blackout Shades for Privacy and On-Demand Shade
Many of these additions can be automated so that you have control of your skylight to make adjustments to shade and airflow. As smart homes are expected to grow exponentially over the next 5 years, adding this feature is worth the investment.
Installation Timeline and Preparation
Skylights typically take anywhere from a few hours to a few days to install. The timeline depends on the type of skylight; the number, location, and size of the skylight; and whether a support shaft is required.
Prepare for construction by moving furniture and choosing a sunny day(s) for completion.
Get Started Installing a Skylight
At Guaranteed Roofing, we have the knowledge and skills to help you find the best skylight for your home. Contact us today for a free estimate.
