A skylight is a window installed on your roof. It is usually rectangular. Though a large skylight looks great, you shouldn’t install one that’s more than 15% of the square footage of the room below it. Installing a skylight is not a DIY project. It’s best to talk to your window contractor and your roofing company before deciding on a skylight.
Purposes of a Skylight
A skylight is ideal for letting sunlight into the attic or whichever room the skylight is installed. It allows the homeowner to enjoy a view of the sky. Many homeowners who install skylights like to watch the stars on a clear night. As it allows sunlight directly from overhead, it can reduce your dependence on artificial lighting in the room.
Some skylights can be vented to let stale air out and fresh air in. In some areas, a skylight is installed as an additional safety measure in case of severe flooding. Talk to your roofers about safety precautions related to this.
What You Have to Watch Out For
Skylights are a great addition to a home. They may even increase your home’s resale value. However, there are some things you should also watch out for. Skylights come in different materials, including glass, acrylic and polycarbonate. Every material has its advantages. For example, if your area receives plenty of sunlight and experiences extreme heat, it’s best to go with glass. Acrylic is for milder temperatures; neither too hot nor too cold. Polycarbonate is the material of choice in areas that experience many hurricanes.
As a skylight lets in direct sunlight, it’s best to talk to your window and roofing professionals about the direction your skylight should face. Choose the side that doesn’t get hit by direct sunlight to prevent too much heat in the room.
A skylight means there is a large opening in your roofing system. If the skylight doesn’t receive maintenance, it may become a source of leaks. Flashing around the skylight should always be intact and sturdy.
Take into account the kind of debris that hits your roof. For example, if your home is surrounded by many large trees from which branches often fall, a skylight might not be the best idea. At the very least, choose a material that doesn’t shatter easily.
In case you have problems with too much sunlight coming in through your skylight, you can talk to a professional regarding a window film or low-E window glass. You can also pick a skylight that can be shaded.
When Is a Skylight Ideal?
A skylight is a good idea if your home — or at least the side of your home that doesn’t get too much sun — has some shade, or you’re located in an area where the climate is relatively mild. You can use it to allow daylight into an otherwise stuffy and dark portion of your home, such as an attic, a garage or a room you’ve converted into a home office.
Work with us to enjoy a skylight in your home. Howard Roofing & Home Improvements is just a phone call away: (636) 296-1057. We can visit you in St. Louis, MO, for an estimate.