What Are the Different Types of Skylights and Which One Is Right for Your Home?

Skylights are an affordable and easy way to give your home a sense of openness and charm. They are available in a variety of styles, so you can choose the right one to fit your home’s aesthetics and budget.

Skylights also bring numerous practical benefits, such as improved air quality and ventilation (with some styles), reduced energy costs and increased natural lighting.

Regardless of which type or style you choose, it’s important to have your skylights properly installed to ensure your roof isn’t damaged during the process and your home isn’t vulnerable to roof leaks. The skilled roofers at Total Roof Solutions have decades of experience installing a huge variety of skylights and are the go-to skylight installation team in the Atlanta Metro area.

Types of Skylights

Skylights are a great way to bring natural light into a home or building. With so many different types to choose from, there’s sure to be one that fits your needs and aesthetic preferences.

Fixed Skylights

These are the most common type of skylight. They provide a single source of natural light, but don’t provide any ventilation. Fixed skylights are available in a range of shapes and sizes and may be manufactured using a variety of materials, including glass, acrylic or plastic. They are sealed in place with a waterproof sealant and flashing.  

Tubular Skylights

Also known as “solar tubes,” tubular skylights are installed in the roof and feature a reflective tube that captures outside light and channels it into a room. These skylights are a great option for spaces with limited access to natural light. Tubular skylights are also more affordable than traditional skylights and provide a more uniform distribution of light throughout the room.

Vented Skylights

Vented skylights are similar to fixed skylights, but they also feature a window that can be opened to allow natural ventilation. These are a great option for rooms that are prone to excess heat or condensation, such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms.

When opened, vented skylights provide a source of fresh air to the interior of the home, reducing the need for air conditioning and allowing natural light to enter. When closed, they provide insulation against heat and cold and block out rain and noise from outside while still allowing light to enter.

Solar-Powered Skylights

Solar-powered skylights are an environmentally friendly way to bring natural light into your home or business. These skylights are powered by the sun’s energy and use solar panels to collect and convert the sunlight into electricity. This electricity is then used to power the motor which opens and closes the skylight. When the sun is shining, solar-powered skylights will open to allow natural light to fill the room. The solar-powered motor is also designed to close the skylight when the sun sets or when it rains, so you don’t have to worry about leaving it open overnight or letting water in your home.

How to Choose the Right Skylight for Your Atlanta Home

When selecting a skylight for your home, there are a few factors to consider:

• Location: You should choose a location for your skylight where it will bring in the most natural light and be in a place that won't be too hot in the summer or too cold in the winter.

• Size: The size of your skylight should be based on the size of the room you plan to install it in. Generally, the larger the room, the bigger the skylight should be.

• Style: Choose the style that best fits your needs and the aesthetic of your home.

• Material: Skylights are available in a variety of materials. Select a material that is durable, matches your home, fits in your price range and provides the right amount of insulation.

• Cost: Consider your budget when selecting a skylight. Shop around and look for options that have the features you want at a price you can live with. Installation can be pricey depending on the style of the skylight, so be sure to factor that into your decision.

Schedule Your Skylight Installation Today

The expert team at Total Roof Solutions excels in professional skylight installation and repairs as well as various other home renovation projects, including roof replacement, exterior painting and door replacement.

To learn more about our services or schedule an estimate, call us at 678-752-8668 or send us a message.