What You Need to Know Before Installing a Skylight
Skylights are a wonderful way to bring natural light into your home and allow you to gaze up at the stars at night. However, before you make the jump to installing a skylight, there are a few things you should consider. In this blog post, we will discuss the important factors to consider before installing a skylight. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of whether a skylight is right for your home.
Location
The first thing to consider before installing a skylight is where it will be located. The location of the skylight will determine the amount of light that enters the room and the type of skylight you can install. East-facing skylights will provide bright morning light while west-facing skylights will provide warmer afternoon light. North-facing skylights will produce a constant and cool light while south-facing skylights will provide high levels of light and warmth.
Safety Requirements
Skylight installation requires adherence to strict safety requirements. The wrong installation can cause leaks and create unsafe situations. Therefore, it is always best to hire a professional contractor for installation. You should also ensure your contractor follows the necessary safety procedures to ensure the skylight is properly installed.
Type of Skylight
There are three main types of skylights: fixed, vented, and tubular. Fixed skylights are designed to brighten up a room but can't be opened. Vented skylights, on the other hand, are designed to be opened, which allows for ventilation. Tubular skylights are smaller and funnel light in from a rooftop dome to a room below. It's important to choose the right type of skylight based on your specific needs.
Energy Efficiency
Skylights can be great for providing natural light, but they can also allow heat to escape from the home in the colder months. To address this issue, many skylights are designed with energy-efficient coatings, which can reflect heat back into the house during the colder months, reducing heat loss. Ensure that you get the right energy-efficient skylight for your home, by discussing with your contractor.
Maintenance
Just like any other component of your home, skylights require maintenance to function properly. Dirt, grime, and debris can collect around the skylight, blocking out the light and causing leaks. It's important to inspect your skylight on a regular basis and clean it accordingly.
Conclusion
Before installing a skylight, there are several factors to consider. The location of the skylight, the type of skylight, energy efficiency, and maintenance all play a crucial role in creating a safe and comfortable environment in your home. Always ensure you use a professional to balance the cost, the required time, and to ensure a quality installation that meets all required regulations. With these tips, you'll be on your way to selecting the perfect skylight for your home.