When installing a skylight, take these factors into consideration

Photo of a skylight in a home

Skylights are the perfect way to improve natural light in a room, especially one that cannot be fitted with traditional windows. You need to know a few things before you hire your contractor to cut out a huge hole in your roof. Here are a few things to consider before installing one.

Where on the roof is your skylight needed?

A roof consists of beams and boards that work together to support its outer layers. Skylights should only be installed between rafters to avoid compromising the structural integrity of your roof. The angle and direction of your roof will also affect where your skylight should be installed. Throughout the year, a north-facing skylight receives consistent light. Installing a skylight in the shadow of your leaf-shedding tree will give you direct sunlight in winter and cool shade in summer.

Invest in an energy-efficient model

It’s essential to choose an energy-efficient skylight to reduce your air conditioning and heating costs. Manufacturers today use a variety of coatings to reduce UV rays, and some even add improved insulation to reduce heat loss in the winter. For example, tempered, double-paned glass skylights will have a “Low-E” coating. You can also reduce the heat in your room by adding a movable cover inside or outside your home.

Do you prefer a vented or sealed system?

Vented skylights are a great way to improve airflow in your home, but they are difficult to open and close regularly. Some brands offer solar-powered or hard-wired motors that help you open the skylight more easily, and luxury models will even automatically shut the skylight when it rains! When choosing a vented skylight, select a model made with high-quality materials to avoid seal failure and water leaks in your home.

When it comes to installation, quality matters

Investing in a high-quality skylight can be beneficial now to avoid having to make additional repairs later. If you plan to install a skylight on your roof, make sure you hire a professional who has experience installing skylights. Make sure your roof is inspected before installation so there are no surprises.

At EDCA Roofing, we are proud to work directly with our customers to get them the roof of their dreams. So if you are considering a skylight installation and think it’s also an excellent time to ensure your roof is in good shape, reach out to us. We are here to help you replace your roof before those skylights are installed.