Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Are skylights reliable?

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Windows and Doors
Date: 03 Apr 2000
Time: 21:32:13
Remote Name: 207.82.209.51

Comments

As with any component of your new or remodeled home, skylights can be used very successfully when properly installed. Frankly, there is only one skylight I would recommend, and it's Velux ( see http://www.velux.com/ ). I have had extensive experience with the problems you describe, so I understand your concerns. Velux specializes in skylights and roof windows. They were designed originally for the inclement conditions in Scandinavia. Here's my advice:

1) Stay away from inexpensive plastic dome-style skylights. These can crack over time and the difference in thermal expansion between the plastic and metal frames can cause leaking.

2) To prevent or significantly reduce condensation, use double-pane (moderate climates)or triple-pane (cold climates) skylights. Since your skylights will be facing north (I'm assuming you're in North America), they may be subject to heavy rains, wind, and snow. The better skylights are available with argon filling and low-e or tinted glass, which helps to increase the "R" value of the panel.

3) Make sure the skylight is properly flashed. Most leaks are a result of improper installation and flashing. Follow the manufacturer's directions precisely...or make sure your contractor who's doing the installation has intimate familiarity with installing skylights. Depending on the type of roof you have (such as tile, wood shake, asphalt shingles, slate, etc.) will impact the type and style of flashing you use.

4) If it makes you feel any better, we built our home almost 10 years ago. We have a Spanish tile roof -- which is one of the most difficult to properly flash. We installed Velux roof window skylights in our kitchen (3 side by side) -- which also happens to be a North facing side of the house. Like you, we wanted a brighter kitchen given its orientation. We also installed two Velux skylights in our upstairs master bath...one facing north-west, and the other facing south-west. In all cases, the skylights are part of a vaulted ceiling. We have NEVER had a leakage problem so far...and the extra light and ventilation add a whole new dimension to the house.

One regret is not putting in motorized controllers. It's nice to be able to open the skylights for ventilation and if you don't want to be bothered with using a crank, go ahead and buy the motorized controller. Trust me, it's worth it. You can even buy rain sensors that close your skylights at the first hint of rain.

So, go ahead and "see the light." Just make sure the installation is proper.

Builders Websource.

Article Tools

Builders Websource® is a corporate member of ASTM International—a non-profit engineering body dedicated in part to the standardization of building materials specifications, products, systems, and test methods for improved health, safety, and reliability of residential and commercial structures.

Copyright © 1999 - 2018 Builders Websource®, a BUILDERA™ company. All rights reserved.