Things To Consider Before Starting A Skylight Installation

John McEvoy
December 28, 2023

Are you thinking about adding more natural light to your home with a skylight? Many homeowners in Ireland love the idea of brightening their spaces with sunlight from above.

But there's a lot to think about before you add a skylight. They're not just windows to the sky; they require careful planning and thought. It can be overwhelming to choose the right one and to worry about how it will affect your home.

Not every roof is ready for a skylight right away. You have to check your roof's structure first to avoid problems like leaks or drafts. To help you, we've put together essential advice based on our experience with Ireland's unique weather.

Further, you'll find tips on choosing the best skylight, placing it wisely, and keeping it in good shape. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the information you need to make a smart decision about installing a skylight, without any doubts.

So, are you ready to fill your rooms with calming, natural light? Let's get started! Your journey to a brighter home is just ahead!

Choosing The Right Skylight For Your Roof

When it comes to choosing the right skylight for your roof, not all roofs are suitable for skylights. Consider the shape and angle of your roof, as well as alternative glazing options beyond traditional glass.

Not All Roofs Are Suitable For Skylights

Some roofs just aren't right for skylights. We need to think about the type and shape of our roof first. Flat roofs or those with a very low slope might not work well because water can pool around the skylight, which could lead to leaks.

Also, if our roof is old or not in good condition, adding a skylight might cause more problems than it solves. We also want to make sure we pick the best spot on the roof for our new skylight. It's all about getting that perfect stream of natural light into our homes without any unwanted glare or heat.

So let's look at where and how we'll place them next!

Consider The Shape And Angle Of Your Roof

Before installing a skylight, it's crucial to assess the shape and angle of your roof. This will determine if your roof is suitable for a skylight installation. Not all roofs are suitable, so consider consulting with a professional to evaluate this aspect.

Additionally, understanding the sun's direction at the installation site can help you gauge how much natural light will flood into your home through the skylight.

It's important to ensure that the shape and angle of your roof allow for feasible skylight placement without compromising its effectiveness. Proper assessment of these factors will contribute to maximising the benefits of natural light while avoiding potential issues related to installation or functionality.

Glass Isn't The Only Option For Glazing

When choosing a glazing option for your skylight, it’s essential to explore alternatives beyond traditional glass. For instance, protective glazing films provide an effective way to control light and heat while also offering additional protection for your skylight.

Furthermore, these films can enhance energy efficiency and reduce glare, making them a practical choice for homeowners seeking versatility in their skylight installation.

Additionally, consider that protective glazing films are not just about regulating light; they also offer an added layer of security against potential damage from external elements. This feature not only prolongs the longevity of your skylight but also ensures it remains leak-free and functional for a longer period of time.

Placement And Features Of Skylights

When it comes to choosing the right location for your skylights, consider the direction of natural light and airflow in your home. Additionally, think about whether you'll need blackout blinds or protective glazing films to control glare and temperature.

Location Matters For Light And Air Flow

When deciding on the location of your skylight, it's important to consider the sun's direction at the installation site. This can impact the amount of natural light that floods into your room as well as how sunlight moves throughout the day.

Additionally, keep in mind that proper placement can also affect air flow and ventilation within your home, helping to create a comfortable and airy living space.

While considering skylight placement on different roof types, it is vital to maximise natural light while ensuring optimal air circulation. Proper placement not only brightens up your interiors but also enhances the overall airflow in your home.

Consider Blackout Shades Or Protective Glazing Films

When thinking about the placement and features of skylights, it's important to consider options for managing light and heat. Here are some things to think about when considering blackout shades or protective glazing films:

  1. Blackout Shades: Install blackout shades if you want the option to block out light completely, such as in a bedroom or media room.
  2. Protective Glazing Films: These films can help regulate light and heat, protecting your furniture from UV damage while still allowing natural light to come through.
  3. Heat-Regulating Films: Some glazing films can also help regulate the temperature by reducing heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter.
  4. Customisable Options: Explore customisable options for these features that best suit your specific needs and preferences.

Hiring A Professional Installer

Proper installation is crucial for a leak-free skylight, so it's important to choose a reputable and experienced contractor. A professional installer will ensure the skylight is securely and properly installed, providing you with peace of mind and a beautiful addition to your home.

Proper Installation Is Crucial For A Leak-Free Skylight

Choosing the right professional for skylight installation is vital. It's essential to hire an experienced contractor with a proven track record of leak-free installations. Proper installation ensures that your skylight stays watertight and durable, providing you with long-term natural light enjoyment in your home.

Always consider the longevity and quality of the installation when choosing a professional, as this will impact the lifespan of your skylight. So, it's also important to consult fitting manuals if you decide to install them yourself, but remember that installing skylights requires unique skills and specific tools best handled by professionals.

Choose A Reputable And Experienced Contractor

Selecting a reliable and skilled contractor is vital for a leak-free and durable skylight installation. To start, before choosing, review the contractor's experience in installing skylights to ensure proper fitting and avoid potential leaks.

Moreover, their expertise also guarantees compliance with building regulations, assuring the safety of your home. Additionally, seek referrals from previous customers or check online reviews to ensure quality service.

For top-notch expertise and guaranteed satisfaction, consider HP Roofing for your skylight installation. With their proven track record and professional standards, HP Roofing is the go-to choice for a hassle-free and high-quality installation experience.

Maintenance And Upkeep Of Skylights

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your skylights in good condition. Upgrades such as protective glazing films or blackout shades can also help control light and temperature levels.

Regular Cleaning And Maintenance Are Important

Skylights require regular cleaning and maintenance to remain in optimal condition. Initially, we should clean the glass or other glazing surfaces at least twice a year, removing any accumulated dirt, leaves, or debris.

Then, during cleaning, it's also important to check for any signs of leaks, cracks, or damage to ensure our skylight stays leak-free and effective in brightening our home.

Moreover, proper care and maintenance not only extend the lifespan of our skylight but also prevent issues like leaks and glare. Consequently, by adhering to these simple steps, we can enjoy our bright, sunny spaces without any concerns about our skylight's condition.

Upgrades And Options For Controlling Light And Temperature

When upgrading skylights, we need to consider options for controlling light and temperature. Here are some choices to enhance your Skylight experience:

  1. Consider installing blinds or shades to control the amount of light entering the room. This can help reduce glare and regulate the temperature.
  2. Explore the option of using glazing films or covers with UV protection to manage heat gain and prevent the fading of interior furnishings due to sun exposure.
  3. Think about incorporating remote-controlled electric venting skylights that allow you to open and close them as needed, promoting air circulation and temperature control.
  4. Invest in skylights with built-in sensors and timers that automatically adjust based on changing light and temperature conditions, providing a more energy-efficient solution.
  5. Look into dynamic glazing technology that can electronically tint the glass to control glare and heat, offering versatility in managing natural light throughout the day.

Final Words!

So, what we concluded is that, before starting a skylight installation, consider your roof type and condition. various types of window glass beyond glass for more control over light. Hiring an experienced installer ensures a proper and leak-free installation.

Assess the impact of natural light direction and placement in your home. Remember that skylight installation requires precise skills and tools best handled by professionals. Take action to maximise the practical tips discussed for efficient skylight installation in your home!

Contact us today!

HP Roofing is a team of residential & commercial roofing contractors and solar panel installation experts in Dublin. We offer a wide range of services, from roof repairs and replacements to solar PV installations and maintenance, with quality beyond expectations.
Call HP Roofing 01 453 3366

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I think about before installing a skylight?

Before starting a roof skylight installation, consider the type of skylights that fit your home, assess your roof structure to make sure it can support a skylight, and plan for natural light without too much glare.

Can I add a skylight to any type of roof?

Skylights can be added to different roofs, whether they're flat or have a low slope. But you need professional help to choose the right design and ensure weatherproofing is done well.

How do professionals put in skylights?

Professional skylight installation involves checking the roof structure, picking the best place for the skylight to go, using good roofing materials, and making sure everything is sealed so there's no leaking.

Will a new skylight cost me a lot?

The cost of putting in a new skylight varies based on its features, like size or style, but getting an estimation will help prepare you for how much it might set you back as part of your home improvement project.

Are there ways to stop my room from being too bright because of my new skylights?

To prevent skylight glare inside your home, pick a spot that doesn't let in too much sun at certain times, or use shades and special glass that reduces brightness while still adding natural light.

How does a skylight installation impact my home's energy efficiency?

Installing a skylight can affect your home's heating and cooling dynamics. Understand how it influences insulation and energy costs to make an informed decision.

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*FYI, parts of this blog post were drafted by artificial technlogy. But rest assured, it's been thoroughly researched, edited, reviewed and me & my team.
Founder @ HPRoofing

The founder of HP Roofing, with years of industry experience, providing top-notch roofing and solar panel services for residential and commercial properties in Dublin, delivering high-quality and customised solutions that combine both aesthetic appeal and durable functionality.