By Doris A. Black
Once considered a costly extravagance, skylights are now affordable to most homeowners. Today’s skylights range from simple in design to those that open with retracting shade devices.
A skylight is actually a roof window that can be operable (able to be opened and closed) or fixed (inoperable). Choosing the ideal location for a skylight is more than a matter of preference—your home’s structure must be suitable to accommodate a skylight in the location you desire. You should also consider what type of exposure the skylight will receive. For example, if it is placed on the north side of the house, you may get indirect light. If sunlight is what you’re looking for, positioning the skylight on the east, south or west facing areas of the roof may be preferable. You may want to consider, too, if you want morning sunlight or afternoon sunlight.
Another consideration when selecting location is temperature. Sunlight from a southern or westward facing skylight can increase the room temperature dramatically in the summer. As with any other type of window, the direct sunlight from a skylight can cause fabrics to fade and damage furniture. On the other hand, it’s great for growing plants. Determining your personal needs is the key factor when selecting skylight location.
Operable skylights that allow the transference of air are perfect for cooling upper rooms in the home. As hot air rises, the warmer air currents will naturally flow out the skylight, helping to keep the home cool.
Typically we think of skylights as being square or rectangular in shape, but not all skylights fit this mold. Tubular skylights have a reflective coating that distributes and diffuses sunlight to interior rooms. An optional feature of tubular skylights is a light unit for use after dark. Domed skylights operate in a similar fashion.
Controlling the amount of illumination can be accomplished with either blinds or awnings. Most skylight manufacturers offer one type or the other. Glazings are another method of controlling light and UV radiation. One standard option of skylights is low-E glazing. Low-E glazes reflect long-wave heat rays and allow the passing of short-wave radiation. In other words, low-E glaze will allow winter sunlight to enter the home, bringing in light and heat. The solar energy heats the interior surfaces, creating long-wave heat rays. These are then contained in the room by the low-E glaze, keeping the house warm. Some low-E glazes are tinted and may change interior colors, so choose a clear balanced glaze.
Before installing a skylight, be sure to check the building codes in your community to make sure you’re within the guidelines. If you are remodeling an attic space, fire codes require that at least one window provide an exit and must be 24” x 20” in size and the sill must be less than 44 inches from the floor.
What better way to bring more natural light into the home than with a skylight? Skylights are also a good way to help heat and cool your home. With rising energy costs, doesn’t that sound like a good idea?
