The purchase and installation of skylights is a decision that can significantly affect the comfort and aesthetics of a home, business or other commercial interior. After all, they are an additional source of natural light and an architectural element that can improve energy efficiency significantly and add a unique character to interiors.
However, before deciding to purchase and install them, it is worth familiarising yourself with some key aspects that can influence the choice of the right solution for your needs. With this in mind, below we discuss the key issues to consider before deciding to purchase and install skylights - from the types available on the market to their benefits, to installation and maintenance issues.
Skylight installation is an excellent way to bring natural light into interiors, which positively impacts our wellbeing and health. They not only brighten up a space but can also help to reduce electricity consumption, as natural lighting reduces the need for artificial light during the day.
In addition, this solution improves room ventilation, which is particularly important in kitchens, bathrooms or other areas where moisture accumulates. They make interiors more spacious and aesthetically pleasing, making it more pleasant and comfortable to live in. Finally, the new skylight is ideal for those who want to emphasise the modern design of their home while introducing a functional amenity.
As we have already mentioned, skylights are a great way to bring more natural light into interiors, but it is crucial to place them correctly. The choice of where to install a flat roof skylight should depend on the specifics of the room and its lighting needs.
One of the most frequently chosen places for skylights is the kitchen. This is because placing them above it allows you to fill this space with bright, natural light, making it easier to cook and prepare meals. Skylights in the kitchen make the interior feel more spacious and cosy and help reduce energy costs during the day.
Bathrooms are another place where skylights can bring significant benefits. The natural light coming through skylights adds to the freshness and sense of cleanliness in this room. In addition, bright lighting in the bathroom can create a relaxing atmosphere conducive to relaxation. In addition, with skylights, moisture can be managed more effectively, preventing the formation of mould.
Roof skylights undoubtedly have many advantages, but like any solution, even the best one, they also have some disadvantages, which is why they should be mentioned before you decide to install them. The main advantages include:
increasing the natural light in the rooms, which can improve the mood and comfort of the interior,
brightening interiors,
saving on the cost of artificial lighting,
aiding ventilation, which is particularly useful in rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens where moisture can be a problem.
The main disadvantage of skylights is their installation, which can be quite expensive, especially if it requires interference with the roof structure. If they are not properly sealed, leakage problems can appear, leading to damage to the interior. In addition, skylights can contribute to excessive heat build-up in the warm months, which, in turn, can increase air conditioning costs.
The cost of a skylight unit, like many other similar solutions, can vary significantly depending on factors such as size, the material they are made of and the degree of technological advancement (e.g. whether they have an automatic opening function).
Simple models of skylights may cost a few hundred pounds, while the more advanced ones, equipped with additional functions, may even reach several thousand pounds. In addition, to the price of the skylight itself, you usually have to add the cost of installation, which also depends on the complexity of the work and the roof structure.
Choosing the right skylight size depends on several factors, such as the room size, the amount of natural light and the design of the roof. However, a general rule of thumb is that the skylight area should be between 5% and 10% of the room's floor area to provide the optimum amount of daylight.
Smaller ones will work better in smaller rooms such as bathrooms to avoid overwhelming the space, while larger skylights can be installed in large living rooms to bring in more light and create a feeling of spaciousness.
Of course, skylights affect the temperature of the room, introducing extra heat along with natural sunlight. On warmer days, the sun's rays penetrating through them can raise the temperature inside, which is undoubtedly beneficial in the colder months, but in summer may require additional ventilation or sun blinds.
However, modern skylights are designed to minimise the effect of overheating, so in most cases, they maintain a comfortable room temperature all year round.
The installation of a skylight does not require building permission, especially when it involves the modernisation of an existing building - the situation is different, for example, in the case of roof access. However, the rules may vary depending on local regulations and the specifics of the building, especially in the case of historic buildings or in conservation zones.
Therefore, before installing a new skylight, it is advisable to consult with local authorities or an architect to determine whether its installation requires a notification or building permit, to avoid possible legal problems.
Installing a skylight can be done by yourself, but note that it requires the right skills and tools. This is because the installation process involves both cutting a hole in the roof and the subsequent installation of the skylight frame and sealing to prevent leaks.
Therefore, if you are not experienced in this type of work, it is better to outsource this task to professionals. An improperly installed skylight can unfortunately lead to insulation problems, leaks and roof damage, which, in turn, will generate additional repair costs soon.
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