Skylights are not often the homeowner’s first thought when thinking about their roof, but they can be a really great addition to your home if you’re looking to add some natural light into your home. They are certainly worth considering if you are planning new construction or replacing your roof. Read on to learn about the benefits of skylights and how skylights can add value to your home.
There are many different styles and designs of skylights, but the three most common categories of skylights are fixed, vented, and tubular.
Fixed skylights are windows on your roof that do not open or close. They’re great for rooms that need additional light or rooms with no windows. They can also visually expand closed-in spaces, like hallways, stairwells, or small rooms.
Vented skylights are similar to fixed vents, but they can open and close. Some are designed to open manually, while more expensives ones can be opened electronically. Vented skylights allow airflow into a room; it’s a better option for rooms with excess moisture, such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, or kitchens.
Tubular skylights, from the inside, kind of look like recessed lighting. These types of skylights are ideal for very small spaces, like pantries, hallways, or closets.
So why should you consider adding a skylight to your roof? If you live in an area like Vancouver, Portland, or anywhere in the Pacific Northwest, skylights can help bring in that extra bit of sunlight you’re missing during those rainy and cloudy days we have so much of.
Installing your skylight towards a certain direction can also have different benefits. For instance, south-facing skylights help let in more heat during cold winters. East-facing skylights allow more light and heat in the mornings, whereas west-facing skylights allow more light and heat in the late afternoon. And if you’re looking for something more subtle, north-facing skylights allow a pleasant illumination without allowing too much heat in or out.
It may not make that much sense to install a skylight the week before putting your home on the market. But if there are spaces in your home that could use some brightening up, then adding a skylight will definitely add value in the long run. You should also consider the region you live in; hot climate regions probably don’t need extra skylights if you’re looking to keep your home nice and cool. But here in the Pacific Northwest, skylights make a big difference in adding light into the home, especially during the long periods of rain we get.
The team at IBEX Roof are experienced professionals who can help you determine the best place to install a skylight on your roof. We make sure to minimize the impact on your existing roofline, and we can also help you maintain your skylights to reduce the need for repairs. Give us a call today, or fill out our contact form, to learn more about our skylight installation and maintenance services!
