Choose new skylight or replace an old one
A new skylight can completely change the feel of a room making it brighter and appear more spacious. New skylights can also save you money on your utility bills.
On warm days, ventilating skylights allow for air circulation by letting the hot air that rises, out. On colder days the sun warms up the space.
Skylights work well in almost any room and can even be installed outdoors on a front or porch. Fixed or venting skylights
A fixed skylight has glass that is fixed in place and does not open or close.
Venting skylights have glass that raises and lowers either manually, or by electric motor or with solar power. Vented skylights bring in fresh air and light and — when opened — allow excess moisture in kitchens and bathrooms to escape.
With new homes, bringing in fresh air is more important due to how tightly the homes are built. Fresh air helps keep the home healthy.
Skylights have become smarter, newer models can be controlled with an intelligent remote to work with the home automation system. In addition, solarpowered and electric skylights have rain sensors which automatically close the skylight at the first sign of rain.
Skylights have been around since the 1900s, but today’s models are guaranteed not to leak.
Today’s skylights are dual-paned and clean, quiet and safe. Water disperses evenly, “sheets off ” and evaporates quickly, greatly reducing water spotting. There are different choices for glass depending on the climate you live in. Don’t forget about style
Skylights can be dressed up with blinds. They come in many colors and patterns.
Blinds are available in light filtering which softens and diffuses light, Venetian style which gives you control over the amount and direction of light, or room darkening if you prefer the room to be totally dark. All blinds improve energy performance.
To add natural beauty, light and fresh air to any home, replace old skylights or introduce new ones.
Keep in mind that not every skylight will work with every home.
Skylights need to be matched with elements like roof pitch. To determine the best placement of skylights when planning an installation, consult a professional contractor.
This article was provided by a member of the Remodelers Council of the Greater Houston Builders Association. The Remodelers Council is dedicated to promoting professionalism and public awareness of the remodeling profession through education, certification and service to the Houston community. To reach the author directly, email dan@innovativeskylights.com. For more information on this article, contact Lorraine Hart at lorraine@idealconsulting.net. To join the council or to find a professional remodeler in your area, visit www.ghba.org.