What are the common types of skylights for homes?

To help homeowners understand the best type of skylight for their home, start by learning about the main styles and their benefits: fixed units, vented units, and solar vented units. Additionally, skylight installation varies based on each style. So, when looking for a local skylight contractor, it helps to start with some basic knowledge. Fixed Skylights for Homes Fixed skylights are exactly as they sound, units that do not open. Essentially, fixed skylights act as another window in your home. The main benefit of adding a fixed skylight compared to a window is the direction the unit faces. Skylights add sunlight for longer parts of the day than a traditional wall-mounted window. Additionally, skylight installation for these units remains about the same as other types of skylights. Importantly, fixed skylights fit well in areas where you do not want a skylight to open. Similarly, due to their simplistic nature, fixed skylights for homes offer a lower price than units that open. Manually Venting Skylights Improving upon fixed skylights are manually venting skylights. As the name indicates, these types of skylights open by hand. These units not only bring in light and vitamin D to your home, but also aid in ventilation and fresh air. These can be placed anywhere in your home that you have direct access to open them often with an extended crank handle that can be stored away when not in use. In comparison to their solar venting cousins, manually venting skylights for homes are less expensive, but require physical labor to open and close (like a window). Solar Venting Skylights Solar venting skylights for homes are the proverbially Cadillac of skylight options. As a result, these units come with a larger overall skylight installation costs. Further expanding upon skylights that open, solar venting options have a variety of features that reign supreme in direct comparison. For example, gone are the days of using a crank to open these units, solar venting skylights are remote controlled from the floor of your home. Some of these units also have rain sensing technology that automatically close them when excess moisture is present. Similarly, one major benefit of this style are the tax credits that come alongside them.

How do you select the right type of skylight for your home?

As you start vetting the main types of skylights, it is helpful to know how they each fit into your house. As a result, when choosing a skylight, it is important to consider the following factors: size of the room. The skylight should be large enough to provide adequate light, but not so large that it becomes a safety hazard. shape of the roof. The skylight must be compatible with the shape of the roof. climate. The skylight should be able to withstand the climate in your area. budget. Skylights can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

What are the main benefits of skylights?

Skylights offer a tremendous benefit to homeowners. In particular, the increase in natural sunlight and vitamin D help improve your overall mood. From sunlight and fresh air to improved value and savings, some of the main benefits of skylights. Natural light: Skylights let in natural light, which can help to brighten up a room and make it feel more spacious. Natural light has also been shown to have a number of health benefits, such as reducing stress and improving mood. Ventilation: Skylights can also provide ventilation, which can help to improve air quality in your home. This is especially beneficial in rooms that tend to get stuffy, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Energy efficiency: Skylights can help to improve the energy efficiency of your home by letting in natural light during the day. This can help to reduce your reliance on artificial lighting, which can save you money on your energy bills. Increased value: Skylights can also increase the value of your home. A study found that homes with skylights sold for an average of $1,500 more than homes without skylights.

How much do various types of skylights cost?

Simply put, the total cost of skylight installation projects is variable. While typically in the low to mid thousands of dollars, the overall costs relate to the style and options selected. Similar to a car, the base models are straightforward, but if you want additional features, that adds to the cost of the skylight and complexity of the installation. A few factors that go into skylight costs: type of skylight. type of roof. condition of roof. size of the skylight. location of the skylight. materials used. labor costs. permits and inspections.

How do you find a qualified skylight contractor?

Finally, part of finding and installing the right skylight for your home is working with a qualified skylight contractor. Similar to working with qualified roofing contractors, vetting the options relies on word of mouth, reviews and professionalism. A few simple tips for choosing a skylight: Read reviews. Before you buy a skylight, be sure to read reviews from other homeowners. This will help you to get an idea of the pros and cons of different models and skylight contractors in your area. Get professional installation. Skylights can be difficult to install, so it is important to hire a professional. This will ensure that the skylight is installed properly and that it is safe. Looking for professional status symbols like a licensed and insured company helps ensure your skylight contractor has the skillset to work on your home. Finally, it is important to get quotes from several contractors before making a decision about which skylight to install. This will help you to ensure that you are getting the best possible price.

Skylights for Homes: Best Types and Styles

Skylights increase natural light coming into your home and can also create additional ventilation. They’re a convenient way to open up limited areas so smaller rooms appear lighter and airier. Plus, skylights enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal and provide you with scenic views of the outdoors.

There are a variety of different types of skylights, and each one comes with its own purpose and attributes. Likewise, each type of skylight requires specific installation, and finding the right skylight contractor is essential to ensure your skylight fits your home and roof’s structure. The good news is you can install skylights on any type of roof, including metal roofs.

To help you choose the best skylight for your home and how to find the right person to install it, we put together a guide about the various types of skylights available. We’ll walk you through how to choose one, the benefits of a skylight, what it might cost, and answer some frequently asked questions.

In this article:

Common Styles and Types of Skylights for Homes
Choosing the Right Skylight for Your Home
Benefits of Skylights
How Much Does Skylight Installation Cost?
Choosing a Contractor to Install a Skylight
Frequently Asked Questions

Common Styles and Types of Skylights for Homes

Type of Skylight	Features	Benefits
Fixed Skylights	Fixed in place; does not open Lets in natural light Suitable for pitched roofs	Provides ample natural light Low maintenance Leak-free design Ideal for areas without ventilation needs
Vented Skylights	Can be opened for ventilation Available in manual or electric options Remote control available for some models Ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens and bathrooms	Combines natural light with fresh air Helps reduce moisture build-up Enhances indoor air quality
Dome Skylights	Dome-shaped (curved) design Made from acrylic or polycarbonate Reduces glare and offers privacy Efficiently sheds water, snow, and debris	Provides light from multiple angles Adds aesthetic appeal Lower risk of leaks Durable and impact-resistant
Tubular Skylights	Cylindrical design Ideal for small areas Reflective tube to diffuse sunlight Typically used where traditional skylights can’t fit	Maximizes light in small spaces Energy-efficient Fits in compact areas
Solar Vented Skylights	Uses solar panels to help power your home or power the opening and closing of the skylight May include moisture-detecting sensors Remote control available with some models	Energy-efficient and eco-friendly Automatic operation Reduces reliance on electrical power
Flat Roof Skylights	Designed for flat or low-sloped roofs Common in commercial buildings Also suitable for residential homes Typically square or rectangular	Glaze and insulation designed for the thermal characteristics of flat roofs Low profile optimized for flat roofs
Pyramid Skylights	Pyramid-shaped design with multiple panels Designed for large spaces Maximizes light entry	Ideal for large buildings or structures Allows maximum natural light into the space

Several types of skylights exist for your home, though a few stand out as the most common options. As we previously stated, each style of skylight has unique characteristics and benefits. Consider the following:

Fixed Skylights

One of the most common and basic styles of skylights is the fixed skylight. As the name implies, it’s a window that’s fixed in place — it doesn’t open, but it lets in plenty of natural light. This type of skylight is used in areas where additional ventilation is not needed.

The SIG Skylights FMB Deck Mounted Skylight is a fixed skylight that’s suitable for pitched roofs. It features an extra-wide, ribbed flange that provides self-flashing, so it’s leak-free. The frame also includes a drain that removes condensation that may occur due to excessive moisture.

Vented Skylights

Another common style is the vented skylight. Vented skylights are windows that can be opened, which allows fresh air into the room, giving you both natural light and ventilation. These types of skylights are typically used in kitchens, bathrooms, or other areas that need additional airflow — often where excess moisture may accumulate.

Vented skylights can be either electric or manual. An electric skylight features a motor that opens and closes the window, while a manual skylight requires a hand-crank or handle. Some vented skylights can be used with a remote control.

Dome Skylights

As their name suggests, dome skylights are dome-shaped, allowing light to enter the space from multiple angles while also offering greater privacy (as they’re harder to see through the rounded shape compared to flat-paned skylights) and reducing potential glare. The curved design of dome skylights can add aesthetic appeal to a home’s architecture.

Also called skylight domes, bubble skylights, dome rooflights, bubble rooflights, or bubble dome skylights, dome skylights are typically made from lightweight and impact-resistant materials like acrylic or polycarbonate. Their dome shape also helps these skylights shed water, snow, and debris more efficiently, reducing the risk of leaks.

Tubular Skylights

Tubular skylights, similar to dome skylights, are designed for small areas and are sometimes referred to as sun tunnels. This style of skylight is cylindrical, so it can capture and diffuse sunlight through a reflective tube. Tubular skylights are made for areas where traditional skylights can’t fit.

The Natural Light Energy Skylight 10-inch Tubular Skylight is designed to illuminate up to 150 square feet, which is the equivalent of 300 watts of power. This tubular skylight comes with aluminum flashing, a condensation release system, and a 25-year product warranty.

Solar Vented Skylights

Solar-vented skylights use solar panels that can generate enough electricity to either help power your home or operate the opening and closing of the skylight itself. This style may also come with a remote control and be outfitted with sensors that automatically close the window if excess moisture is detected, such as when it rains.

Flat Roof Skylights

Flat roof skylights are designed for flat or low-sloped roofs and are usually seen on commercial buildings. However, they can also be used for homes with flat roofs.

They’re typically square or rectangular and have a lower profile compared to other types of skylights, which makes them easier to integrate with flatter roofing surfaces. They also feature glaze and insulation specifically designed for the thermal characteristics of flat roofs. However, the need to integrate these skylights seamlessly with flat roofing styles means the design options are more limited compared to other types of skylights.

Pyramid Skylights

Pyramid skylights are made for especially large buildings or structures to provide natural light for larger spaces. Pyramid skylights are crafted with multiple panels that form the shape of a pyramid to let in the maximum amount of light possible.

Choosing the Right Skylight for Your Home

To help you choose the right skylight for your home, consider the following factors:

Location: Where you want the skylight to be installed in your home is a major determining factor as to what kind of skylight should be installed. Consider how much light is needed or whether the space needs additional ventilation. For instance, a bathroom or kitchen may benefit from a vented skylight for ventilation, while a fixed skylight may be all that’s needed to provide natural light in your living area or bedroom.
Room Size: The size of the room where you want the skylight matters. The skylight should be large enough to provide adequate light but not so large that it becomes a safety hazard.
Roof Shape: The right skylight for your home must be compatible with the shape of the roof. For instance, a low-sloped or flat roof requires a flat roof skylight, while a pitched roof can feature a variety of skylight styles.
Climate: The proper skylight for your roof should be able to withstand the climate in your area. The style you choose may impact the energy efficiency of your home.
Cost: Consider the cost of the skylight and whether there’s a warranty offered. Skylights can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Design: Consider the aesthetic style and design of your chosen skylight so that it complements the look of your home and the room where it will be installed.
Reviews and Testimonials: Read past customer reviews and testimonials to help find the right skylight and choose a qualified contractor for your roofing needs.

Benefits of Skylights

Skylights offer many benefits to homeowners, especially increasing natural sunlight and providing fresh air, both of which can help improve mood. Other benefits include:

Energy efficiency: Skylights can help improve the energy efficiency of your home by letting in natural light during the day. This can help reduce reliance on artificial lighting, which can save money on your energy bills.The Velux Laminated Fixed Non-Vented Deck Mounted Skylight is an energy-efficient, fixed skylight with laminated, Low-E argon glass. It’s versatile for a number of different roof types and features a pre-finished white interior wood frame. This skylight has a no-leak installation system and comes with a 10-year hail warranty against glass breakage.
Increased home value: Skylights can also increase the value of your home by enhancing curb appeal.
Saves on space: Skylights help add more light and fresh air without taking up more wall or floor space.
Versatility: Skylights come in many styles that are compatible with just about any type of space and roof.

How Much Does Skylight Installation Cost?

The cost of skylight installation varies and may range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. The overall cost depends on multiple factors, such as:

Type of skylight: Basic skylights cost less than those with additional features.
Type of roof: Do you have a flat or steep roof?
Condition of roof: Does your current roof need repairs?
Size of the skylight: Smaller skylights cost less than larger ones.
Location of the skylight: Where you live and the climate you experience could alter the cost.
Materials used: The type of material used impacts the cost.
Labor costs: Installation costs vary depending on the complexity of the job.
Permits and inspections: Cost may increase if permits need to be pulled or inspections scheduled.
Maintenance: The overall maintenance should be factored into the bottom-line cost.

Choosing a Contractor to Install a Skylight

Work with a qualified skylight contractor to help you find and install the right skylight for your home. Consider vetting your options by reading reviews and testimonials, listening to word of mouth, and scoping out professional roofing companies.

Don’t forget to obtain quotes from several contractors before making a decision about which skylight to install to ensure you are getting the best possible price.

Skylights can be difficult to install, so it’s important to hire a professional. This helps ensure the skylight is installed correctly and is safe to use. Look at professional status symbols like proper licenses and insurance, which can tell you your skylight contractor has the appropriate skill set to work on your home.

Ranch Roofing is an experienced roofing contractor with decades of experience in the greater Boston area. Our skylight window installation and replacement experts will help you choose the best type of skylight for your space and roofing system, and we’ll handle the entire process, from estimate to post-installation cleanup. For more information, or to schedule a free skylight estimate, contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common skylights for homes?

The most common skylights are fixed, vented, and solar. Fixed skylights are compatible with various types of roofs, rooms, and spaces. Vented skylights are common in bathrooms and kitchens.

Which skylight is the best at resisting leakage?

A curb-mounted skylight can prevent leaks better than deck-mounted skylights. They’re more flexible and feature a larger glass area.

But some skylights come with extra flashing to seal the roof better to prevent leakage. Check with the manufacturer’s description of the particular skylight you want to purchase.

What is the average lifespan of a skylight?

The average lifespan of a skylight is between 8 and 15 years, but some skylights can last up to 20 or 30 years.

What is a common problem with skylights?

Some common problems with skylights include:

Condensation and fogginess
Leaks and cracks
Glare and excess light
Wear and tear
UV damage
Discoloration
Unwanted drafts
Ice dams

Types of Skylights for Homes: How to Choose the Best Skylight for Your Home & Find a Qualified Installation Professional