The Impact of Skylights on Roofing: Pros, Cons, and Installation Tips

By bringing in natural light from above, skylights create a more open, inviting environment. But cutting holes in your roof also comes with some downsides. Deangelo Roofing in Los Angeles CA knows that skylights can make a big difference in any home or building. Here we’ll look at the pros and cons of skylights, and provide tips for proper installation.

Pros of Adding Skylights

There are many benefits to installing skylights in your roof:

• More Natural Light – Skylights flood an interior space with natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. This creates a brighter, more uplifting environment.
• Energy Savings – With sufficient daylight coming in, you’ll rely less on lights, heating and cooling systems. This saves energy and lowering utility bills.
• Ventilation – Many skylights can open to let in fresh outdoor air. This passive ventilation circulates air without fans or HVAC systems.
• Extra Space – Skylights don’t take up interior floor space like windows. And the open ceiling effect makes rooms feel larger.
• Aesthetic Appeal – Skylights instantly make any space more modern, visually interesting and appealing.

Potential Downsides of Skylights

However, skylights also come with some possible drawbacks:

• Leaking Risk – Cutting holes in the roof leaves more potential entry points for water leakage compared to a solid roof. Proper installation is key to prevent leaks.
• Glare – Excessively bright daylight shining down through skylights can cause uncomfortable glare. Tinting and shading devices can help control glare.
• Fading – Sunlight entering through skylights may accelerate fading or discoloration of furnishings, flooring or artwork over time. Window treatments can mitigate this effect.
• Heat Gain – Lots of direct sunlight entering in hot climates can overheat a space in summer. Energy-efficient glazing and shading helps reduce unwanted solar heat gain.
• Condensation – Temperature differences between indoor and outdoor air hitting the glass can lead to interior condensation under the right conditions. Proper moisture control is important.
• Difficult Installation – Cutting into the roof, framing the skylights and flashing takes skill. Hiring professional roofers is recommended.

Key Steps for Proper Skylight Installation

If you do opt to install skylights, proper installation is critical to avoid roof leaks, damage or other issues down the road. Here are 8 key steps professional roofers take:

1. Choose the right skylight type and units for your climate, roof design and interior space. Get the required building permits.
2. Determine the size, number and layout of skylights for optimal daylighting. Account for roof joists, HVAC systems and other obstructions overhead.
3. Prepare the roof opening by removing shingles/roofing to expose the framing underneath. Cut into the sheathing to create the rough opening.
4. Add roof jacks, headers or other framing reinforcements to support the skylight weight.
5. Install moisture barriers and flashing around the rough opening to prevent leaks.
6. Mount the skylight into the roof opening, securing it to the frame according to manufacturer instructions.
7. Connect any wiring for motors, sensors or HVAC integration if the unit is automated.

An experienced roofer knows the nuances of installing skylights properly to keep your roof watertight. Don’t cut corners – it’s worth investing in professional skylight installation.

Key Considerations for Your Skylight Project

There are a few final things to keep in mind as you explore adding skylights:

• Consider solar or blackout blinds to control light as needed. Remote controlled units are convenient.
• Plan where furniture, shelves and light fixtures will go to maximize skylight ambiance.
• Look for ENERGY STAR models for better insulation, argon gas glazing and high solar heat gain coefficient ratings.
• Check if local utilities offer rebates on efficient skylights – savings can be substantial.
• For a roof with multiple skylights, use the same brand and model for visual consistency.

Bringing natural light in through your roof can completely transform an indoor space. With smart design choices and proper installation, skylights are an investment that really pays off. Just be sure to consider both advantages and disadvantages before making your decision.