Are you thinking about adding a skylight to your home? Skylights are a great way to let in natural light and can help reduce your energy costs. But before you make the decision to install a skylight, there are a few things you should consider. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the advantages and disadvantages of skylights so you can make an informed decision.
Advantages Of Having A Skylight Installed Into Your Home:
1. Skylights Bring in Natural Light
One of the biggest advantages of skylights is that they bring in natural light. This can help reduce your dependence on artificial lighting, which can save you money on your energy bill. Additionally, natural light can help improve your mood and make your home feel more cheerful.
2. Skylights Can Help Reduce Heat Loss
Another advantage of skylights is that they can help reduce heat loss. In the winter, heat rises to the top of your home and escapes through the roof. By installing a skylight, you can help trap some of that heat inside your home, keeping it warmer and reducing your heating costs.
3. Skylights Can Enhance Your Home’s Curb Appeal
In addition to their practical advantages, skylights can also enhance your home’s curb appeal. A skylight can add an element of interest to your roofline and make your home stand out from the rest on your block. Whether you’re hoping to make your home more appealing to potential buyers or you just want it to look its best, a skylight can be a great option.
4. Skylights are Relatively Easy to Install
Another advantage of skylights is that they’re relatively easy to install. In most cases, you won’t need to make any structural changes to your home in order to install a skylight. This makes them a great option for homeowners who want to add natural light to their home without undertaking a major renovation.
Disadvantages Of Skylights:
1. Skylights Can Leak
One of the biggest disadvantages of skylights is that they can leak. If your skylight isn’t installed properly or if it’s damaged, water can enter your home through the opening. This can cause significant damage to your ceiling and your home’s interior. To avoid this, it’s important to have your skylight installed by a professional and to inspect it regularly for any damage.
2. Skylights Can Cause Glare
Another disadvantage of skylights is that they can cause glare. If the sun is shining directly into your skylight, it can create a bright, blinding glare inside your home. This can make it difficult to see and can even cause headaches. To avoid this, you can install blinds or shades on your skylight to help filter the light.
3. Skylights Can Increase Your Energy Bills
While skylights can help reduce your energy costs in some cases, they can also increase your energy bills in others. In the summer, the sun shining through your skylight can make your home warmer, causing you to use more air conditioning. Additionally, in the winter, heat loss from a skylight can cause your heating costs to increase.
4. Skylights Require Regular Maintenance
Another disadvantage of skylights is that they require regular maintenance. Unlike most windows, skylights are exposed to the elements and can collect dirt, dust, and leaves over time. To keep your skylight in good condition, you’ll need to clean it regularly and have it inspected by a professional every few years.
5. Not Suitable for Every Type of Roof
Finally, skylights are not suitable for every type of roof. If your roof is too steep or if it’s made of a material that can’t support the weight of a skylight, you won’t be able to install one. Before you make the decision to add a skylight to your home, be sure to consult with a professional to see if it’s right for you.
Conclusion:
So, should you install a skylight in your home? That depends on what’s important to you and whether or not you’re willing to take risks. If saving money on energy bills is your top priority, then a skylight might be a good option for you. However, if you’re worried about leaks or glare, you might want to think twice before installing one. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not installing a skylight is worth it for your home.