Skylights have been a popular way to increase natural light in homes for centuries.  Skylights have surged in popularity in recent years thanks to technological advances that increase functionality and convenience.

Skylights can now be equipped with built-in shades that can be controlled from your phone.  A fascination with biophilic design has added to the allure of using skylights as a means of bringing some of the outside into your home. 

What are some of the potential benefits of adding skylights to your existing home?

Natural Sunlight

The biggest benefit of skylights is how they let natural light into your space.  Along with that light comes heat.  Natural light is known to improve mood and help with workplace performance.  People feel more alive and happier in the presence of natural sunlight.  Adding sunlight can make a small room seem larger and change a dark room into a cozy friendly space.  

Utilizing the sun’s heat can help save on heating costs during chilly winter seasons.

Fresh Air

Allowing ventilation of stuffy spaces freshens up the air and cools down living spaces without turning on the air conditioner. New models from Velux Skylights can be opened and closed electronically which lets in fresh air to cool your spaces naturally. When the outside temperature is too hot, simply close the skylight and block out 80% of the heat and 99% of the UV radiation. 

Home Value

You can increase the resale value of your home by adding skylights.  Potential buyers love large bright spaces and will offer to pay more for a home that is bright and well-lit.

Rental properties can also benefit from skylights.  Adding value to an investment property can help maximize your return on investment.  If you’re renting out a property you can secure higher rents and increase the property’s value for when you decide to sell.

Location

When considering installing skylights you need to think about how much direct sunlight a skylight will receive and which rooms require more natural light the most.  Different rooms will benefit from skylights in different ways.  Common rooms like entryways can stand lots of natural light.  Rooms like the bathroom need more ventilation to reduce the chance of mold.

Look at the orientation of your home and remember that West-facing skylights get strong afternoon sun.  East-facing skylights bring in more light in the morning.  North-facing skylights get sun all day all year round.

Size

Bigger is not always better. With the blistering Australian sun, and the orientation of your house, sometimes a smaller skylight will be better.

Installation

Unless you’re an experienced roofer and carpenter, you shouldn’t attempt to install skylights yourself.  When you’re considering which skylights to buy keep in mind the experience and reputation of the manufacturer and installer.

You should only work with a licensed and insured contractor.  You want to work with someone who knows what they are doing and won’t end up doing something that violates your existing roof warranty.

Skylights may look simple but they can be a lot more complicated than you realize.  There is a lot of thought that goes into successfully installing skylights in your home.