Sunlight can significantly improve any room’s ambiance, and what better way to enjoy natural light than with skylights? Skylights are an excellent way to enhance the look and feel of a room, and it can be an affordable way to bring in more natural light – even into flat roofed areas. While it may seem easy to choose a skylight for a flat roof, there are specific features that you should look for to make sure that you get the best one for your home.
Size and Placement
The first thing that you should consider when selecting a skylight is the size and placement. Skylights come in different shapes and sizes, and you should choose one that matches the size of the room you want to illuminate. If you want to illuminate a relatively small room such as a small bathroom, then a skylight measuring about 14 to 18 inches would be sufficient. On the other hand, a more spacious room like a living or dining room will require a larger skylight that can provide ample illumination.
Placement is also an essential factor to consider as you don’t want to install a skylight in an area of your roof that gets direct sunlight all day long. Ideally, it’s best to install a skylight on the north or south facing section of your roof. This ensures the skylight is getting light for most of the day and not overwhelmed by the sun. Placement will also impact shadows that the skylight may cast into the room resulting in the space not being lit evenly.
Material
When it comes to selecting a skylight for your flat roof, the material is another crucial factor. Generally, there are three types of materials used in skylights: acrylic, glass, and polycarbonate. Glass skylights are a popular choice since they are durable and have excellent UV protection. They are also superior in sound insulation. Acrylic skylights are lightweight and cost-effective. They also have good UV protection and are resistant to weather damage.
Polycarbonate skylights are impact-resistant, durable, and UV rays resistant. They can handle shock impact and provide resistance from debris. Polycarbonate skylights can filter UV rays and reduce the amount of ultraviolet light that enters a room. Most importantly, polycarbonate skylights tend to be the most cost effective. Therefore, the best material to choose will depend on a few factors such as your budget and if any weatherproofing required.
Ease of Installation
Installation is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a skylight. A skylight that requires cutting the roof’s opening will require professional installation, not just a DIY job. On the other hand, some skylights are designed for use in a plane with no surface modification needed, making the installation process more manageable. Certain brands of skylights have flashing kits that are designed to work in multiple types of flat roofs making installation even simpler.
Eco-friendliness
With the growing focus on environmental sustainability, eco-friendliness is an important factor to consider when selecting a skylight. Look for a skylight that can lower your energy bills and improve insulation in your home. Another advantage is having one that allows for natural ventilation. Certain manufacturers design their skylights with UV resistant coatings that filter out most UV light. Other features such halogen-added low emissivity glass and gas fills put energy efficiency at the forefront.
Conclusion
Choosing a skylight for your flat roof is a critical decision that can affect your home’s ambiance, interior lighting, and environmental sustainability. It’s important to consider factors such as size and shape, material, ease of installation, and eco-friendliness when selecting a skylight. It’s best to ask the expert and get their opinion in order to avoid any disasters. With proper research, you are sure to find the right skylight to transform any space in your home. Discover additional information on the subject by visiting this external website we recommend. Read this useful content!
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