So you might be asking, what makes these guys so excited about skylights? We’re so glad you asked! Read on to find out everything you could possibly want to know about skylights!

Types of Skylights

There are actually a couple different kinds of skylights. One is a ventilating skylights. These are sometimes referred to as roof windows. These types of skylights have the ability to open and close. They’ll often come with a remote control or a hand crank that you’re able to open and/or close them when you’d like to. They are good options for rooms wherein there is a high humidity such as kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms.

The second type of skylight is a fixed skylight. They are just like ventilating skylights but they don’t open and close. Most skylights in commercial buildings will be fixed skylights. Some will consider tubular skylights as a third kind. We consider them a separate beast all on their own – solar tubes.

Placement of Skylights

The placement of a skylight is something that should be considered very carefully and really should be aided by the professional opinion of skylight contractors like ourselves and/or an architect. If you install a skylight in an unsuitable location, it can negatively affect the room’s temperature or bring a harsh glare. Generally speaking, the following skylight placements will have certain expected affects.

South-facing skylights will provide a lot of light but can sometimes overheat a room.

West-facing skylights usually provide the most light and heat in the afternoon when the sun is going down.

North-facing skylights will bring soft light into the room throughout the whole day. This is usually the most ideal solution unless you’re looking for intense sunlight. It’s also the best placement energy-wise as it doesn’t release or absorb a lot of heat.

East-facing skylights provide the most light and heat gain in the morning hours, when it may be coldest.

Moreover, you’ll want to ensure that you have the right tilt or slope on your skylight. According to the US Department of Energy, the ideal slope for a skylight is equal to your latitude plus five to fifteen degrees. If the tilt is off, it can negatively affect your energy savings. This is again why it’s important to consult with reputable skylight contractors prior to making decisions.

Energy Efficiency

We recommend you use skylights that have Energy Star or National Fenestration Rating Council approval. If the skylight has gained this approval there should be a label on it.

The materials used to craft your skylight should also be considered. Skylights come in plastic and glass. Plastic skylights are cheaper but are more likely to get brittle or scratch over time. Plastic also allow more UV rays in the building. Even though glass is more expensive, we believe its more than worth it. It’s a worth investment that makes your skylight more long-lasting and safer.

A skylight’s energy efficiency can also be impacted by its tint or coating. The ideal tint or coating is specific to the application of the skylight and can lower its heat gain and/or loss. Tints are also necessary if bleaching of furniture is a concern.

As always if you have any questions Brooklyn Skylight Guys would be happy to help. Give us a call today so we can help you get started on your skylight project. Improve your building’s energy efficiency and bring some beautiful natural sunlight into your space at the same time. Brighten up your office or home. Naturally!