Are you looking to brighten up your living space and bring the beauty of natural light into your home? Skylights might be the perfect solution. At Showalter Roofing, we understand the transformative power of these architectural features and want to guide you through the process of adding a skylight to your home.
What is a Skylight?
A recent project Showalter Roofing completed for a homeowner was a skylight replacement installation with a new 2x6 frame. A skylight is a window installed on the roof of a building to allow natural light to enter. More than just a window on the roof, skylights are stylish and innovative ways to bring bright, beautiful daylight and fresh air into your home. They can dramatically enhance the ambiance of any room, improve energy efficiency, and even contribute to better indoor air quality.
The Benefits of Skylight Installation
Skylights offer numerous advantages:
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Natural Light: They flood interior spaces with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.
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Energy Efficiency: By reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day, skylights can lower energy consumption and utility costs.
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Improved Ventilation: Certain skylights, like VELUX No Leak Solar Powered "Fresh Air" Skylights, can generate airflow, ideal for venting cooking odors and releasing excess moisture.
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Health Benefits: Natural light has been linked to elevated mood, increased creativity, and reduced anxiety.
How to Fit a Skylight: The Installation Process
While it might be tempting to consider this a DIY project, skylight installation is a complex process best left to professionals. Furthermore, in the process of replacing a skylight or cutting in a new skylight - more problems can unexpectedly crop up. Trained professionals can recognize and understand the condition of your roof, as well as how to fix or warn of future damage.
At Showalter Roofing, our crew of roofing professionals have the experience and knowledge to properly install skylights to prevent leaks and extend their lifespan. Here's an overview of what the installation entails:
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Roof Assessment: The pitch of your roof needs to be measured to determine the suitable type of skylight.
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Placement Planning: The installer must carefully plan where the skylight can be placed without interfering with the roof's structural components.
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Opening Creation: A rough opening is cut from inside the house, followed by careful cutting into the roof.
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Skylight Placement: The skylight is carefully positioned and secured to the roof.
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Sealing and Flashing: Proper sealing and flashing are crucial to prevent water infiltration.
How to Measure a Skylight
Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful skylight installation. Professional installers will measure both the interior ceiling space and the exterior roof area where the skylight will be placed. They'll also consider factors like roof pitch, potential obstructions, and optimal positioning for maximum light exposure.
Skylight Lifespan: How Long Do Skylights Last?
The longevity of a skylight depends on various factors, including quality, installation, and maintenance. On average, a skylight can last between 8 to 15 years. However, with advancements in technology, high-quality skylights like those from VELUX can last up to 20 to 30 years. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can significantly extend a skylight's lifespan.
Skylight Repair: Ensuring Longevity
With the new VELUX skylight and flashing installed, our client is able to enjoy natural light in their home. However, it’s important to note: even the best skylights may require repairs over time. Common issues include leaks, seal failures, or condensation problems. If you notice any issues with your skylight, it's crucial to address them promptly to prevent more extensive damage to your roof and home interior.
At Showalter Roofing, we understand the intricacies of skylight installation and repair. Our team of experienced professionals can handle everything from initial assessment and installation to ongoing maintenance and repairs. We use high-quality materials and follow best practices to ensure your skylight enhances your home for years to come.
Remember, while DIY projects can be rewarding, skylight installation involves working at heights and requires specialized skills to ensure proper integration with your roof structure. Improper installation can lead to leaks, energy inefficiency, and potential structural damage.
For skylight installation, skylight repair, or any other roofing needs, don't hesitate to reach out to Showalter Roofing! Our expertise and dedication to quality workmanship will ensure your skylight brings light and joy to your home for years to come.