Let the sunshine in with a skylight
Question: I’m thinking about installing a skylight, but I’ve heard horror stories about how they leak. Is it a bad idea to add a skylight to an existing home?
Answer: Skylights are windows to the sky. They add light in darker areas and brighten up a room like nothing else. At night, they open up the whole room to the moon and stars. They can be installed as single skylights or in “gangs” for a more dramatic look.
Skylights are the most energy-efficient way to bring daylight into a home or building. They let in twice as much light as a vertical window. In addition, the light is more balanced than from vertical windows because it’s typically centered in the room. More and better light means that a building envelope’s glazing square footage can be reduced overall by using skylights in lieu of some windows.
Skylights come with lots of options, including electric venting, manual and fixed skylights. They also come with blinds or shades, tinted or virtually clear. Remote-control options also are available.
Skylights are very energy efficient, with Energy Star approval. They can be mounted on flat or sloped roofs. Optimal sizes are available to fit most rafters or trusses without sacrificing the roof structure.
Installation is the most important part of a skylight project. If done properly, there’s minimal chance of leaking. But when they’re installed improperly, the chance of leaks is probable. Leaks can lead to potential interior roof structure damage.
Skylight installation is not for the average do-it-yourselfer. It should be accomplished by a factory-trained and qualified remodeler.
Do it right the first time
The secret to installation is to start with a clean deck. If it’s a remodel, some roofing material needs to be removed. The next step is to install an ice- and water shield product around the opening to lessen the likelihood of water infiltration. After setting the skylight, the weather-tight flashing around it is installed. This is the long-term solution to keeping water out.
The final step is finishing the interior, which can be done with drywall or wood to match the existing decor. Most manufacturers also offer trim kits, which give a nice finished look.
Whether it’s a beautiful sunny day or star-studded night, there are few enjoyments like looking at the sky from the comfort of home. Skylights are a wonderful improvement to any home. Done right, they will last as long as the roof without any leaks. Just make sure a qualified installer does the job.
Dave Cremeans, owner of Windows and Siding of Indianapolis, is a member of the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis. If you have a remodeling question, e-mail it to indypubswriter@indystar.com.
Source: IndyStar.com
