Natural light gives the illusion of a larger interior and brightens the mood inside. If you want to improve indoor natural lighting, there’s the option of installing a window replacement with wide glass areas. But to maximize the benefits of improved indoor natural lighting, we recommend choosing a specific type of window called a skylight. 

What Are Skylights?

Skylights are a type of window that’s installed on the roof. Compared to a conventional window, skylights can let in more sunlight. 

What Are the Benefits of Installing Skylights?

Here’s an overview: 

• Improved ambiance – In addition to letting in ample amounts of sunlight, traditional skylights also provide great views of bright blue or dark starry skies. This creates the illusion the sky itself extends into the room, which in turn helps improve a room’s ambiance.
• Energy efficiency – In winter, skylights can help lower heating costs by letting in ample amounts of sunlight.

You shouldn’t worry too much about excessive heat gain if you consulted an exterior and siding contractor. Professional contractors will suggest ways to minimize some of the disadvantages of installing skylights. 

Maximizing Your Investment

To maximize the benefits of a skylight, there are a few things you should take into account. These are: 

• The slope of the skylight – Sunlight can become too much of a good thing. Too much heat gain can increase room temperatures and make it uncomfortably warm inside. One factor that can affect heat gain is the slope of the skylight. In general, the ideal slope for a skylight installation can be calculated by adding  5 to 15 degrees to your area’s geographical latitude.
• Size of the skylight – As a general rule, the size of a skylight shouldn’t be higher than 5% of the floor area in rooms with multiple windows or 15% of the room’s total floor area in rooms with only a few windows.

Shine Construction Inc., a family-run company, offers a wide range of professional exterior services, including window and siding replacement services. To get a free estimate, call us at (508) 278-3300 or fill out this form.