Skylight installation can be an excellent way to add natural lighting and beauty to any home. However, during the hot summer months, there is a fear that too much heat will enter your home through the skylights. Fortunately, there are ways you can enjoy your skylight installation while still minimizing the heat factor. In this blog post, we will discuss how to keep your home cool while still enjoying the beauty of your skylights.
Ways to Reduce Heat Gain from Skylights
Skylights are an excellent addition to any home as they provide ample daylight and enhance the aesthetics of a space. However, a drawback of skylights is that they can cause too much heat gain during the summer months, making your home uncomfortable and expensive to cool. Fortunately, there are various ways to minimize the heat gain from skylights without compromising their benefits. Here are some tips to consider:
1. Choose skylight coverings: One of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce heat gain from skylights is by adding coverings. There are several options, including blinds, shades, curtains, and films that can significantly block sunlight. You can choose from different styles, colors, and materials to complement your home’s décor. This will allow you to easily cover and uncover your skylights as it becomes weather appropriate just as you would a standard window.
2. Improve insulation: Start by choosing the right skylight glazing material. Some excellent materials including: double paned, insulated units, and even reflective skylights! The most cost effective solution is a tinted skylight material. Tinted glass reduces the amount of heat that enters your home, thus lowering your cooling costs. Low-E is a great option, but can be on the pricier side. A low-e option will allow an abundance of light into your home while blocking heat since it has a microscopically thin coating that reflects heat back to the outside while letting in daylight. Other options include metallic, mirrored, and solar reflective coatings – all which help to reduce heat gain. Solar reflective coatings also work to eliminate UV light which has been shown to discolor furniture and items inside over time. With our solar reflective coatings you can keep all the light you crave without any of the negative side effects. It is not a simple decision when selecting the proper material. Make sure you properly consult with a professional prior to making any final decisions.
3. Opt for solar-powered venting: Solar-powered venting skylights are an energy-efficient solution that can reduce heat gain from skylights. They work by extracting hot air and moisture from the house while simultaneously drawing fresh air inside. This ventilation process creates a cooling effect that helps regulate the temperature inside your home.
Best Skylight Materials for Reducing Heat Gain
When it comes to choosing skylight materials for your home, it’s essential to consider their ability to reduce heat gain during the summer months. There are various materials available, each with their own pros and cons when it comes to preventing overheating.
1. Glass: Glass is the superior material when it comes to skylights. It can even be laminated to improve durability – even rated for hurricanes! If you are less sensitive to the want and/or need of glass for your skylights there are additional options to consider.
2. Low-E Glass: Low-emissivity or low-e glass is a type of glass that has a thin, transparent coating applied to its surface. This coating helps to reflect infrared light and block harmful UV rays, reducing heat gain and preventing furniture and flooring from fading. Low-e glass can be an excellent choice for skylights in sunny areas.
2. Polycarbonate: is a durable, lightweight, and shatterproof material that is a popular alternative to traditional glass skylights. It’s also highly effective at reducing heat gain due to its excellent insulating properties. Additionally, polycarbonate skylights are more resistant to damage from rain and wind.
3: Acrylic: is another popular alternative to traditional glass skylights. It’s lightweight, durable, and offers high impact resistance, making it an excellent option for areas that experience high winds and hail. Acrylic is also a good insulator, which helps to prevent heat gain during the summer months.
4. Multi-Cell Polycarbonate: Multi-cell polycarbonate skylights are an excellent option for homeowners who want to maximize natural daylight without sacrificing energy efficiency. These skylights have multiple layers of polycarbonate, which helps to insulate the home and prevent heat gain. They also offer superior UV protection, reducing the risk of fading and damage to furniture and flooring.
5. Heat-absorbing tints: Skylights with heat-absorbing tints are designed to reduce heat gain by blocking out a portion of the sun’s rays. These tints can be customized to suit your specific needs and preferences, providing a comfortable and energy-efficient solution for your home.
When choosing energy-efficient skylights, it’s important to work with a professional who can help you find the right products for your needs. Proper installation is also crucial to ensure that your skylights are as energy-efficient as possible. With the right skylight and installation, you can enjoy maximum daylight without the added heat, helping you to save on your energy costs while enhancing your living space.
