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Skylights must be installed properly or they will never last!.

Finding a reliable, competent, and skilled roofer or remodeling contractor that can do all of the work will take some time but it is by no means impossible. If you understand some of the basic principles by which these people work, the task is not as mystical as it may seem. we are proud of our work. We want it to be perfect or nearly so and we do not want any call-back or warranty problems. To achieve trouble free results we know that high quality materials are an integral part of each project. Real professionals know that problems are public relations nightmares and drain profits.

Let the Sun In
Skylights and roof windows are more reliable and easier to install than ever before.

When homeowners think of a skylight, they see a solution — a way to bring natural light to otherwise dark areas without losing wall space or opening up unattractive views.

But when contractors think of skylights, they see potential problems and callbacks. That's not surprising because access to skylights to make repairs can be difficult, time-consuming, and costly for the contractor, plus disruptive and messy for the homeowner.

This dichotomy hasn't been lost on skylight and roof window manufacturers, who've worked diligently during the past few years to eliminate the problems that plagued some earlier models: leakage, dripping caused by condensation in colder climates, and overheated rooms in warmer areas.

"There are a lot of products where we say they don't make them like they used to, but in the case of skylights and roof windows, that's a good thing," says Craig Plekkenpol, president of Plekkenpol Builders in Bloomington, Minn. "You can now use them with confidence."

Refinements in curb and flashing systems make current models much more weathertight than their predecessors that relied on roofing mastics and sealants. There are specific flashings to go with different types of roofing, from asphalt shingles to shakes to metal roofing to low- and high-profile tile. Flashing components also are specific to different roof pitches. And the flashing systems are easier to put together, making installation simpler and more foolproof.

Meanwhile, skylights and roof windows have caught up with their horizontal cousins in terms of energy efficiency. Most new models offer insulated glazing options with low-E coatings, gas fills, and insulated spacers between glazing layers. These upgrades help minimize dripping problems caused by condensation, manufacturers say.

The more energy-efficient units cut heat loss in cold climates and heat gain in warmer regions. Tinted glazings, also called solar control films, are available to further reduce heat gain, but they diminish the amount of light coming in.

Another way manufacturers are lowering heat gain or loss is by adding a movable shade or a screen to the unit's interior. These are available in a wide array of materials, colors, and finishes, including insulated shades and shades that completely block sunlight. The shades and screens can be opened and closed manually with a pole or electrically with a wall switch or remote control.

In fact, homeowners can now close the entire skylight with the touch of a button. Electric controls allow homeowners to close skylights using a remote control. Some models even have moisture sensors that automatically shut the unit if it starts to rain. (Of course, these upgrades increase the unit's cost.)

Unlike with many other products, homeowners still rely on contractors' advice on whether to install skylights and which brands to use, according to contractors and manufacturers. So it's not too surprising that manufacturers are directing most product improvements and marketing efforts specifically at contractors.

Some companies offer models that can be installed either vertically or horizontally, increasing design options and making installation simpler as well. Velux-America of Greenwood, S.C., for example, puts everything the contractor needs to complete the installation — prefabricated curbs, flashing, cant strips, nails, and clips — in one box.

"Historically, skylights have been a pain in the neck in terms of their effect on the flow of the construction process," says Mark Richardson, president of Case Design/Remodeling in Bethesda, Md. "Typically you install them after the roof has been framed, so you have to stop work to install your skylight," he continues. "And then your roofer has to work around the skylight, which means it could get damaged."

Responding to this concern, Andersen, the window, door, and skylight maker based in Bayport, Minn., now offers a skylight with a separate frame and sash. The frame is installed first, and then the sash goes in once the roof is finished. This skylight doesn't cost any more than comparable models, is easier to handle, and allows the frame to be centered in the opening without going inside the house, according to the manufacturer.

What future improvements are skylight manufacturers working on? They may offer a wider range of standard sizes and more models that can be installed either horizontally or vertically. And to simplify replacing aging skylights, they may provide more custom sizes that will make it possible to upgrade without messing up ceilings.

All these developments, manufacturers say, will aid contractors who are being challenged to provide customers with finished attics, loft areas, and above-garage bonus rooms. "Even consumers with limited budgets are demanding more living space," says Gary Hyman, director of marketing for Velux.

If you have questions about skylights, roof windows, skylight blinds, skylight shades, electric skylight and accessory controls, using natural light in your home, skylight installation, service, or any other skylight related question, please contact Fixaroof. through the "Contact Us" link available on this home page.