Skylights can be a great addition to metal roofs. While it’s easier to install a skylight during the construction of a new roof, they can also be added to an existing one. There are multiple types of skylights. Let’s explore each one by one.

Types of Skylights for Metal Roofs: Pros and Cons

1. Fixed Skylights

Description:
Fixed type skylights for metal roof are stationary, non-operable skylights that allow natural light to flow into a space, acting like permanent windows on the roof. We offer fixed skylights like the RS24 (for standing seam roofs) and the RS36 (for R-panel roofs), specifically designed for metal roofs.

Pros:

• Provides abundant natural light.
• Minimal maintenance due to their fixed nature.
• Helps with passive solar heating, especially in winter.
• Weather-resistant and durable materials.

Cons:

• No ventilation options (can’t open for airflow).
• Limited flexibility in controlling indoor temperature.

2. Ventilated Skylights

Description:
Ventilated skylights can be opened to allow fresh air into a space, providing both natural light and airflow. These type of skylights can be manually operated or have solar-powered mechanisms on metal roofs that open and close automatically based on temperature.

Pros:

• Provides both natural light and ventilation.
• Improves indoor air quality and helps regulate temperature.
• Curb-mounted options reduce the likelihood of leaks.
• Larger fenestration area for more daylight.

Cons:

• More complex to install than fixed skylights.
• May require additional maintenance to ensure smooth operation.
• Higher installation cost than fixed skylights.

3. Tubular Skylights

Description:
Tubular skylights are types of compact skylights that capture sunlight through a small rooftop dome and direct it down through reflective tubes on metal roof. They are ideal for spaces like hallways or closets where larger skylights are impractical.

Pros:

• Perfect for small spaces where traditional skylights don’t fit.
• Energy-efficient, reducing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
• Leak-proof design due to snug fit with the roof contour.
• 24-hour illumination because some models come with solar-powered night lights.

Cons:

• Limited to smaller spaces.
• Doesn’t provide ventilation options.

4. Light Transmitting Panels (LTPs)

Description:
LTPs are type of skylights that are made from translucent materials and are customized to match the layout and design of metal roofs. They are commonly used in pre-engineered metal buildings to provide natural light.

Pros:

• Low-cost and convenient option.
• Easy to install due to minimal training.
• Provides ample natural light.

Cons:

• Difficult to replace if damaged.
• Pose a fall risk because they resemble roof panels.
• Accumulate dirt quickly and tend to fade over time.

5. Curb-Mounted Skylights

Description:
Curb-mounted skylights are installed on a raised curb structure, which elevates them above the roof surface. This design makes them highly effective at preventing leaks and allows for easier replacement without disturbing the roof structure.

Pros:

• Excellent leak prevention due to the raised curb.
• Easy to replace without disrupting the roof.
• Larger fenestration area for more natural light.
• Safe design, with visible elevation and optional fall-screens.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost due to the curb installation.
• The curb, while long-lasting, adds to the overall expense.

Each skylight type offers unique benefits and considerations ,and makes it important to choose based on your specific lighting, ventilation, and safety needs for your metal roof.

Key Factors for Installing Skylights on Metal Roofs

1. Selecting the Right Skylight Type

Fixed skylights are a great option for areas where additional natural light is needed without requiring ventilation, such as staircases or attics. Ventilated skylights, however, are better suited for spaces like kitchens and bathrooms where air circulation is important to reduce moisture and enhance air quality. Tubular skylights are a space-saving, energy-efficient solution, ideal for small areas like hallways, closets, or other locations where standard skylights may not be practical.

2. Ideal Placement

Skylights facing north provide consistent, indirect lighting all day, making them ideal for areas where you want gentle, natural light without strong glare. East-facing skylights take advantage of the morning sunlight, delivering bright light early in the day without the risk of overheating, which can happen with south- or west-facing skylights. This positioning allows for optimal natural light while helping to regulate indoor temperatures.

3. Compatibility with Roofing Material

Installing your skylight correctly is essential for it to function effectively with a metal roof. Specialized flashing kits designed for metal roofs help form a waterproof seal, protecting against leaks during rain or snow. Selecting durable materials and adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions also minimizes the risk of corrosion or damage, ensuring long-lasting performance of the skylight.

4. Weatherproofing

Flashing kits designed to match the profile of your metal roof are crucial for forming a watertight seal, preventing leaks, and ensuring a proper fit. These kits are specifically made to accommodate the distinct shape of metal roofing, providing protection against elements like wind-driven rain, snow, and ice. When correctly installed, the flashing also helps guard against rust and corrosion around the skylight, enhancing the durability of both the roof and skylight.

5. Structural Support

Prior to installation, it’s crucial to check that your roof can support the weight of the skylight. Evaluate the roof’s structural strength and its capacity to handle the additional load. In certain cases, reinforcing the roof with extra framing or supports might be necessary to safely install the skylight. This precaution helps avoid future problems and ensures that the skylight is securely mounted, preserving the roof’s stability over the long term.

6. Professional Installation

It’s advisable to hire experienced roofers who specialize in working with metal roofs and skylights.Correct installation is crucial for both the longevity and performance of your skylight. When installed properly, a skylight becomes more durable and forms a tight seal that prevents water leakage. This careful process helps prevent damage from leaks, such as mold growth or structural problems, and preserves the overall integrity of your roof. By adhering to proper installation techniques, you can benefit from natural light while ensuring the protection and stability of your home.

7. Energy Efficiency

Choosing energy-efficient glazing can greatly enhance the regulation of your home’s temperature. Glass with specialized coatings, like Low-E (low-emissivity) glass, helps to keep heat inside during winter, which lowers heating expenses. In the summer, this type of glazing also reduces excess heat, helping to keep your indoor spaces cooler and minimizing the need for air conditioning. This dual capability not only improves comfort but also promotes energy efficiency and sustainability in your home.

8. Safety Considerations

For increased safety, consider using laminated glass, which is more durable than regular glass. Laminated glass is made up of several layers of glass with a tough interlayer, making it resistant to shattering upon impact. Should it break, the interlayer holds the fragments together, minimizing the risk of injury and improving overall safety. This makes laminated glass an ideal option for locations where both safety and impact resistance are important.

Cost of Skylight Roof Installation

Skylight Cost Based on Size

The size of the skylight affects both material and labor costs, with larger skylights requiring more of each. However, the cost doesn’t increase proportionally with size because there is a significant base cost for professional installation. For instance, the price difference between a 25-inch-by-41-inch skylight and a 25-inch-by-57-inch one is minimal, making the larger option more cost-effective to a certain extent. Typically, skylights are no wider than 25 inches—the standard gap between roof trusses. If your roof has structural rafters, you may be able to install a wider skylight.

The temperature can rise due to larger skylights, which allow more sunlight and heat into a room. Additionally, like any window, skylights can have some minor air leakage, even if well-installed. To reduce energy costs, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends that skylights cover no more than 5% of the room’s square footage in spaces with many windows and no more than 15% in rooms with fewer or no windows.

Skylight Cost by Shape

While size is the main factor in skylight pricing, shape also influences the cost. Most skylights are square or rectangular, but other shapes like circles, triangles, or custom designs are available.

• Circle: Typically smaller, circle skylights range from $400 to $1,000.
• Custom: Rare in homes due to roof truss limitations, custom skylights can cost between $1,200 and $5,000.
• Rectangle: The standard shape, ranging from $150 to $2,000.
• Square: Another common option, also costing between $150 and $2,000.
• Oval: Elongated circles that are decorative and more complex to install, priced between $600 and $2,500.
• Pyramid: Featuring a square or rectangular base that tapers to a point, these skylights cost between $500 and $3,000.
• Dome: A half-sphere design, often seen in modern homes, priced between $250 and $3,000.

Skylight Cost by Type

There are three main types of skylights: fixed, vented, and tubular. Fixed skylights, the simplest and least expensive, are stationary and only provide natural light without ventilation. Vented skylights can be opened either manually or via remote control and may even have rain sensors that automatically close them. These skylights are more expensive, especially if electrical wiring is required.

Tubular skylights, unlike traditional ones, are not installed on the roof. Instead, they resemble pipes that bring sunlight into a room. They are the easiest and cheapest to install because they don’t require cutting large sections of the roof.

Type of Skylight	Cost Range	Average Cost
Fixed	$200–$1,200	$700
Tubular	$200–$500	$350
Vented	$400–$2,000	$1200

Labor Costs for Skylight

Labor costs for skylight installation vary based on the type of skylight, ceiling, and roof. Tubular skylight installation generally starts at around $300, while installing a skylight on a vaulted ceiling is easier, costing between $850 and $1,000. Flat roof installations are more difficult due to additional waterproofing requirements, which can push costs to $1,800 to $2,500.

Other factors, such as location, season, roof design, and project scope, can also impact labor costs. Installing skylights in areas with a higher cost of living, during peak seasons, or on complex roof designs will likely increase the overall price. Additionally, replacing a skylight costs less than installing a new one since less labor is involved.

Recommended Products: VELUX Skylight Flashing Kits

VELUX offers flashing kits specifically designed for metal roofs, like the VELUX C06 kit, which provides a watertight seal. It includes an adhesive underlayment that enhances water protection, ensuring your home stays dry during heavy rainfall.

These kits are versatile, working with roof pitches ranging between 14° to 85°, and are compatible with the deck-mounted C06 models. Additionally, VELUX offers 10-year installation warranties, giving homeowners extra peace of mind. For other roof types like shingle or tile, VELUX offers EDL and EDW kits as well.

Lastly, their 10-year limited warranty covers you for a decade, providing further assurance.

Reliable Skylight Installation for Metal Roofs

Installing skylights on metal roofs is not a DIY task. Even if you have some knowledge, it’s best to avoid doing it yourself. Skylight installation requires specialized skills and years of experience that only professional companies possess. Contact a reputable skylight installer because it would surely enhance your property’s aesthetics and functionality.

Can skylights be installed on a metal roof?

Yes! Skylights can be installed on metal roofs, but it’s essential to have them properly sealed and fitted by a professional to avoid leaks.

Do skylights improve home ventilation?

Yes, certain skylights can open to allow fresh air inside, making them an excellent choice for areas like kitchens or rooms with fireplaces that need extra ventilation.

How can I prevent my skylight from leaking on a metal roof?

Proper installation is critical. Ensure a matching flashing kit is used for your roof type, and regularly check for any damage to maintain a leak-free skylight.

Will a skylight impact my home’s temperature?

Best skylights on metal roofs bring in natural light but can also increase indoor heat. To manage this, look for skylights with built-in shades or tinted glazing because it would help control temperature.

Conclusion

Skylights are a great way to enhance your metal roof because it provides natural light and energy efficiency. Whether you’re installing them on a new roof or retrofitting an existing one, a professional can ensure they are installed correctly. Consider curb-mounted skylights or light-transmitting panels as potential options for your space.

For more information, get in touch with us. Remember, skylights aren’t just windows; they’re pathways to a brighter, more energy-efficient home. With our expert services, you can ensure your roof is well-maintained and safeguarded against the harshest winter conditions. Stay in the loop with expert tips, updates, and exclusive offers! Follow us on Facebook for the latest news, check out our Pinterest for inspiration and ideas, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for helpful tutorials and more. Let’s work together to keep your home protected and your roof in top shape, no matter the season!