Types of Skylights: Fixed, Vented, and Tubular

Skylights transform interior spaces by bringing natural light into areas that windows can't reach. For Lake County homeowners, skylights offer practical benefits beyond aesthetics, including reduced electricity costs and improved ventilation. However, choosing the right skylight type requires understanding the differences between fixed, vented, and tubular options. This guide helps you select the skylight that best fits your needs and your Florida home.

Fixed Skylights: The Classic Choice

Fixed skylights are stationary windows installed in your roof that don't open.

How Fixed Skylights Work

• Sealed unit: Permanently closed, no moving parts
• Mounted in roof: Installed through roof decking with proper flashing
• Light only: Provides illumination without ventilation
• Various sizes: From small accent windows to large statement pieces

Advantages of Fixed Skylights

• Cost effective: Least expensive skylight option
• Simplest installation: No mechanical components to set up
• Maximum reliability: No moving parts to fail
• Excellent sealing: Fewer potential leak points
• Energy efficient: No gaps for air infiltration
• Low maintenance: No mechanisms to service
• Large size options: Available in bigger dimensions than vented units

Disadvantages of Fixed Skylights

• No ventilation: Can't exhaust hot air or bring in fresh air
• Heat buildup concern: In Florida's climate, trapped heat can be an issue
• No natural cooling: Can't contribute to passive ventilation
• Limited functionality: Only provides light

Best Applications for Fixed Skylights

• Hallways and stairwells: Where ventilation isn't needed
• Living rooms: Accent lighting without opening requirements
• Walk-in closets: Illumination for enclosed spaces
• Art galleries or display areas: Controlled natural light
• Vaulted ceilings: High installations where operation would be impractical
• Budget-conscious projects: Maximum light for minimum cost

Fixed Skylight Costs

• Budget models: $150 - $400
• Quality models (VELUX, etc.): $300 - $800
• Large or custom: $800 - $2,000+
• Installation: $500 - $1,500 additional

Vented (Opening) Skylights: Light Plus Airflow

Vented skylights can be opened to allow air circulation.

Types of Vented Skylights

Manual vented skylights:

• Opened by hand using a crank, rod, or handle
• Best for skylights within arm's reach
• No electricity required
• Lower cost than motorized options

Electric vented skylights:

• Operated by wall switch or remote control
• Ideal for hard-to-reach installations
• Can be wired to home automation systems
• More convenient but higher cost

Solar-powered vented skylights:

• Powered by integrated solar panel
• No electrical wiring needed
• Qualifies for energy tax credits
• Self-sufficient operation

Advantages of Vented Skylights

• Natural ventilation: Exhausts hot air that rises to ceiling
• Fresh air: Brings outdoor air into interior spaces
• Reduced HVAC load: Natural cooling lowers AC demands
• Moisture control: Helps vent humidity in bathrooms and kitchens
• Stack effect cooling: Hot air exits, drawing cooler air in below
• Flexible operation: Open when needed, close when not

Disadvantages of Vented Skylights

• Higher cost: Mechanical components add expense
• More maintenance: Moving parts require service
• Potential leak points: Seals around opening mechanisms
• Rain sensor needed: To close automatically in storms
• Motor failure risk: Electric units can have mechanical issues
• Size limitations: Generally smaller than fixed skylights

Best Applications for Vented Skylights

• Bathrooms: Exhaust steam and humidity
• Kitchens: Vent cooking heat and odors
• Master bedrooms: Natural cooling and fresh air
• Upper floor rooms: Where heat accumulates
• Rooms without exterior walls: Where windows aren't possible
• Energy-conscious homes: To reduce cooling costs

Vented Skylight Costs

• Manual vented: $300 - $800
• Electric vented: $600 - $1,500
• Solar-powered vented: $800 - $2,000
• Installation: $700 - $2,000 additional
• Electrical wiring (if needed): $200 - $500

Florida Considerations for Vented Skylights

• Rain sensors essential: Florida's sudden storms require automatic closing
• Hurricane shutters: Consider protection options for storm season
• Screen option: Keep bugs out when open (mosquitoes!)
• UV exposure: Florida sun is intense; quality glazing matters

Tubular Skylights: Light for Small Spaces

Tubular skylights (also called sun tunnels or light tubes) capture light through a small dome and channel it through a reflective tube.

How Tubular Skylights Work

1. Dome on roof: Acrylic or glass dome captures daylight
2. Reflective tube: Highly polished tube channels light
3. Diffuser: Ceiling fixture spreads light into room
4. Minimal footprint: Fits between rafters without major roof modifications

Types of Tubular Skylights

Rigid tubes:

• Straight, polished aluminum tubes
• Most efficient light transmission
• Best for direct roof-to-ceiling installations
• 10-inch and 14-inch diameters are common

Flexible tubes:

• Can bend around obstacles
• Works for longer or angled runs
• Slightly less efficient than rigid
• Good for retrofit installations

Advantages of Tubular Skylights

• Minimal roof penetration: Small opening reduces leak risk
• No structural changes: Fits between standard rafter spacing
• Lower cost: Less expensive than traditional skylights
• Easier installation: Often a half-day project
• Attic flexibility: Can route around obstacles
• Natural daylight: Not electric light; true sunlight quality
• Energy savings: Reduces daytime lighting electricity
• Versatile placement: Works where skylights can't

Disadvantages of Tubular Skylights

• Limited light: Less bright than traditional skylights
• No view: You can't see the sky
• No ventilation: Light only, no airflow
• Length limitations: Longer runs reduce light transmission
• Size constraints: Fixed small sizes
• Minimal design impact: Less dramatic than skylights

Best Applications for Tubular Skylights

• Bathrooms without windows: Natural light for small spaces
• Closets: Illuminate without electricity
• Hallways: Brighten interior corridors
• Laundry rooms: Natural light for task areas
• Kitchens: Supplement existing lighting
• Homes with complex attics: Route around HVAC and framing
• Budget projects: Affordable natural light solution

Tubular Skylight Costs

• 10-inch diameter: $200 - $400
• 14-inch diameter: $300 - $600
• Premium models: $500 - $900
• Installation: $300 - $700
• Complete installed cost: $500 - $1,500 typical

Comparing Skylight Types

Light Output Comparison

| Type | Typical Size | Light Output | Coverage Area |

|------|--------------|--------------|---------------|

| Fixed | 2x4 feet | Very High | 200-400 sq ft |

| Vented | 2x3 feet | High | 150-300 sq ft |

| Tubular 10" | 10" diameter | Moderate | 100-200 sq ft |

| Tubular 14" | 14" diameter | Moderate-High | 200-300 sq ft |

Cost Comparison (Including Installation)

| Type | Total Installed Cost |

|------|---------------------|

| Fixed | $800 - $2,500 |

| Vented Manual | $1,000 - $2,800 |

| Vented Electric | $1,300 - $3,500 |

| Vented Solar | $1,600 - $4,000 |

| Tubular | $500 - $1,500 |

Feature Comparison

| Feature | Fixed | Vented | Tubular |

|---------|-------|--------|---------|

| Ventilation | No | Yes | No |

| Sky View | Yes | Yes | No |

| Large Sizes | Yes | Limited | No |

| Easy Install | Moderate | Complex | Easy |

| Leak Risk | Low | Moderate | Very Low |

| Energy Savings | Good | Excellent | Good |

Glazing Options for All Skylight Types

The glass or acrylic in your skylight affects performance significantly.

Glass vs. Acrylic

Tempered glass:

• More scratch-resistant
• Better clarity over time
• Heavier and more fragile
• Required for walkable skylights

Acrylic:

• Lighter weight
• More impact-resistant
• Can yellow over time
• Lower cost

Low-E Coating

Low-emissivity coating is essential in Florida:

• Reflects heat while transmitting light
• Reduces solar heat gain by 25-50%
• Available on both glass and acrylic
• Worth the extra cost in our climate

Tinting and Solar Control

Options for managing Florida's intense sun:

• Bronze or gray tint: Reduces glare and heat
• Reflective coating: Blocks solar radiation
• Dynamic glass: Electronically tints (premium option)
• Blinds or shades: Interior or between-glass options

Florida Glazing Recommendations

For Lake County skylights, prioritize:

• Low-E coating (essential)
• Double-pane (minimum) or triple-pane
• Impact-rated for hurricane zones
• Light tint or reflective for south-facing installations

Florida-Specific Considerations

Our climate creates unique skylight requirements.

Heat Management

Florida's intense sun requires planning:

• Orientation matters: North-facing skylights get less direct sun
• Overhangs help: Roof features that shade skylights reduce heat
• Quality glazing essential: Low-E and tinting reduce heat gain
• Vented skylights advantage: Can exhaust accumulated heat

Hurricane Resistance

Storm protection is critical:

• Impact-rated skylights: Meet Florida building codes for wind zones
• Laminated glass: Stays intact when broken
• Reinforced frames: Withstand high wind loads
• Proper flashing: Survives wind-driven rain
• Exterior shutters: Can be added for extra protection

Moisture and Sealing

Florida's humidity and rainfall challenge installations:

• Quality flashing systems: Prevent water intrusion
• Proper slope: Minimum 15-degree roof pitch recommended
• Condensation management: Interior condensation can occur
• Regular inspection: Annual checks for seal integrity

Building Codes

Lake County skylight installations must meet:

• Florida Building Code requirements
• Wind load ratings for your zone
• Energy code compliance
• Permit requirements (most installations need permits)

Choosing the Right Skylight for Your Needs

Use this decision guide to narrow your options.

Choose Fixed Skylights If:

• Budget is a primary concern
• Maximum light output is the goal
• The space doesn't need ventilation
• The installation location is very high
• You want minimum maintenance

Choose Vented Skylights If:

• Natural ventilation is desired
• The room tends to get hot or stuffy
• You want to reduce air conditioning usage
• The bathroom or kitchen lacks adequate ventilation
• You value fresh air circulation

Choose Tubular Skylights If:

• Space or budget is limited
• The installation path is complicated
• You need light for a small room
• Minimal roof penetration is preferred
• A quick, simple installation is desired

Installation Considerations

Proper installation is crucial for all skylight types.

Roof Factors

• Pitch: Steeper roofs are easier; flat roofs need special considerations
• Material: Shingle, tile, and metal each require different flashing approaches
• Condition: Address any roof problems before skylight installation
• Framing: May need to modify rafters for larger skylights

Interior Factors

• Light shaft: Distance from roof to ceiling affects installation complexity
• Attic obstacles: HVAC, wiring, and plumbing may need rerouting
• Ceiling type: Vaulted ceilings are simpler than flat ceilings with attic space
• Finish work: Drywall and painting around new skylight

Professional vs. DIY

We strongly recommend professional installation for:

• All fixed and vented skylights (roof penetration is significant)
• Tubular skylights in complex installations
• Any work in hurricane zones (code compliance is critical)

Experienced DIYers may tackle simple tubular installations, but the cost savings rarely justify the risk of improper installation.

Making Your Decision

Consider these final questions:

1. What's the primary goal? Maximum light, ventilation, or budget value?
2. Where will it be installed? Room type and ceiling height matter.
3. What's your budget? Include installation and any electrical work.
4. How accessible is the location? Affects both installation and operation.
5. What's your roof type? Some skylights work better with certain roofing.

At Pro Specialty Services, we install all types of skylights throughout Lake County. Our team can help you evaluate your options, recommend the best solution for your situation, and ensure proper installation that will perform beautifully for years. Contact us for a free consultation and estimate.