If you want to bring more natural light into your home, two popular options available are skylights and sun tunnels. Both offer the benefits of increased daylight and energy efficiency, but they have distinct differences that make them suitable for different situations.
Read on as we compare skylights and sun tunnels to help you make a decision about which is best for you.
Brighten up your space with skylights
Skylights are windows installed on the roof of your home that allow natural light to filter into your living spaces. They are a popular choice for homeowners looking to brighten up rooms like bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens.
Let’s have a look at some of the key advantages of skylights:
1. Ample natural light
Skylights are a great way to let in a lot of natural light. This makes indoor areas brighter and more welcoming and they can make a room feel bigger and more connected to the outdoors.
2. Ventilation options
Many skylights come with built-in ventilation features, allowing you to improve airflow in your home, which can be especially helpful in bathrooms and kitchens.
3. Aesthetic appeal
Skylights create a point of architectural interest, drawing the focus upwards and making spaces feel larger and more open.
Natural light from skylights highlights the interior decor and colour schemes too, making them more vibrant and appealing.
4. Energy efficiency
Energy-efficient skylights can help lower your energy bills. They improve insulation, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, which means you use less heating and air conditioning.
They also let in a lot of natural light during the day, reducing the need for electric lights, which is better for the environment.
Harnessing natural light with sun tunnels
Also known as solar tubes or light tubes, sun tunnels are a more innovative solution for bringing natural light into your home.
Unlike skylights, sun tunnels use a reflective tube to capture sunlight and channel it into your living spaces.
Here are some reasons why sun tunnels could work for your home:
1. Flexibility
Sun tunnels can be installed in areas where traditional skylights might not be feasible, such as narrow hallways, closets or bathrooms with limited roof space.
2. Space-saving
As sun tunnels are compact, they can be installed with limited structural changes. This means that homeowners with limited roof space or complex architectural layouts will appreciate their space-saving properties.
3. Cost-effective
Sun tunnels are often more budget-friendly than traditional skylights, making them an attractive option for those looking to maximise natural light without breaking the bank.
4. No heat transfer
Sun tunnels are designed to reduce heat transfer, unlike certain skylights, thus offering a more energy-efficient option throughout the year.
This feature makes them particularly beneficial for maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, contributing to lower energy costs.
Choosing between skylights vs sun tunnels
Now that we’ve discussed the advantages of skylights vs sun tunnels, how do you decide which option is best for you?
Here are some factors to consider:
Location and purpose
Consider the specific areas in your home where you want to increase natural light. Skylights are better suited for larger rooms, while sun tunnels are ideal for smaller or hard-to-reach spaces.
Budget
Think about your budget for the project. Skylights generally require more extensive installation work and materials, so you might decide that sun tunnels may be a more cost-effective choice for you.
Aesthetics
How your roof window looks is also an important consideration – skylights stand out as a design feature, while sun tunnels are less noticeable.
Energy efficiency
Both skylights and sun tunnels reduce the need for electric lights. However, sun tunnels are often better at keeping your home’s temperature steady.
Not as noticeable as skylights, they can help lower your energy bills throughout the year.
Installation
It’s a good idea to think about any complications installation might bring. Skylights could need more work due to potential structural changes, so it’s sensible to get advice from a professional.
Illuminate your home with roof windows
No matter which option you choose, enhancing your home with natural light can improve your living spaces and energy efficiency.
At Roof Window Outlet, our team of experts can help you explore skylight and sun tunnel options and ensure you make the right choice for your home.
Contact us today on 0207 5506595 or email sales@roofwindowoutlet.co.uk. Alternatively, use our online contact form and we’ll get straight back to you.
