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Can I add a skylight to my garage roof?
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If you’re looking to bring more natural light into your garage, a skylight is a fantastic option. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss the benefits and drawbacks of installing a garage skylight, explore alternative ways to bring natural light into your home, and provide step-by-step instructions for adding a garage rooflight. Let’s get started!
What is a skylight?
A skylight is a window-like opening installed directly into the roof of a building, designed to flood your interior space with glorious sunlight. Our skylights are carefully crafted using top-quality materials, to ensure durability and excellent light transmission.
With various shapes and sizes available, you can choose the perfect skylight to suit your garage and bring a touch of elegance to your space. Skylights are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide lots of practical benefits – let’s find out more.
Why consider a skylight in your garage
There are numerous advantages of adding a skylight to your garage roof. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Natural light: A skylight floods your space with beautiful natural light, creating a bright, inviting atmosphere that can transform your gloomy garage into a vibrant space.
- Energy efficiency: By harnessing natural sunlight, a skylight reduces the need for artificial lighting, which can help lower your energy consumption and reduce electricity bills.
- Visual appeal: A skylight adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your garage. It enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the space and can increase the value of your property.
- Ventilation: Some skylights offer the option of opening, providing natural ventilation that helps remove stale air and odours from your garage.
Alternative ways to introduce light into your garage
Of course, a garage skylight might not always be a suitable solution. Fortunately, there are other ways to maximize natural light, with some of the alternatives including:
- Windows: Installing windows, sliding doors, or bi-folding doors can bring in ample natural light. Check out our guide where we’ve explained the different types of windows for more information about our available options. Or you can download our free brochure to see specific details on each of our glazed products.
- Roof lanterns: A pyramid lantern is a stylish alternative to a skylight. It consists of a raised structure with glass panels that sit atop your garage roof, allowing natural light to flow into the space. Roof lanterns can create a stunning architectural feature and offer excellent light diffusion. If you’re interested in learning more, explore our complete guide to roof lanterns.
- Light tubes: Light tubes, also known as sun tunnels or tubular skylights, are ideal for garages with limited roof space. They capture sunlight from the roof and redirect it into your garage via a reflective tube, illuminating the space.
Adding a skylight to a working garage
If you want to add a garage rooflight, we’d always suggest getting professional advice or help, to ensure the best quality finish. However, if you decide to take on the installation yourself, simply follow these steps:
- Plan and prepare: When choosing a suitable area for the skylight, consider factors like structural integrity and nearby obstructions. At this point, you should also check regulations in case you need to obtain an installation permit.
- Select the skylight: Accurately measure the dimensions of the area where your garage flat roof skylight will be installed, considering factors like size, material, and any additional features like ventilation.
- Prepare your roof: Remove any debris, roofing materials, or obstructions from the installation site, and use chalk or masking tape to mark the exact dimensions of the opening.
- Install the skylight: Following the marked dimensions, carefully cut the opening in your garage roof. Apply flashing around the opening to ensure a watertight seal.
- Fit the skylight: Carefully place the skylight into the opening, ensuring it is level and properly aligned. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to secure the skylight in place, using appropriate screws or fasteners. Apply a weather-resistant sealant around the edges of the skylight to prevent leaks.
- Finishing touches: Ensure the area around the skylight is properly insulated and weatherproofed, to maintain energy efficiency and prevent drafts. Perform a thorough inspection and test for any potential leaks, addressing any issues promptly.
Adding a skylight to a converted garage
If you have a converted garage and wish to install a skylight yourself, the process may be slightly different. We’ve outlined the additional steps to consider.
Assess structural integrity
If you’re unsure about the structural integrity of your converted garage, consult an engineer or a qualified contractor. If necessary, reinforce the roof to ensure it can support the weight and installation of a skylight, following the recommendations provided by a professional.
Plan interior modifications
Consider the layout and function of your converted garage to determine the ideal location for the skylight. It should provide maximum light and complement the space’s design – but should also be within reach to let you clean your skylight inside and out!
Follow the steps for working garage installation
Follow the same steps outlined above for installing a skylight in a working garage, including planning, selecting the skylight, preparing the roof, and fitting the skylight. During the installation process, ensure any necessary interior modifications, such as adjusting ceiling framing or finishes, are coordinated seamless integration.
By adding a skylight to your garage roof, you can bring in abundant natural light, enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space, and create a bright and welcoming atmosphere. For more inspiration and flat roof extension ideas, get in touch with our team or head on over to the our blog.
