Skylights are steadily growing in popularity, largely due to the myriad of benefits they bring. From bathing rooms in beautiful natural light to improving energy efficiency and even potentially increasing the value of a home, the appeal is undeniable.
While some homeowners might be tempted to undertake this as a DIY project, installing a skylight requires expertise, precision, and knowledge. This is where skylight installation companies, like the experts at Beaches Skylights, come into play.
When you’re interested in installing new skylights and want to know more about what the process entails, this blog post is for you.
Continue reading to learn more about the typical steps involved in professional skylight installation.
Before the Skylight Installer Begins Work
Prior to starting your skylight installation project, there are a few considerations that you’ll need to make.
Here are the basics that should be covered before work starts:
- Select the right skylight: Skylights come in various designs, including fixed, ventilated, and tubular. Your choice should depend on the room's requirements and your personal preferences.
- Check local building codes: Ensure your worksite complies with local building codes before starting. Some regulations may require specific types of skylights or particular installation methods.
- Choose the right location: The location of your skylight affects how much sunlight a room will receive. For example, a north-facing skylight provides consistent, softer light, while a south-facing one brings in more heat.
- Consult with Your skylight contractors: Meeting with your skylight contractors and having them assess your property may help with the decision-making process. Doing this will help you better understand what to expect from the process.
Step 1: Preparing the Area for a Roof Window Installation
The first step is to prepare the installation area, which ensures a smooth operation and helps avoid unforeseen challenges. This involves clearing out any furniture, decor, or obstructions within the room where the skylight will be positioned and taking care of cleaning up leaves and debris on the external roof area. It’s also essential to identify the ceiling joists using a stud finder. You’ll want to be sure to mark their locations to avoid cutting them during installation.
Step 2: Marking and Cut the Opening for a Roof Window Fitting
Once your area is primed and ready, the next crucial step is to define where your skylight will shine its light. This typically starts from the interior by identifying the exact position where you desire your skylight.
Your skylight contractors will then drive screws through the ceiling at the intended skylight corners, which will act as reference points when transitioning to the rooftop. When on the roof, they’ll locate the protruding screws and use them to trace the complete outline of your skylight opening.
With the perimeter clearly marked, the contractors will use a saw to make a precise cut through the roofing material, ensuring they follow the guidelines meticulously.
Step 3: Framing the Opening of a Roof Skylight Installation
With your skylight's position marked and cut, the next step is creating a sturdy framework to hold the skylight in place securely. Your contractors will start by assessing the cut-out, making sure it aligns with the ceiling joists and structural components.
This frame—custom-built to match the dimensions of your chosen skylight—acts as a foundational brace, ensuring your skylight sits perfectly flush with the roof's surface.
Step 4: Installing the Skylight
With the opening expertly framed, it’s time for the main event: installing the skylight. Your contractors will carefully lift and place the skylight unit into the prepared opening, ensuring it fits snugly within the frame.
It’s important to align the skylight so that its edges match the frame perfectly and securely fasten it in place using the recommended screws or nails specified by the manufacturer. While placing the skylight is about ensuring optimal natural light entry, securely fixing it is crucial for long-term safety and protection against the elements.
Step 5: Sealing and Insulation Services Performed by Skylight Specialists
After positioning and securing the skylight, the next vital step is ensuring its longevity and efficiency through sealing and insulation. First, the workers will attentively examine the edges of the skylight where it meets the roof, applying a high-quality roofing sealant or tar to form a watertight barrier. This seal keeps rain and snow out and ensures the interior remains draft-free.
Following this, your skylight specialists will turn their attention to the inside. It’s crucial to surround the skylight frame with insulation—whether it's foam or batt insulation—to prevent any potential heat loss or cold drafts. By making sure the skylight is properly sealed and insulated, you optimize its energy efficiency and guarantee a comfortable, naturally lit space for years to come.
Step 6: Your Trusted Skylight Contractor Will Finish the Interior
Once the skylight is securely in place and fully insulated, the final touch involves refining the room's interior. This process is akin to giving your skylight installation a polished, professional finish. Using drywall or similar material, your contractors will carefully craft the inner edges and borders of the skylight, ensuring a smooth transition between the ceiling and the window.
Once the drywall is set, they’ll typically apply a coat of paint that matches the existing ceiling to unify the appearance. For homeowners seeking added functionality, consider adding custom blinds or shades designed for skylights.
Start Enjoying Your New Skylight
That’s it! You can start basking in the amazing natural light that your skylight provides. That said, it’s important to regularly clean the interior and exterior surfaces and inspect for any signs of damage or wear.
Hiring a skylight installation company transforms a complicated task into a seamless experience. While it might seem like a significant investment initially, remember that a properly installed skylight can enhance energy efficiency, increase property value, and bathe your home in a beautiful, natural ambiance.
With professional installation, you not only pay for the physical installation but also the peace of mind knowing it was done right. Are you interested in working with the trusted contractors at Beaches Skylights? We look forward to speaking with you at (416) 948-7580 or info@beachesskylights.com.