Types of Skylights – Pros & Cons

There are many types of skylights available on the market and choosing the ideal lighting solution for your situation can be difficult. Once you've gone through the numerous factors to consider (purpose, placement, size, light level, accessories, energy rating), you can easily select the type of skylight that's right for you. See our how to choose a skylight guide if you haven't done this yet.

Compare the pros and cons of each skylight type to help ensure that you're new skylight will light up your home or office. You can research your choice further using the links and then get a quote for the skylight fully installed.

Standard Skylights

Standard Skylight

Pros:

  • Lots of light at an affordable price.
  • Flexible shaft allows for some obstructions in the roof.
  • 10 year warranty on materials and workmanship.
  • Installed in approximately 3 hours.
  • 9 Sizes to choose from.

Cons:

  • Not as strong or visually appealing as VELUX skylights.
  • Not suitable for bushfire zone areas.
  • No view of the sky.

Conclusion:

Choose a Standard Skylight if you want maximum daylight at the best price.

See Standard Skylights

Fixed VELUX Skylights

Fixed VELUX Skylights

Pros:

  • Heat + UV tested. Hail tested. Cyclone tested. Load tested. Bushfire tested.
  • Clear views of blue skies and stars at night.
  • Control light levels with blinds.

Cons:

  • Longer installation time and multiple trades required.
  • Larger financial investment.

Conclusion:

Choose a fixed VELUX Skylight for the best protection from the Australian climate and stunning architectural features.

See VELUX Skylights

Openable VELUX Skylights

Openable VELUX Skylights

Pros:

  • Solar or electric opening has a built-in rain sensor with automatic closing.
  • Improves the appearance of the room and adds value to the home.
  • Open to access fresh, clean air or control the room's climate.
  • Fly screens come as standard.
  • Manual openable range available.

Cons:

  • Longer installation time and multiple trades required.
  • Manual openable range will not close on their own if it rains.
  • Largest financial investment

Conclusion:

Choose an openable VELUX Skylight if you want fresh air / climate control and to enhance the appearance of the room.

See VELUX Skylights

VELUX Roof Windows

VELUX Roof Windows

Pros:

  • Provides both light and fresh air.
  • Provides ventilation even when closed.
  • Full opening to allow stepping out to a balcony.
  • Fly Screen available for the GPL series.
  • Can be flipped for easy cleaning.
  • Easy to open and close.

Cons:

  • Won't close automatically.
  • Needs to be installed at heights within reach.
  • Requires opening restrictor when installed without a balcony.

Conclusion:

Choose a VELUX Roof Window if you want light and ventilation at heights within reach. Ideal for making attics / lofts livable.

See VELUX Roof Windows

VELUX Sun Tunnel

VELUX Sun Tunnel

Pros:

  • Sufficient for small spaces.
  • Quick and easy installation.
  • Lower cost than other VELUX options.
  • Rigid shaft can be installed with elbows to allow bending in the shaft.
  • Rigid shaft is highly reflective with upto 6500 lumen out vs 2100 lumen for the flexible shaft.

Cons:

  • Less light than square shaped skylights of same diameter.
  • Not recommended for standard sized rooms.
  • Limited flexible shaft length available.
  • Not suitable for flat roofs.

Conclusion:

Choose a VELUX Sun Tunnel if you want to light up a small space with natural light, e.g. a walk in robe or pantry.

See VELUX Sun Tunnels

Solar LED Skylights

Solar LED Skylight

Pros:

  • Multiple lights can be wired to the 1 solar panel without compromising light output.
  • Surface Mount or Recessed lights available.
  • Australian Made & Owned Company
  • Can be controlled as a regular light.
  • Can be installed virtually anywhere.
  • No roof penetration.
  • Quick installation time.

Cons:

  • Limited sizes.
  • Artificial light.

Conclusion:

Choose a solar LED Skylight if a conventional skylight cannot be installed or if you're on a tight budget.

See Solar LED Skylights

Too Many Options?

If you're feeling overwhelmed by too many options, that's OK, we get it!
Give our friendly team a call on 1300 35 15 15 for expert advice and good old fashioned customer service.

Our Quoting Process

Initial Estimate

1

Call us on 1300 35 15 15 for expert advice or get a quote and you'll receive an initial estimate within 48 hours.

On-site Inspection

2

Our team will perform a detailed on-site inspection to ensure your desired skylight solution is optimal.

Custom Quote

3

You'll received a custom quote that's tailored to the requirements of your project and space.