A skylight installation service might be just what you need to add warmth and uniqueness to your home. With more sunlight and expansive views of the sky, it can bring nature into your living space while also reducing your energy costs. But what is the true price of your skylight services? While the average price of skylight installation is around $1,800, several factors, including size, labor, and project complexity, influence the final price of your skylight addition.
Skylight Installations: Costs & Their Factors
Companies like Roof Tops have helped clients enhance the charm of their living spaces with simple additions like skylights. If your mind is on the same track, you might be wondering how much you need to open up your wallet to open up your roof.
Keep on reading to learn how much a different skylight installation project can cost!
The Price Tag for the Materials
The first thing you need to consider is the framing material. Skylights have three basic types of frames that offer different kinds of benefits. Here is a look at all of them.
- Vinyl: The most cost-effective of the framing options, vinyl is low-maintenance and energy-efficient. With an estimated price range of around $150-1000, the main downside of vinyl framing is that it could bend or warp in extreme temperatures.
- Metal: Far more durable than vinyl, metal is an excellent option if you live in a cooler climate; it effectively warms up your interiors and reduces heating costs. On average, the material can cost you $200-$1500.
- Wood: Finally, wood is the most beautiful, but it requires high maintenance. The price tag is also higher—$300-$2500—and it is the most resistant to heat transfer.
The Bigger They Are, The Higher the Price
Larger skylights provide the most sunlight and fresh air, but the cost can also jump up significantly. They can also heat up your interiors, so be careful if you live in a hotter climate. If you want to install a skylight of about 25×25 inches, a cautious estimate brings the cost of materials to about $150-$500. Something that’s a bit in the mid-range can be anywhere between $300 and $800, but if you’re interested in something around 49×49 inches, the price tag will jump up to somewhere between $500 and $1900.
Shape Matters
Next, let’s discuss the shape. Something traditional like a square or rectangular skylight will be on the low end of the price range spectrum, ranging anywhere between $150 and $2000. On the other hand, if you’re interested in something different, the price will be much higher.
A circular skylight will cost you around $400-$1000, while a pyramid skylight sits somewhere between $500 and $3000. And if you want something completely custom? Be prepared to spend anywhere from $1500 to $5000.
Skylight Type: Tube, Ventilated or Fixed
Something simple like a tubular skylight is on the lowest end of the price range, while vented skylights are the most expensive to install. If mere illumination is what you’re going for, a budget of around $200 to $500 for materials should suffice. Fixed skylight materials can cost you $200 to $1200, while vented skylights can make the price tag jump up to $400 to $2000. It all depends on your personal preference.
Labor Costs—The Price of True Skill
Another important factor is the labor costs. Skylights generally tend to be pricier than roofs because they require specialists for efficient installation, but if the shape is complicated or if the size is too big, the final price will also fluctuate significantly.
Local Permits & Paperwork
Installing skylights can involve undergoing significant infrastructural changes, as you might need to move around electrical, plumbing, and gutter systems to accommodate the new addition. As such, you will need to have your project approved by local authorities, and that can also add to the final check.
The Price Tag for Your Roof
Setting up skylights in pitched roofs is generally the easiest thing and is on the lower end of the spectrum of price spectrum. However, if you insist on installing a skylight on your flat roof, the procedure is a bit more complicated and will cost you a pretty penny.
Additions & Special Features
Additions such as mosquito nets on vented skylights will also crank up the price. On the other hand, if you want to glaze your glass or install blinds for reduced UV damage and temperature regulation, that will impact the price as well.
Conclusion
A skylight installation is a great way to invite natural light, reduce energy costs, and enhance the personality of your home. While the average installation price can range anywhere between $1000 and $3000, it is important to remember that this is a cautious estimate, and the final price tag will vary from project to project. If you have any further inquiries, feel free to drop us a line, and we’d be more than happy to answer your questions!
FAQs
- What type of roof is better for a skylight?
Roofs with rafters are generally considered better for skylight installations. - How much time does a skylight installation take?
Depending on your unique project, a skylight installation can take anywhere from half a day to three days. - How long does a skylight last?
With the proper installation and maintenance, your skylight can last anywhere from 8 to 20 years. - Are skylights energy efficient?
Yes, modern skylights are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Features like double glazing, low-E coatings, and proper sealing help reduce heat loss in winter and minimize heat gain in summer. - Can a skylight be installed on a flat roof?
Yes, skylights can be installed on flat roofs using specially designed models, such as domed or curb-mounted skylights, to ensure proper drainage and prevent water pooling.
