You’re thinking about adding a skylight, but aren’t sure which type is right for your home.
In this article, I’ll break down all the main skylight types, so you can match the perfect style skylight to your space.
At William Penn Roofing, I’ve helped hundreds of homeowners like you install the right skylight to improve their home’s ambiance and natural lighting.
Ready to brighten your home with a skylight? Get a free estimate for skylight installation from our licensed roofing contractors today.
Choosing your skylight is just the first step. Check out my full video playlist for everything else you need to know about skylights.
Skylights by Function: A Simple Breakdown
Let’s start by talking about function-based skylights.
Fixed Skylights
Fixed skylights are the most common type of skylight. They don’t open and are generally the most affordable option.
- Pros: Low maintenance, energy efficient, and relatively easy to install.
- Cons: No ventilation.
These skylights are best for rooms that don’t require airflow, like a hallway or living room.
Ventilating Skylights
Ventilating skylights can open to let fresh air in, making them ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, or attics. You can choose between manual or solar-powered options, and they help control moisture in steamy spaces like bathrooms.
- Pros: Provides ventilation, improves airflow, helps control moisture, available in manual or solar-powered options.
- Cons: More expensive than fixed skylights and requires more maintenance due to moving parts.
These skylights are best for rooms that need both natural light and airflow, especially areas prone to humidity.
Tubular Skylights (Sun Tunnels)
Also known as sun tunnels, these skylights use a reflective tube to channel sunlight into small or tight spaces like hallways, closets, laundry rooms, and windowless bathrooms. They’re incredibly energy efficient, cost-effective, and ideal for areas where traditional skylights won’t fit.
- Pros: Very energy efficient, affordable, fits in tight spaces, great for interior rooms without windows.
- Cons: Smaller light output compared to traditional skylights and no ventilation.
These skylights are best for compact or interior spaces that need natural light but can’t accommodate a standard skylight.
Want to learn more about sun tunnels? Check out our full video.
Solar-Powered Skylights
Solar-powered skylights feature solar cells on both the top and bottom and offer advanced functionality for light and comfort control. Some models open for ventilation, while others include room-darkening or light-filtering blinds that can be stopped at any point, and many work with remotes or home automation systems—some even close automatically when it rains thanks to built-in rain sensors.
- Pros: Energy efficient, can include ventilation, adjustable blinds, remote or smart home control, and rain-sensing technology.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost and more complex installation.
These skylights are best for hard-to-reach areas like vaulted ceilings where convenience, automation, and control matter most.
Understanding Different Skylight Shapes
Now, let’s talk about skylights based on their shape.
Flat Skylights
- Offer a sleek, minimalist look.
- Very popular for homes with pitched roofs.
- These look almost like a window on your roof; some people even call them roof windows.
Round Skylights
- Provide a unique architectural accent.
- They diffuse light softly, which makes them great for bathrooms or hallways.
Dome Skylights
- Usually made from acrylic or polycarbonate.
- Super strong and durable.
- Distribute light evenly and add visual interest to flat roofs.
Pyramid Skylights
- Common in commercial buildings.
- Add height and a dramatic light effect.
Ridge Skylights
- Installed along the roof’s peak.
- Bring in as much daylight as possible and make a bold design statement.
Custom Skylights
- Great if you want a totally unique skylight.
- It can be designed to fit any roof structure or shape.
- Usually requires a larger budget and professional planning, but the results can be stunning.
Skylights by Installation Method, Explained
Next, we’ll discuss types of skylights based on how they’re installed.
Deck-Mounted Skylights
- Mounted directly onto the substrate of the roof.
- Have a low profile.
- Ideal for new construction or full roof replacements.
Curb-Mounted Skylights
- Sit on a raised frame (called a curb).
- Easier to replace later.
- Best for low-slope or flat roofs.
Ceiling Considerations When Installing Your Skylight
Your ceiling plays a big role in the way your skylight is installed:
- Vaulted ceilings often allow for a direct skylight install.
- Flat ceilings may require a light shaft, which lets sunlight travel down into the room.
- Flaring the shaft can help illuminate the space more effectively.
Skylight Materials You Can Choose From
Skylights can be made from several different materials:
Glass Skylights
- These are the gold standard.
- Provide clear views and strong insulation.
- Available in options like laminated, tempered, and impact-resistant glass.
Acrylic Skylights
- Extremely lightweight and budget-friendly.
- May yellow over time.
- Not as durable as glass.
Polycarbonate Skylights
- Extremely impact-resistant; perfect for areas prone to hail.
- Can be more susceptible to scratches compared to other materials.
How Do You Choose the Best Skylight for Your Home?
Before you buy a skylight, ask yourself:
- Do I need natural light, ventilation, or both?
- What is the pitch and material of my roof?
- What is my budget?
- Do I need to consider energy efficiency and climate conditions?
Most importantly, work with a professional who can offer the right fit.
Let Natural Light Into Your Space with William Penn Roofing
If you’re ready to add light, ventilation, and style to your home with a skylight, William Penn Roofing is here to help. We’ll recommend the right skylight for your space, needs, and roof type, using industry-leading products for optimal energy efficiency and design.
Contact us today to schedule your free quote and find the perfect skylight for your space.
