When you plan on adding natural light to your home, one of your go-to options is installing skylights. However, you should also consider solar tubes. In this post, your trusted vinyl siding and skylight expert, Burr Roofing, Siding, & Windows, shares their benefits and differences.

solar tubes


What Are Their Main Differences?


Skylights consist of glass, acrylic, and polycarbonate material and are located on your home’s roofing system. 


They’re shaped like a rectangle and consist of parts like the frame, flashing, and glazing. When you’re looking for skylights, a good rule of thumb to follow is that the bigger it is, the better. However, it shouldn’t exceed 15 percent of the room’s square footage it’s installed in.


Solar tubes can also be called tubular skylights. However, some roof replacement contractors also call them light tubes or sun tunnels. They consist of an acrylic or polycarbonate dome installed on your roofing system. They catch sunlight by reflecting it on a flexible metal sheet tube in your attic before spreading light on the diffusing lens in your room’s ceiling.


Which Should You Consider Installing?


Both skylights and solar tubes share their fair share of advantages and drawbacks, but they both need to be installed in an area that is heavily exposed to natural light. Other things that you have to consider are your local climate, installation fees, and budget. 


As such, you should consult with your local contractor to let them assess the best option for your home. 


However, if you want to increase your home’s curb appeal, then skylights are the way to go since they’re aesthetically pleasing. If you want more natural light and energy efficiency, then solar tubes are a great option since they are low-profile light fixtures.


Burr Roofing, Siding, & Windows installs high-quality windows that are beautiful, strong, and energy-efficient. 


To upgrade the look and performance of your home, get in touch with us so you can learn more about our wide selection of replacement windows. 


Count on us for your metal roofing needs as well. Call (203) 660-2009 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.