A skylight can turn a dull kitchen or living area into a dramatic centrepiece for your home. But installing a skylight DIY isn’t wise, so you will need to hire an experienced professional to get the job done safely and correctly. If you are searching hipages for a local skylight installer, here’s what you can expect them to provide.

What does a skylight installer do?

A skylight installer is a professional tradie who instals dedicated windows that allow natural light to enter a property via the roof or ceiling. Skylight installers will work on both residential and commercial properties, and they may be hired for new construction projects or for retrofitting existing buildings.

The primary responsibility of a skylight installer is to install skylights that meet the building owner's needs and specifications. This may involve determining the best location for the skylight, selecting the appropriate type and size of skylight, and taking care of installation so that the skylight is securely and properly sealed against the elements.

Skylight installers may also be responsible for cutting holes in the roof or ceiling, framing the opening and installing the necessary flashing and insulation. They may work with glass, acrylic, polycarbonate or metal, depending on the building owner's preferences and budget.

In addition to installation, skylight installers may also provide ongoing maintenance and spot-repair services to ensure your skylights continue to function properly and remain free from leaks and other issues. They may also help educate you on the particulars of skylight maintenance, such as cleaning and sealing, which can extend the life of your skylight and prevent future problems.

What are the most common types of skylight?

There are three main types of skylights: roof windows, sun tunnels and traditional skylights, each of which serve their own unique purpose:

Roof Windows

Roof windows are good for areas such as attics crawl spaces, as well as living areas that have cathedral ceilings and little to no actual roof space. Roof windows can be opened, which is great for Australian summers where heat can collect in the upper levels of your home. Typically, they make use of double-insulating glass which is sealed to prevent heat loss and condensation. Roof windows usually have timber frames with external cladding made from powder-coated aluminium or, in some cases, steel. 

Roof windows can also be used in homes that have flat ceilings. However, in these cases they are combined with a shaft. These windows can be fixed or openable.

Sun Tunnels

Sun tunnels are generally used where a roof window or a skylight won’t fit. They are generally smaller than traditional skylights but still bring in a large amount of natural light, making them suitable for small areas such as walk-in cupboards and passageways.

Traditional skylights

Skylights are both cost-effective and energy-efficient – reducing the need for you to use artificial lighting in your home; they also reduce heat loss. Skylights come in a variety of sizes, depending on your needs. A smaller 350mm skylight, for example, could be used in a kitchen, while two 400mm skylights correctly spaced can evenly light a large room, such as an open-plan living room.

Skylights can be fixed or open-able for ventilation. Openable skylights can be manually or electrically operated and are great for getting extra ventilation in the home. They come in varying shapes and sizes, with some including tubular, pyramidal, domed, triangular and hexagonal. They also have a range of glazing options such as clear, tinted or opal (opaque). The materials used for skylights are generally plastic, glass (double-glazed and safety-treated), aluminium, steel and stainless steel.

Why is it important to hire a professional skylight installer?

Hiring a professional skylight installer is important for several reasons:

• High-quality installation: A professional installer will ensure the skylight is optimally placed and installed correctly, minimising the risk of leaks and other issues that could compromise the integrity of your property. This is particularly important in areas with heavy rain or parts of Australia prone to snowfall, as even small leaks can lead to significant moisture damage over time.
• Helpful advice: Your chosen skylight installer can also provide valuable advice and recommendations on the best skylight for your property. They can help determine the appropriate size and type of skylight, taking into account factors such as the building's location, orientation and how much natural light you want.
• Maintenance and repair: They can also provide additional services such as ongoing maintenance and spot repairs. Your professional will ensure the skylight stays in good condition and functions properly, which can help extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs down the line.

When hiring a professional skylight installer, it is important to do your research and check their qualifications. Look for a licensed and insured installer with a solid reputation from previous clients. You should also get multiple quotes to compare pricing and services offers.

How much does a skylight installer cost?

The size and complexity of installing an individual skylight, combined with labour costs, will determine the final price. Simple dome skylights, typically manufactured from Perspex and easily installed, may only cost a few hundred dollars. Roof windows and skylights that have complex flashing and double-glazing will be priced higher, often in the thousands-of-dollars range. Installation costs will be determined by the complexity of the job, ease of access to your roof, your location and other factors.

According to Vertec Roofing, a single tubular skylight installation can cost as little as $250 whereas vented skylights (manual, electric or solar) can cost right up to $4,000.

What to ask when hiring a local skylight installer

When hiring a local skylight installer, there are several important questions you should ask to ensure you are making an informed decision:

• Are you licensed and insured?
• What types of skylights do you install? (e.g. fixed or operable, flat or domed, acrylic or glass)
• Can you provide references or examples of past work?
• How long will the installation take?
• What will the total cost of the installation be?
• Do you also provide maintenance and repair services?

Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.