Energy Savings from Small Skylights : What to Expect
When you think of skylights, you might picture big, dramatic roof windows flooding a living room with sunshine.
When you think of skylights, you might picture big, dramatic roof windows flooding a living room with sunshine.
How to Keep Your Tubular Skylight Clean and Efficient Tubular skylights (also known as sun tubes or TDDs) are a clever, cost-effective way to brighten dim areas of your home. But just like any daylighting system, a little maintenance goes a long way to ensure they deliver maximum light and keep your energy bills low. Here’s a simple guide to keep your tubular skylight in top condition all year round. Why Clean and Maintain It? Over time, dust, pollen, insects, and debris can build up inside the dome, tube, or diffuser. This reduces how much daylight makes it into your […]
Tubular vs Traditional Skylights: Which is Right for You? Adding more natural light can transform a home — boosting comfort, cutting energy use, and enhancing resale value. But when it comes to skylights, should you go for a traditional skylight or a tubular skylight? Here’s a clear breakdown to help you choose the best option for your space, needs, and budget. What’s the Difference? Traditional Skylights Larger, window-like openings installed directly into the roof. Provide wide views of the sky. Can open for ventilation (vented models) or stay fixed for light only. Commonly used in living rooms, kitchens, or spaces […]
Preventing Skylight Leaks Before Storm Season When storm clouds gather, skylights become a key line of defence against leaks and water damage. While modern skylights are designed to withstand harsh weather, neglect and small wear-and-tear issues can leave them vulnerable just when you need them most. Here’s how to protect your skylight — and your home — before the next downpour hits. Why Storm Season Demands Extra Care Heavy rain, wind-driven debris, and sudden temperature shifts put extra strain on your skylight’s seals, flashing, and glazing. If there’s even a tiny gap or crack, water will find its way in […]
Repair vs. Replace: What’s Right for Your Skylight? Skylights bring warmth, daylight, and fresh air into a room — until they start causing trouble. If you’ve noticed leaks, drafts, or cloudy glazing, you might be asking: Is a repair enough, or is it time for a full replacement? Here’s how to decide what’s truly best for your home and your budget. When a Repair Might Be Enough Repairs can be quick, affordable, and extend the life of a skylight when: Minor Seal Failures: Small gaps or cracks in the sealant can often be re-caulked or resealed. Loose Flashing: If the […]
How to Spot Skylight Damage Early Skylights add a beautiful stream of natural light to any home or building, but like any feature exposed to the weather, they need attention. Even a small issue — a loose seal, tiny crack, or unnoticed leak — can quietly cause major damage if left unchecked. The good news? Spotting problems early is simple if you know what to look for. Why Early Detection Matters Ignoring a minor skylight problem can lead to: Water damage to ceilings, walls, or insulation. Mould growth in hidden areas. Higher energy bills due to poor insulation. Expensive repairs […]
Meeting Energy Standards: Skylights and Compliance In New Zealand, ensuring your home or commercial building meets strict energy standards is no longer just an option — it’s a requirement that protects your wallet, your comfort, and the environment. Skylights can play a surprising role in this, but only if they’re selected and installed with compliance in mind. Here’s what you need to know to stay efficient and meet the standards with confidence. Why Energy Standards Matter Energy performance standards, such as those outlined in the NZ Building Code, ensure buildings use less energy for heating and cooling. This means: Lower […]
Skylight Maintenance Tips for Commercial Buildings Commercial skylights can brighten vast workspaces, cut energy costs, and create an inviting atmosphere — but they require thoughtful maintenance to perform at their best year after year. Neglecting them can lead to leaks, heat loss, and costly repairs that no building owner wants to deal with. Here’s how to keep your skylights in top condition with straightforward, proactive care. Why Regular Skylight Maintenance Matters Unlike standard windows, skylights endure more wear and tear: constant sun exposure, heavy rain, strong winds, and debris build-up. Over time, seals can weaken, flashings can loosen, and small […]
How to Improve Office Productivity with Better Daylighting Modern offices are under constant pressure to do more with less — more output, less burnout. But one simple, often overlooked upgrade can work wonders: better daylighting. Welcoming more natural light into your workspace doesn’t just cut energy bills; it helps people feel sharper, more focused, and far more engaged throughout the day. Why Natural Light Matters for Work Performance It’s no secret that sunlight has a positive impact on mood. For office workers, this translates directly to better work outcomes. Studies have shown that access to good daylight: Improves alertness and […]
Otago winters can be long and cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. As heating costs continue to rise, many homeowners seek energy-efficient solutions to keep their homes warm without increasing power bills. One often-overlooked strategy is installing skylights designed for passive solar heating. By allowing natural light to enter and strategically retaining heat, skylights can significantly reduce reliance on artificial heating. This article explores how modern skylights improve insulation, reduce heat loss, and contribute to a warmer, more sustainable home. How Skylights Improve Energy Efficiency 1. Passive Solar Heating: Using Natural Light for Warmth Skylights act as natural heat […]