Should You Get Fixed or Ventilated Skylights?

Skylights are a fantastic way to bring natural light into your home, brighten up dim spaces, and even improve ventilation. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right type of skylight can feel overwhelming.

Two of the most common types of skylights are fixed and ventilated. Each comes with its own set of benefits and considerations, and the one you choose will depend on your specific needs and the space you’re upgrading.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between fixed and ventilated skylights, their advantages, and how to decide which is best for your home.

What to Know About Fixed Skylights

Fixed skylights are stationary windows installed in the roof that don’t open. Their main function is to bring in natural light and enhance the aesthetic appeal of a room.

Some of the key features of fixed skylights include:

• Better Lighting: Fixed skylights are designed to bring abundant sunlight into your home, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.
• Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: They come in a variety of sleek designs and shapes, making them an eye-catching feature that can elevate any room’s look.
• Energy Efficiency: Many fixed skylights, like those offered by Solatube, are built with energy-efficient glazing that minimizes heat transfer and maintains comfortable indoor temperatures.
• Weatherproof Design: Since they don’t open, fixed skylights offer excellent protection against water leaks and drafts.

Fixed skylights are ideal for spaces where additional ventilation isn’t a priority but natural light is essential. They’re a beautiful way to make living rooms, dining rooms, or bedrooms feel more open and connected to the outdoors. They also require minimal upkeep and offer excellent insulation, making them a practical and stylish addition to just about any home.

What to Know About Ventilated Skylights

Ventilated skylights combine all of the benefits of natural light with the functionality of fresh air circulation. They can be opened manually, electrically, or even with solar-powered systems to allow airflow into your home.

Some of the key features of ventilated skylights include:

• Dual Functionality: They provide both natural light and ventilation, offering a dynamic solution for a wide variety of rooms.
• Moisture Control: Ventilated skylights are particularly effective in areas that are prone to humidity, helping to reduce moisture and prevent mold.
• Rain Sensors: Our ventilated skylights come with automatic rain sensors that close the skylight when it detects rain – keeping your home dry even if you forget to close it.

Ventilated skylights are a fantastic fit for rooms that would benefit from additional airflow, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. They can help to regulate indoor temperatures by releasing warm air trapped near the ceiling, and the models offered by Solatube even come with an integrated solar panel that allows them to qualify for federal tax credits.

How to Choose Between Fixed and Ventilated Skylights

When trying to decide between fixed and ventilated skylights, it often helps to ask yourself a few key questions, such as:

What room am I going to put the skylight in?

Think about the room’s function and whether it would benefit from natural light, ventilation, or both. For example, a living room or bedroom might only need a fixed skylight to bring in sunlight and enhance the ambiance, while a kitchen or bathroom could benefit from a ventilated skylight to improve airflow and reduce humidity.

What’s the purpose of the skylight?

Consider what you’re hoping to achieve with the skylight. If your goal is to make a space brighter and more inviting, a fixed skylight might be the ideal choice. If you’re also looking for better ventilation or a way to release warm air, a ventilated skylight can be a practical solution.

What’s my climate like?

Your local climate can also play a role in the decision. Fixed skylights are great for maintaining insulation in colder areas, while ventilated skylights are perfect for releasing warm air in hotter regions or during the summer months.

What’s my budget?

Think about how much you’re willing to invest in your skylight. Fixed skylights are often a more budget-friendly option, while ventilated skylights may have higher upfront costs due to their added functionality.

Still Can’t Decide Which Skylight is Right for You?

If you are still having trouble choosing between fixed and ventilated skylights, the Solatube team is here to help! We’ve been installing skylights in homes across the nation for years, so we know everything there is to know about the pros and cons of each option.

To talk to one of our experienced dealers and learn more about your options, just give us a call at (888) 765-2882. We look forward to hearing from you!