Q: My husband and I are remodeling a cramped attic bathroom. The costs are adding up, and we are trying to make decisions about what to keep or give up. We wanted to add a windowed dormer to make the ceiling higher and give the bathroom more room, but it got expensive. Without any other way to add a window, I think a skylight would be a good way to bring in light. My husband hears only horror stories about how skylights leak, fog up, and destroy the roof, so he doesn't want to spend the money. What do you think?
A: A bathroom with a beautiful skylight is a little luxury for every day, as any natural light is going to be better than none. With a skylight, your bathroom will look larger, more airy, and brighter. Sometimes the light from a skylight is even brighter and more consistent than light from a standard window and can make the ceiling seem higher, too. And, a view of treetops and the stars at night is a great way to bring the outdoors inside.
I love how attic bathrooms are full of quirks and charm that help create a fun and personal space. You didn't mention your other priorities for this remodeling, so weigh your options carefully together with your husband. I'll say, however, that a spacious bathroom with nice natural light is more romantic than a bathroom with poor lighting.
Skylights also provide an unparalleled sense of privacy. Unless you have a house surrounded by tall buildings or your neighbors really like to climb trees, passersby on the street won't ever get a peek inside your bathroom. And if you do need privacy or more light control, there are shades designed for skylights that will help.
As for leaks and other issues, a licensed contractor or company with experience should prevent any trouble. They also would be able to tell you whether adding a skylight is even possible for your house, and what kind of heating options and ventilation you'll need. And they can advise you on other considerations, depending on how your house, particularly the roof, is built, and whether some local building codes are relevant.
Jennifer Adams is an award-winning designer, author, and TV personality. Send your questions to or for more design ideas, visit Jennifer's blog on her website at www.jenniferadams.com.
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Skylights for Your Bathroom
Whether you use your bathroom to apply makeup, brush your teeth, or simply look at yourself for a positive daily affirmation, the light in your bathroom can make a big difference.
Adding windows to a bathroom can be costly, but a bathroom skylight might be just the solution you need. Skylights are a great way to bring both natural light and fresh air into your bathroom area while still maintaining your privacy.
Natural Light
Natural light brings beauty to any bathroom, and negates the need for too much artificial lighting, which can be a strain on both your eyes and your electricity bill.
Natural light looks great and creates an ideal environment for grooming and makeup application. Plus, bathroom skylights are a smart way to add gorgeous sunlight without sacrificing privacy!
Looking to create a private sanctuary? You can also opt for a skylight with retractable blinds!
Fresh Air
By installing a bathroom skylight that opens up, you have the opportunity to bring fresh air into your bathroom. Fresh air is excellent for your health, and it can also help with the dampness that tends to build up in a room repeatedly filled with moisture. Ventilation helps keep mold at bay, creates a natural airflow, and will undoubtedly bring an energizing start to your morning.
Solar Tubes
Like the idea of installing a skylight, but worried about the changes it will make to your roof or the costs you might incur? A roof daylighting system captures rays from your roof into a highly reflective tube and can deliver them to almost any room in your house. Because this solar tube angles between roof trusses and can be easily sealed, it’s cost effective and quick to install.
Roof daylighting is also beneficial for the environment, as it can significantly reduce greenhouse gases, water, and air pollution, since the added light can naturally warm and light up any room. There’s also data to suggest that this added exposure to sunlight can improve your mood.
Need Help Installing a Skylight?
Still have questions about installing a skylight or solar tube? Contact SUNVEK today! As the premier roofing contractor here in Phoenix, AZ, our team can help you bring more sunshine into your life!
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Average Skylight Installation Cost | |
Average Cost | $1,750 |
Highest Cost | $2,500 |
Lowest Cost | $1,000 |