Key Takeaways
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Skylight Installation Cost | $1,600 – $4,200 |
| Skylight Replacement Cost | $800 – $2,400 |
| Larger and Complex Installations Cost | Can exceed $5,000 |
| Cost Variation Based on Type | Fixed, Ventilating, and Tubular skylights have different cost ranges |
| Cost Factors | Brand, size, type, and roof slope are key cost factors |
Adding a skylight can transform your home by bringing in natural light and creating an open atmosphere. But what does the installation of a skylight cost? This guide breaks down the costs involved in installing different types of skylights, including material and labor expenses, helping homeowners make informed decisions about their investments.
New Skylight Cost to Install
Installing a new skylight typically costs between $1,600 and $4,200, depending on the type of skylight, the complexity of the installation, and the specific materials used. This cost includes the price of the skylight unit itself and the labor required to install it. Factors such as roof slope, skylight size, and additional features like motorized blinds or integrated solar panels can also influence the total cost.
Skylight Costs to Replace
Replacing an existing skylight is generally less expensive than installing a new one, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,400. This price includes removing the old skylight, installing the new one, and ensuring a proper seal to prevent leaks. The cost can vary based on the type of skylight being replaced, the condition of the existing roof, and any necessary repairs or adjustments to the surrounding structure.
Skylight Cost to Install
Below is a table outlining the costs for installing skylights of various sizes:
| Skylight Size (width x height) | Total Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| 21” x 38” | $1,400 – $4,100 |
| 21” x 46” | $1,500 – $4,200 |
| 21” x 55” | $1,550 – $4,300 |
| 30” x 30” | $1,450 – $4,200 |
| 30” x 38” | $1,550 – $4,200 |
| 30” x 46” | $1,600 – $4,300 |
| 30” x 55” | $1,700 – $4,400 |
| 33” x 33” | $1,500 – $4,300 |
| 46” x 46” | $1,700 – $4,600 |
Average Cost To Add A Skylight
The national average cost to add a skylight varies depending on the complexity and size of the project. Here’s a summary of these costs:
| Average Cost to Add a Skylight | Price |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $2,900 |
| Minimum cost | $500 |
| Maximum cost | $5,700 |
| Average cost range | $1,600 to $4,200 |
Skylight Costs By Type
Different types of skylights come with different cost implications. Below is a table summarizing costs by skylight type:
| Type | Unit Price | Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed skylight (popular flat & dome-shaped types) | $150 – $800 | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Ventilating skylight (roof windows that open & close) | $300 – $2,000 | $1,600 – $4,700 |
| Tubular sun-tunnel skylight (bubble-shaped or flat-round skylights) | $150 – $500 | $500 – $1,000 |
Fixed Skylight Cost
Fixed skylights are generally the most affordable option. They do not open and range in price from $150 for basic models to $800 for high-end variations. Installed, the cost falls between $1,500 and $4,000, depending on the size and complexity.
Ventilating Skylight Cost
Ventilating skylights, which are roof windows that can be opened, provide fresh air and additional light. They are more expensive due to their functionality. Here’s the cost breakdown for different types of ventilating skylights:
| Type | Unit Price | Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Manual-opening | $300 – $1,200 | $1,600 – $3,900 |
| Electric-powered | $1,100 – $1,600 | $2,500 – $4,600 |
| Solar-powered | $1,100 – $2,000 | $2,400 – $4,700 |
Tubular Sun-Tunnel Skylight Cost
Tubular sun-tunnel skylights are great for spaces where traditional skylights may not fit. They are generally cheaper, with unit prices ranging from $150 to $500 and installed costs between $500 and $1,000.
Skylight Prices By Brand
Let’s look at some of the leading skylight brands and their respective cost ranges:
| Brand | Price Range | Types |
|---|---|---|
| Velux | $150 – $2,000 | Fixed, Vented, Tubular, All types of glass & plastics |
| Fakro | $220 – $3,500 | Fixed, Vented, Tubular, Various glass models |
| Sun-Tek | $30 – $475 | Fixed, Tubular, Polycarbonate (plastic), Tempered glass |
| SolaTube | $140 – $500 | Tubular, Flexible tubing with highly reflective interior |
| Sunoptics | $170 – $650 | Fixed, Vented, Square or rectangle shapes, Glass or acrylic |
Cost To Install A Velux Skylight
Velux is one of the most popular brands, known for its quality and range of options. Installing a Velux skylight typically costs between $1,500 and $4,200, depending on the model and complexity of the installation.
Cost Factors To Install A Skylight
Several factors contribute to the overall cost of installing a skylight:
Skylight Sizes And Prices
Here is a detailed breakdown of skylight sizes and their respective price ranges:
| Size (width x height) | Skylight Price Range |
|---|---|
| 21” x 38” | $200 – $1,200 |
| 21” x 46” | $300 – $1,300 |
| 21” x 55” | $350 – $1,400 |
| 30” x 30” | $250 – $1,300 |
| 30” x 38” | $350 – $1,300 |
| 30” x 46” | $400 – $1,400 |
| 30” x 55” | $500 – $1,500 |
| 33” x 33” | $300 – $1,400 |
| 46” x 46” | $500 – $1,600 |
Labor Cost To Put In And Install A Skylight
The labor cost to install a skylight can vary significantly. Generally, you should expect to pay between $500 and $1,000 for installation, but this can be higher for more complex jobs.
Cost To Install A Skylight In Attic
Installing a skylight in an attic often requires additional work, increasing both labor and material costs. Homeowners should expect to pay at least $1,500 to $3,500 for attic installations.
Flat Vs. Pitched Roof Skylight Installation Cost
The slope of your roof significantly affects installation difficulty and cost. Here is a comparison of installation costs for flat and pitched roofs:
| Type | Average Cost Installed |
|---|---|
| Flat-roof standard skylights | $2,100 – $4,800 |
| Pitched-roof skylights | $1,600 – $4,200 |
Roof Window Finish Costs
Different finishes also impact the price of installing skylights. High-grade, weather-resistant finishes can add a premium to the overall cost, ranging from $100 to $500 extra.
Commercial Skylights Cost
Commercial skylights generally have higher costs due to their size and complexity. Here is a breakdown of common commercial skylight types and their costs:
| Type | Installed Cost | Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous vaulted | $125 – $500 /linear foot | 16” – 84” wide |
| Dome units | $1,250 – $1,600 each | Up to 50” square, Single or double acrylic |
| Extra-large round units | $1,200 – $5,800 each | 60” – 90” wide, Plastic |
| Glass roof canopies | $3,000 – $7,000+ each | 150 – 300 square feet or larger |
Pros And Cons Of Skylights
Skylights offer several advantages and some drawbacks. Here’s a summary to help you weigh your decision:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More natural light for dark interiors | Overheating & over-lighting rooms |
| Summer energy savings | Heat loss in winter |
| Natural heat gain for colder rooms | Leaking with improper installation |
| Flexible installation options | Harder to clean than regular windows |
| Spacious design aesthetic | Expensive for new installations |
| Increased homebuyer appeal | Condensation buildup without proper ventilation |
| Fresh air (ventilating models) | Color fading of interior carpets & furniture from excess light |
| May increase homeowners insurance |
Skylight Installation FAQs
Do Skylights Add Value To A Home?
Yes, skylights can add value to a home by enhancing the natural light and aesthetic appeal, which is attractive to potential homebuyers.
How Long Do Skylights Last?
Quality skylights typically last between 20 to 30 years, depending on installation quality and maintenance.
How Long Does It Take To Install A Skylight?
A standard skylight installation usually takes 1 to 3 days, but more complex projects may take longer.
Do Skylights Always Leak?
Not necessarily. Proper installation and quality materials can prevent leaks. However, poor installation can lead to problems.
Hiring A Skylight Installation Contractor
Questions To Ask
Before hiring a contractor, consider asking the following questions:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Can you provide references from previous clients?
- What is the warranty period for the skylight and the installation?
- How long will the installation take?
- What preparatory work is required before installation?
By understanding the costs and options available, you can decide the best type and placement of skylights for your home, ensuring bright and airy spaces you and your family can enjoy.
