clare.bratina, Author at Skylights WA

How Does a Whole House Fan Work?

What Does it Cost to Install a Skylight?

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.26.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] We spend up to 85% of our time indoors and we all deserve to feel happy and energised in the spaces where we live and work. Skylights add a flood of beautiful natural daylight to your home, making it feel brighter and bigger. Beyond the benefits to our health and mood, skylights enhance energy efficiency and the general functionality of the home. At Skylights WA, we install Solatube Skylights, Velux Roof Windows, and Belle Architectural Roof Windows. With us, you can have the skylight of your dreams for any home or business in Perth and South West WA. Are you in love with skylights, and interested in getting them installed in your home? Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty – pricing. Read on for our skylight pricing guide and more information about the options. For personalised advice, contact our team at Skylights WA today. Skylight Pricing Information Guide In Australia, skylights are available in a wide range of designs, shapes and sizes – and prices tailored to these options.The below guide offers a range of pricing estimates, generally inclusive of installation costs. Fixed Skylights – Between $3000 and $5000 prices are higher for installation in pitched roofs Vented Skylights – Between $4000 and $8000; prices vary for manual, electric or solar options Tubular Skylights – Between $800 to $3000 Custom Roof Windows – Prices often start at $3500 Different Types of Skylights and Their Functions Deciding you want a skylight is just the first step. With a vast range of skylights, each type can offer different benefits for your home. Whether you want to explore styles or have specific functionality needs, we’ll explore the differences in skylights here. Fixed Skylights A fixed skylight offers your home a great way to bring in inviting light and also give a Feature to your space. A fixed skylight is a solid window pane cut into your ceiling. This window cannot be adjusted or opened in any way, hence its fixed name. A fixed skylight can open your home with natural lighting and captivating views. Take in the drifting clouds and charming starlight with this skylight. These are a cost-effective way of transforming your home and can be installed on flat and pitched roofs. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http://skylights.yomconnect.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Fixed-vs-Ventilated-Skylights-1.jpg” alt=”Fixed vs Ventilated Skylights” title_text=”Fixed vs Ventilated Skylights” admin_label=”Image” _builder_version=”4.26.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.26.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Tubular Skylights A tubular skylight is a window pane placed in the ceiling, connected to a dome on the roof by a tube. The tube reflects the light captured by the dome and diffuses it into the room below. These skylights are quicker and easier to install than other options, letting more light into the room with its concentrated rays. By capturing and diffusing the light, you can have a reliable source of natural light all day long. Likewise, with this style of skylight, there is less chance for leakage or structural issues to develop over time. Though this is a great way of lighting your home, it doesn’t offer the same views a traditional skylight can. Whether or not this skylight is for you, depends on your needs and home goals. If you’re searching for a way to brighten your home with natural lighting this is an ideal choice. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https://www.skylightswa.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Case-Study-4-Econo-400-removed-290DS-installed-in-its-place-900x.jpg” alt=”Solatube Brighten Up Series” title_text=”Solatube Brighten Up Series” _builder_version=”4.26.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.26.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Roof Windows A roof window is very similar to a fixed skylight. It functions as a clear or glazed window placed into the ceiling, to allow natural light into the home and beautiful views. A roof window differs from a fixed skylight with its additional features. A roof window can be opened, either from the top or side depending on the design of your choice. This makes it the perfect addition to an attic or low-ceiling room. As long as you can reach the window, you can open it up to invite a refreshing breeze into your home. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http://skylights.yomconnect.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/fixed-skylight-1.png” title_text=”Velux Roof Windows can be installed by Skylights WA anywhere in Perth, Peel, Bunbury and the South West” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″ alt=”Velux Roof Windows can be installed by Skylights WA anywhere in Perth, Peel, Bunbury and the South West”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.26.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Vented Skylight (Manual) A vented skylight is similar to a roof window skylight. Acting as a window fixed into the ceiling, it opens from the bottom and lifts upwards. This window is then held up and open by a chain. Opening your vented skylight releases hot air that has built up and brings in fresh air. This is a great way to ventilate and improve the air circulation in your home. If you struggle with stuffy and humid rooms, this can make your home a more comfortable place. To manually open your vented skylight you turn the handle and lift the window. If your manual vented skylight is not within reach, it will most likely come with a rod that you can use to open and close it. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http://skylights.yomconnect.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/VELUX-VCM-MANUAL-SKYLIGHT.png” alt=”VELUX VCM MANUAL SKYLIGHT” title_text=”VELUX-VCM-MANUAL-SKYLIGHT” _builder_version=”4.26.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.26.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Vented Skylight (Electric) An electric-vented skylight is a convenient way to keep your home comfortable. With the push of a button, you can open and close your skylight with ease. This allows you to have greater control over your home environment and enjoy fresh air whenever you want. Many electric-vented skylights also come with additional features that can make them worthwhile. If you deal with a lot of rainy weather, consider implementing a rain sensor so that your skylight can close without input. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http://skylights.yomconnect.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/velux-electric-vented-skylight-bathroom-.png” alt=”velux-electric-vented-skylight-bathroom” title_text=”velux-electric-vented-skylight-bathroom” _builder_version=”4.26.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.26.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”] Vented Skylight (Solar) A solar-powered vented skylight can make managing your skylight even easier. With small solar panels placed on the skylight, there is no

How Does Roof Ventilation Work?

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] Did you know that hot air and moisture can build up in your roof space? External heat enters your home through windows, doors, and the overall structure. This means the air in your house becomes hot. When this heat becomes trapped, which particularly happens in the roof area, the temperature of your home can become less comfortable, especially in certain climates. What’s more, if moisture from humidity and dampness from appliances, such as dishwashers and showers, have nowhere to go and settle within your roof, it may create issues such as mould. This has the potential to lead to increased structural and health risks. So, how do you fix these issues? Roof ventilation can be a great solution. Find out more about roof ventilation, the different options available, and how Skylights WA can help. What is The Purpose of Roof Ventilators? Roof ventilation aims to remove the hot air that gets trapped in your roof space. This can be done in various ways and depends on the type of ventilation that is installed. When the airflow improves, the temperature typically reduces, and the moisture has less chance of building up. During cooler periods, roof ventilation still helps to regulate the temperature. Rather than continuing to pull hot air out to reduce the temperature, some options stop ventilating so that your home can be cosier. How Do Roof Vents Work? There are several different ways to ventilate your roof area. Essentially, roof ventilation options promote airflow in a manner that keeps unwanted elements, such as debris and rain, from entering the roof. Different types utilise different approaches to ventilation. This can be based on methods such as changes in air pressure or creating a suction-like effect. The system may involve different equipment, such as exhaust, ridge, intake or static vents, or wind turbines. Three Different Methods to Ventilate Your Roof Roof ventilation comes in different styles and designs. From vents to fans, from sun-powered to wind-powered, there are many options to choose from so that you can find the right type for your house. Some options for roof ventilation include: 1. Solar Roof Ventilation This type of roof ventilation utilises a method that promotes airflow using solar energy. This option often involves a thermostat to regulate the internal temperature by adjusting or shutting off the ventilation according to your preferences. We have a great range of solar roof ventilation options. We can assess your roof and determine which is best for you. Our experienced team will carry out a comprehensive installation and can help with maintenance in the long term. Please call to discuss any questions you have about solar roof ventilation. 2. Wind-Powered Ventilation Roof ventilation that uses the wind typically involves a cylindrical turbine. The moving air enters and as the pressure differs inside the vent, it begins to spin. This generates the power that supports the ventilation, meaning there are no running costs. Whirlybirds are one type of wind-powered ventilation that is commonly used for houses. They can be a cheaper option but may be damaged quite easily due to bad weather or falling debris. 3. Electrical Roof Ventilation As the name suggests, this option utilises electricity to ventilate your house. The ventilation powered this way may involve different methods, such as vents or mounted motor-run fans. This option involves the ongoing costs of electricity but avoids the potential risk of not functioning properly due to a reliance on uncontrollable elements, namely, the solar energy and the wind. Considerations For Roof Ventilation Choosing the most suitable type of roof ventilation for you can come down to various factors such as your preferences, budget, and goals. Other aspects revolve around your type of house and roof. Some roofs will offer better ventilation options than others. When we assess your house and recommend what type of ventilation may suit you, we consider: Roof Structure This involves factors such as what the roof is made up of and its thermal properties. The size and pitch of the roof are also pivotal in the ventilation decision, as well as the roof cavity’s volume. Insulation Whether you already have insulation or are thinking of putting some in, this affects the decision of which roof ventilation to go with as it typically helps to reduce the build-up of hot air. Roof Sarking Sarking is a layer that is placed underneath roofing tiles. It aims to increase the positive effects of insulation by adding more protection against external heat. It may have a negative effect on roof ventilation because the air may get trapped, so if sarking is present, it needs to be assessed. Discuss Which Roof Ventilators Are Effective With Skylights WA We look forward to supporting you with your roof ventilation options. We can carry out a thorough, free assessment and provide a fixed quote. If you have any questions or would like to organise your free consultation, please contact our friendly team. GET A FIXED QUOTE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Whirlybird vs Solar Roof Ventilation: Which is Right For You?

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.25.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″] Are you looking for a way to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient? There are various types of roof ventilation. Fundamentally, this feature helps to regulate temperature and humidity. If hot air stays trapped in the roof space, the overall temperature of your house can be high. On the other hand, if the hot air has somewhere to go, namely outside through roof ventilation, the house will likely feel more comfortable. Not only can roof ventilation help your home be more liveable, but it can reduce the moisture content in the roof space. This can improve the area’s longevity, reducing issues such as mould damage. If you are interested in roof ventilation, the next question is: which type is right for you? Skylights WA can help you decide between solar roof ventilation vs whirlybird ventilation and can carry out comprehensive and reliable installation. What is Solar Powered Roof Ventilation? Solar ventilation is powered by solar energy. It aims to keep the area within the roof cool and free of dampness by regulating the airflow. Some options are designed to include a thermostat that monitors the internal temperature and adjusts according to the current climate and your preferences. Solar roof ventilation installation is generally a simple and quick process. When we install solar ventilation, we assess your roof’s pitch and type and follow the necessary procedures accordingly. This includes ensuring no water can enter your roof space using water tight flashings. Our team is highly experienced in carrying out the installation and can discuss any questions you may have. Is Solar Roof Ventilation Right For My Home? Homes and personal preferences can differ greatly, so choosing what type of roof ventilation will suit your home best requires some consideration. To help you out, here are some advantages and disadvantages of solar roof ventilation: 4 Advantages of Solar Roof Ventilation Solar roof ventilation has several advantages that may make it perfect for your home. Five benefits of solar roof ventilation are that it: Functions without wind, meaning that even if there is not much movement around, you do not have to worry about reduced ventilation. Moves the hot air out of the roof space even if there is no heat convection. Has the potential of removing up to five to ten times the amount of hot air than whirlybirds. Does not let the warm air out during winter! With the built-in thermostat, it registers when it should stop ventilating to retain the cosiness you want in your wintery home. 5 Disadvantages of Solar Roof Ventilation As with most things, some features of solar roof ventilation may not suit your situation. Five aspects of solar roof ventilation that may present as disadvantages are because they: Might not work at night, depending on the type you have installed. If this is an issue for you, we can develop a system that is hybrid which is powered by house electricity to allow it to continue its work throughout the night. Rely on a certain amount of sun UV, which might not be a regular occurrence where you live. But like the solution to night-time requirements, there may be suitable options to cover this. Can be more expensive when purchasing than a whirlybird. This may be a deterrent at first, but due to the increased function capabilities of solar ventilation, this may not be such an issue in the long run. May not suit your aesthetic preferences depending on the design as they can be quite prominent on some roofs. Could be damaged due to factors such as falling branches and hail, which could affect its longevity and function. Our products are high quality and durable, reducing the risk of long-term issues, and we can carry out repairs and maintenance when required. What is Whirlybird Ventilation? Whirlybirds are turbine-like, dome-shaped vents that attach to the surface of your roof. They are powered by the wind, which makes internal elements spin when the pressure inside and outside of the vent differs. This action moves hot air and moisture out of the roof space due to a suction-like effect. 4 Advantages of a Whirlybird There are benefits of whirlybirds that mean they may work well for you. Five advantages of a whirlybird are that they: Are small to medium-sized products, meaning they may not be too obvious on your roof. Come in different colours, so you can choose which suits your aesthetics best. Work day and night because they do not rely on the sun. Are typically cheaper to purchase than solar ventilation. 5 Disadvantages of a Whirlybird Five aspects of a whirlybird that might be disadvantageous in your property are that they: Rely on the presence of wind or a breeze to work, which is often not a regular factor in many locations. Are not flat like solar panels, adding a feature to your roof that might not suit your aesthetic. Cannot be stopped when the temperature drops, for example at night or during the winter. Often collect debris, such as leaves and dirt, and can be damaged by factors such as bad weather, meaning maintenance and repairs may become an issue. Have the potential to be quite noisy when there is a lot of wind. Find The Right Type of Roof Ventilation For Your Property at Skylights WA Roof ventilation is an important feature to consider installing in your home. Depending on your budget, where you live, and what your aesthetic and maintenance preferences are, solar roof ventilation or a whirlybird may work well for you. We have great roof ventilation options and look forward to discussing your requirements and goals with you. If you are interested in high-quality solar ventilation products and installation, please contact our friendly team today! GET A FIXED QUOTE [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Your Guide to Sun Tunnel Skylights

Sometimes, traditional skylights just aren’t an option. If a room’s ceiling doesn’t have direct access to the roof, or if there are obstacles in the way, then it may feel like the joys of natural lighting simply can’t happen for you. Sun tunnels, however, could provide the exact solution you’ve been waiting for. Continuing reading as we explain how sun tunnels work and how they could bring sunlight into even the darkest corners of your home! For personalised advice, contact our team at Skylights WA today. First Things First: What is a Sun Tunnel Skylight? The first question is obvious – what, exactly, is a sun tunnel skylight? We’ll put things as simply as we can. Essentially, a sun tunnel is a penetration in your roof that brings natural light into your home, just like any other skylight. The key difference is that they don’t actually need direct sunlight to bring natural lighting into your home. Even for rooms on the first floor of a multi-story home, sun tunnels have the capacity to transfer gorgeous natural lighting right into any space. The multiple designs of sun tunnels are the key to making this happen. Rigid sun tunnels work the same way as a traditional skylight, acting as a direct channel when sunlight has a straight path to the room in question. Flexible tunnel designs, however, can offer the same natural lighting even when there are obstructions in the way of the space. In homes where a regular skylight wouldn’t be possible, a sun tunnel could be the solution. How a Sun Tunnel Skylight Works Understanding a sun tunnel skylight all boils down to science. By using reflective mirrors, light is about to be captured and transferred into the home without necessarily requiring a direct pathway. A sun tunnel utilises an acrylic dome to first capture sunlight, magnify it, and send it into the light diffuser that then spreads it throughout the room. Think of the tube as one big mirror, channeling all that outside light all the way down without losing any of it. The end result may not be as intense or strong as direct sunlight, but it is still able to be spread across any dark room in your home to brighten it up. Soft, even, and pleasant natural lighting could be all yours with a sun tunnel skylight. Quick and Easy Installation Explaining it all can make it sound more complicated than it really is. You might be surprised to hear that installing a sun tunnel skylight is relatively simple! Only one or two professionals are needed, and the process involves just a few clear steps. First, a roofing contractor will need to cut a hole into the roof outside your home, and another hole in your inside ceiling. Then the sun tunnel, either flexible or rigid, is inserted to connect the two holes and create a pathway for sunlight. Shockingly quick and easy! The end product will look like a mounted circle on the ceiling. The entire installation process will take just a few hours to complete, and you’ll be left with a sleek-looking diffuser that will enhance the aesthetics of your home with soft, natural lighting. No harsh shadows or unwanted glares to be seen! Suddenly, any room in your home can be completely transformed with the pleasant beauty of natural sunlight. Light Comparison – Traditional Skylights vs Sun Tunnels Now, sun tunnels and regular skylights are different. When a skylight is directly mounted to your roof, it acts as a direct window, providing plenty of light. The process for a sun tunnel to light up a room is a little more involved, needing the acrylic dome to collect and transfer light through the tunnel, and it creates a different end result. Ultimately, as they aren’t a direct window to the sky, a sun tunnel is going to let in less light compared to a traditional skylight design. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean you’re going to be lacking in natural light. There is still plenty of sunlight that a sun tunnel can transfer and let into your home! These designs are particularly impactful for dark rooms in your house that aren’t going to receive any natural light due to their position in the layout of your house. These could include: Hallways Bathrooms Showers Kitchens Spacious closets Laundries Utility rooms Contact Skylights WA to Find Out What Design is Best For Your Home Choosing the right design for your property isn’t easy. At the end of the day, you can rest assured knowing that there are experts readily available to help you make the right choice. Here at Skylights WA, we take pride in the countless clients we’ve helped to enhance the aesthetics and function of their homes with the perfect skylight. Reach out to our friendly team today to talk through traditional designs, sun tunnels, and what’s going to work best for your home or business! CONTACT SKYLIGHTS WA

Your Guide to Sun Tunnel Skylights

Can Velux Skylight Glass Be Replaced?

Can Solatube Be Installed On The First Floor?

Do you have a multi-storey home? How about one that doesn’t see much natural light during the day? If one or both of these apply to you, you may have wondered if it’s possible to get more natural light on your first floor. Traditionally when you think of skylights you think of them being installed on the roof of a home, so wouldn’t that mean the first floor is off the cards? Not necessarily! This article explores whether Solatube skylights can be installed on the first floor of a home or business. For personalised advice, contact our team at Skylights WA today. What Is Solatube? Solatube is a brand of solar tubes, which are light fixtures that utilise the power of the sun. The end result is similar to that of skylights— a lighter and brighter area— but the way they go about this is through a tube rather than directly. How Does Solatube Work? A solar tube is a hollow cylinder made from reflective material. It acts like a mirror to capture sunlight that comes in through an acrylic dome in the ceiling and reflects it onto the interior of the tube. It then reaches the interior of the home or building to provide evenly distributed light to areas that may not have seen much sunlight before. Can Solatube Be Installed On The First Floor? As Solatube depends on the natural light from the sun to increase the brightness of a room, it seems to make sense to most people that it can only be installed on the top floor. However, you can have a light and sun-filled room on the first floor thanks to Solatube’s technology. As a solar tube is essentially a tube that carries solar energy such as light from place to place, this doesn’t have to be as straightforward as a direct line from Point A to Point B. The use of a tube means that you can direct the sunlight to where you want and need it, even in rooms not on the top floor. Installing Solatube on the first floor is certainly a possibility. This means that the tube will need to pass from the roof, through the upper floor, and into the first floor. However, this doesn’t mean you’ll have a view of a tube running through your living areas! You won’t need to navigate around it as it’s as simple as installing the tubing somewhere inconspicuous, such as through a closet or existing chase. You could also install Solatube to run along a corner of two walls, and enclose that area with drywall so that nobody is none the wiser. Solatube is not designed to run through walls. For longer distances a Solatube 290 DS may be the best option. Solatube allows you to see natural light on the first floor of your home due to its tube technology. Skylights, on the other hand, can’t bring light to the first floor as they don’t use a tube and can only be installed exactly where you want the natural light to shine. Will Solatube Work For Your Home? There is no minimum distance a Solatube needs to be, but there are maximum limits. Depending on the system you choose, you can have a Solatube between six and 12 metres long. This is important to keep in mind when considering having Solatube installed on the first floor. Considering Solatube For Your Home? It is certainly possible to have Solatube installed on the first floor to make it as light-filled as you always wished it were. At Skylights WA we can help your home become your light and bright sanctuary, including for your first floor! To get started on your Solatube journey, contact us for a free consultation. REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

Can Skylights Withstand Hail?

When the clouds overhead dip below freezing, icy hail forms and can come hurtling from the sky. While hailstorms can leave a Perth backyard looking like it’s snowed in our sunny city, they can also be dangerous. For anybody who has skylights in their home, hail on the weather forecast can have you concerned. But just how concerned should you be, if it all? This article explains whether or not skylights can withstand hail, and what factors can influence this. For personalised advice, contact our team at Skylights WA today. Factors That Influence Whether Your Skylights Can Withstand Hail Skylights can be vulnerable to hail damage, and some more so than others. When it comes to plastic domes, some of the main factors that influence how well they may hold up to hail are: 1. The Material Used Skylights made from high-impact acrylic with UV stabilisers tend to fare best as they’re made from the most versatile plastic. This plastic is ideal for skylights. This is because depending on the thickness of the wall, these skylights can withstand a substantial impact such as hail. Additionally, the UV stabilisers help to prevent harmful UV rays to cause material to fade and become less effective. 2. Their Size And Shape A smaller dome with a continuing curved surface is more likely to survive if debris hits it at a direct perpendicular angle. 3. The Manufacturing Process The manufacturing process plays a large part in the strength of a dome skylight. This is done in two parts: Vacuum forming— A heated, stretched, flat piece of plastic creates a dome shape. Injection moulding— Injecting melted plastic into a mould. The mould is then cooled which allows it to form the dome shape. This is usually used for smaller skylights as it can be more expensive. 4. The Framing While skylights can be made from plastic or tempered glass, the framing can be made from metal, aluminium, PVC, wood, vinyl, or a combination of these. Types Of Skylight Framing 1. Metal Frames Metal frames for skylights may be cosmetically dented by hail which can reduce its lifespan, so it’s important to protect your skylights with metal frames. This can involve covering your skylights with a tarp, wooden boards, or blankets when hail is predicted. 2. Aluminium Frames Aluminium is one of the least expensive materials for framing skylights and is also a great conductor of energy. This means it can transfer heat quickly from warm and humid outdoor conditions to cool conditions indoors, or the other way around. As this can cause condensation to form, aluminium frames generally aren’t recommended for areas with high humidity. 3. PVC Frames Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC frames have a bronze cap on the exterior to shield from UV radiation. These are more susceptible to damage from hailstones, especially as the framing ages. Insurance Insurance may assist with calming any anxieties you may have regarding skylights and hailstorms. Using certain materials may even qualify you for a discount on your insurance, depending on your provider and other factors. If you’re concerned about your skylights and their ability to withstand hail, you may want to speak with your insurance provider. You may also want to consider skylight hail protection such as a skylight safety screen that offer additional impact resistance. Interested In Skylights? Skylights are a great way to bring natural light into your home and help you make the most of your home’s surroundings. If you’re considering skylights for your home, Skylights WA is the team to call. A WA family business since 2009, we offer natural daylight solutions to help you experience brightness without fear of hailstorms. To get started with skylights, contact our professional team today. REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

How To Know When To Replace A Skylight

Skylights are a gorgeous home feature, with a wide variety of benefits to be enjoyed. If you have a skylight in your home, then it’s only fair that you want it to be functioning to its fullest capacity. After all, a damaged or worn down skylight can cause issues in the long run, demanding financial repairs and even risking damage to your property. So, what are the signs that you may need to replace your skylight? Here are just a few of the common reasons many people will choose to get a new skylight installed. This blog explains some of the reasons people may need to replace their old skylight. For personalised replacement advice, contact our team at Skylights WA today. Noticeable Leaks Unsurprisingly, if you start to notice leaks coming from your skylight, there’s a problem. The placement of a skylight means it is exposed to a number of factors and elements that can wear it down, such as extreme heat, cold, wind, and rain. As these conditions cause the skylight to expand and contract, it will become susceptible to leaks over time. If your skylight is leaking, a replacement should be swift, as expensive water damage can quickly be done to your home. If you notice water dripping beneath the skylight, discolouration and stains along your walls, or even mould building up, then it’s important to get your skylight examined as soon as possible. Condensation Your location and its surrounding climate will play a role in whether you experience condensation build up on your skylight. For many people, it’s a relatively normal occurrence. If your property is prone to experiencing significant differences between outdoor and indoor temperatures, then your skylight glass is highly like to have condensation appear at some point or another. However, if condensation isn’t quick to subside on its own, it may pose a larger problem. Noticing condensation pooling, leaking, or dripping, is a good sign that you may need to get your skylight inspected, and a replacement could potentially be the solution. Cracks and Obvious Damage This one needs little to no explanation. Cracks in a skylight aren’t good. When you can visibly see damage to your skylight, you’ve got a clear sign that a replacement is likely in order. On top of being unsightly, however, there are a number of issues that can come from even relatively small cracks. While small incidents can cause chips or cracks, such as wild weather or falling branches, it’s even easier for these cracks to expand in time. The longer you leave them, the more likely they are to grow, and soon enough you’ll be left with a skylight that can’t function properly. Some cracks, however, are too small for the eye to see initially. Regular inspection by a skylight professional is the best way to ensure your skylights aren’t cracked. However, if it is, there’s a good chance a replacement is the best move forward. The Heat and Cold Are Getting in One of the biggest benefits of a skylight, aside from its stellar views, is its ability to help insulate a home. By keeping out the heat and the cold, a skylight is able to limit your reliance on air-conditioning and heater units, saving significant money on your power bills over time. It’s just one of the many things to enjoy about your skylight! As they get older, however, they can start to lose their effectiveness in this regard. If you’ve had your skylight for a while, you might start to notice that its protection from outside weather is weakening as years go by. It begins to let heat and cold get it, and suddenly you’re back to using the AC during hot summer days. Unsurprisingly, this can increase your cost of bills with time, as your indoor appliances are working harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. In this scenario, you can get a professional to inspect for heat transfer, or else you yourself can carefully check for airflow leaks by holding up your hand a short distance from the skylight. If the area directly in front feels warmer or colder than the rest of the room, chances are it might be time for a skylight replacement. Also read: Will a Skylight Make My House Warmer? Roof Renovations In some cases, you might find yourself needing to replace a skylight that is functioning perfectly fine. If you’re building a new roof, then working around an existing skylight can be an unnecessary, drawn-out process. It’s rather expensive, too – building a new roof around old skylights, then subsequently having to replace both the skylights and the broader roof structure. As attached as you may be to your skylight, the smartest and most cost-efficient option in the long run is to install a new skylight altogether while the roof is being built. This is convenient for builders and saves time on the project. On top of that, it saves you the cost of needing to rebuild the roof a second time further down the line. In this scenario, you don’t abide by an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” attitude. Think long-term and invest in your property by replacing a skylight at the same time as replacing your roof. Contact Skylights WA for Replacement Advice Long story short, you deserve a skylight that is functioning at its best. If you have any concerns or reasons to believe you may need a skylight replacement, the Skylights WA team is ready to help. Contact us to chat with a friendly team member, and we can discuss the specifics of your situation and get you on track for a successful replacement as needed. Reach out today – we look forward to lending a hand however we can! CONTACT SKYLIGHTS WA

Author: clare.bratina

Perth

Bunbury