That skylight seemed like a brilliant idea when you first installed it, flooding your room with natural light and a touch of the outdoors. But now, whether it's leaking, baking the room in summer heat, or letting in unwanted glare, that once-beloved skylight has become a nuisance. Many homeowners find themselves in this exact predicament, seeking effective solutions to regain control over their indoor environment and alleviate the discomfort and increased energy bills that a problematic skylight can bring.
Covering a skylight isn't just about blocking light; it's about regaining comfort and control. A well-covered skylight can reduce energy costs by preventing heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. It can also protect your furniture and belongings from fading due to harmful UV rays, and provide much-needed relief from harsh glare. Choosing the right covering method ensures you can enjoy the benefits of a skylight when desired, while easily mitigating its drawbacks when necessary.
What are the best methods for covering a skylight, and how do I choose the right one for my needs?
What are the best materials for blocking light from a skylight?
The best materials for blocking light from a skylight are typically those that are opaque, durable, and offer some level of insulation. Options range from blackout fabrics and insulated cellular shades to rigid materials like metal sheets or custom-cut panels of wood or foam board. The ideal choice depends on factors like budget, desired level of light blockage, ease of installation, and aesthetic preferences.
For those seeking a flexible and less permanent solution, blackout fabrics are a popular choice. These fabrics are specifically designed to block light and can be easily cut to size and attached to the skylight frame using methods like Velcro, adhesive strips, or even magnets. Heavier blackout curtains or drapes, when properly fitted and sealed around the edges, can be exceptionally effective. Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, offer excellent light blockage due to their layered construction. The cellular design also provides insulation, helping to regulate the temperature in the room. For a more permanent and complete light-blocking solution, consider using rigid materials. Metal sheets, such as aluminum or steel, offer complete opacity and are highly durable. Wood or foam board panels can be custom-cut to perfectly fit the skylight opening and can be painted or covered with fabric for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. The installation of these materials typically involves screwing or adhering them directly to the skylight frame, so it's crucial to ensure a secure and airtight fit to prevent any light leakage. Consider the potential for condensation buildup with rigid, non-breathable materials. Ventilation may be required.How can I temporarily cover a skylight without damaging it?
To temporarily cover a skylight without causing damage, use a combination of soft, non-abrasive materials and low-tack adhesive methods. The goal is to block light while avoiding scratches, cracks, or sticky residue on the skylight's surface. Consider using blackout fabric or foam board cut to size, secured with painter's tape or removable adhesive putty along the edges.
The best approach will depend on the skylight's material (glass or acrylic), its shape, and how long you intend to keep it covered. For glass skylights, you have a little more leeway, but acrylic is more prone to scratching. Always test any adhesive in an inconspicuous corner first to ensure it doesn't leave a residue or damage the surface. Avoid using harsh adhesives like duct tape or packing tape, as they can be difficult to remove and may leave a sticky mess.
For a more robust temporary solution, consider building a frame from lightweight wood or PVC pipe that sits around the skylight on the interior. This frame can then be covered with blackout fabric or foam board, creating a light-blocking barrier without directly contacting the skylight itself. Ensure the frame is stable and won't accidentally fall and damage the skylight. The key is gentle pressure and avoidance of damaging chemicals or abrasive materials.
What are the options for insulating a skylight covering?
Several options exist for insulating a skylight covering to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, including insulated cellular shades, reflective films, insulating skylight covers (either rigid or inflatable), and strategically placed indoor plants. The best choice depends on your budget, desired level of insulation, and aesthetic preferences.
Insulated cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, are a popular choice because they trap air in their cellular structure, providing a significant barrier against heat transfer. These shades can be custom-fit to your skylight and are available in various colors and opacities. Reflective films are a less expensive option that can be applied directly to the skylight glass to reflect solar radiation. However, they primarily address heat gain in the summer and offer minimal insulation in the winter. Insulating skylight covers, either rigid or inflatable, provide the most effective insulation. Rigid covers are typically made of foam or insulated panels and fit snugly over the skylight, creating an airtight seal. Inflatable covers use air to create an insulating barrier. While offering superior insulation, these can be less visually appealing and may require manual installation and removal. Finally, strategically placed indoor plants around the skylight can offer a small, but beneficial, improvement in insulation by reducing drafts and buffering temperature fluctuations, while also improving air quality and aesthetics.How much does it typically cost to professionally cover a skylight?
The typical cost to professionally cover a skylight ranges from $300 to $1,500, depending on the size of the skylight, the type of covering used (e.g., drywall, insulated panels), the complexity of the job, and local labor rates. This estimate includes materials and labor.
The price variation stems primarily from the method chosen to cover the skylight. A simple drywall patch, intended for permanent closure, is generally the least expensive option, involving cutting and fitting drywall, taping, mudding, and painting. More complex solutions involve creating a framed and insulated "box" over the skylight opening, offering better energy efficiency if the goal is to reduce heat loss or gain. Skylight covers designed to simply block light, while still allowing access to the skylight in the future, can also vary in price depending on their materials (e.g., fabric, metal, wood) and design. Furthermore, accessibility significantly impacts labor costs. Skylights located on high or steep roofs may require specialized equipment or additional safety precautions, increasing the overall price. Obtaining multiple quotes from reputable contractors is recommended to ensure you receive a fair and accurate estimate for your specific situation. Don't forget to inquire about warranties on both materials and workmanship.Can I automate a skylight cover, and if so, how?
Yes, automating a skylight cover is definitely possible and can significantly improve convenience and energy efficiency. This is achieved by installing a motorized system that can open and close a shade, blind, or solid cover over the skylight, often controlled via a remote, smart home integration, or even sensors.
Automating a skylight cover typically involves selecting a compatible motorization kit. These kits usually include a motor, mounting hardware, a power supply (wired or battery-operated), and a control mechanism. The choice of system depends largely on the type of skylight cover you want to automate (e.g., roller shade, Venetian blind, or a solid, hinged cover). Roller shades are a popular option as they are relatively easy to motorize and offer good light control. Solid covers, on the other hand, often require more robust motors and a more complex installation. The installation process involves attaching the motor to the cover mechanism and wiring it to the power source. Depending on the complexity of the system and your DIY skills, professional installation is often recommended, especially for solid covers or when dealing with electrical wiring. Once installed, the system can be programmed to operate using a remote control, wall switch, or integrated into a smart home system for voice control or automated schedules. Some advanced systems even incorporate light sensors that automatically close the cover during peak sunlight hours, helping to regulate indoor temperature and reduce energy consumption.What safety precautions should I take when covering a skylight?
When covering a skylight, your safety is paramount. Always work with a helper, use appropriate fall protection like a safety harness and lanyard anchored to a secure point, and ensure the ladder is stable and properly positioned on a level surface. Furthermore, be aware of weather conditions and avoid working on the roof in wet, windy, or icy conditions.
Working at height presents significant risks, so meticulous planning is essential. Before even considering getting on the roof, inspect your equipment thoroughly. A damaged ladder or frayed safety harness can be catastrophic. Wear appropriate footwear with good traction to minimize the risk of slipping. Clearly define the work area and consider using cones or caution tape to alert others to your presence and prevent accidental interference. Be mindful of power lines or other overhead obstructions that could pose an electrical hazard. Remember that skylights themselves can be fragile. Avoid placing excessive weight directly on the skylight itself; distribute your weight on the roof structure around it. If you are using tools, keep them tethered to prevent them from falling and potentially injuring someone below. Regularly communicate with your helper and take breaks to avoid fatigue, which can impair judgment and increase the likelihood of accidents. After the job is done, inspect your work area to ensure no tools or debris are left behind.What are the fire safety considerations when choosing skylight coverings?
When selecting skylight coverings, prioritize fire-resistant materials and designs that do not impede emergency egress or introduce flammable components into the home. Consider materials with a Class A fire rating, ensuring they resist ignition and the spread of flames, and verify that any covering mechanism allows for quick and easy removal or retraction in case of fire, to maintain the skylight as a potential escape route and ventilation point for firefighters.
Expanding on this, the flammability of skylight coverings is a critical factor. Avoid materials that readily ignite and produce toxic smoke when burned. Natural fabrics like cotton, although aesthetically pleasing, are highly flammable unless treated with flame retardants. Even then, the effectiveness of flame retardants can diminish over time. Synthetic materials vary in their fire resistance, so careful research is crucial. Look for information on the material's fire rating – ideally, a Class A rating indicates the highest level of fire resistance. Furthermore, consider the location of the skylight; those above kitchens or near fireplaces are exposed to higher fire risks. Beyond the material itself, the design and installation of the covering also influence fire safety. Complex or heavy coverings that are difficult to remove or retract can block emergency access. Motorized coverings should have a manual override function to ensure they can be opened even in the event of a power outage. Also, ensure that the installation process does not create fire hazards. For example, improper wiring for motorized coverings can lead to electrical fires. Therefore, always rely on qualified professionals for installation and adhere to local building codes related to fire safety and skylight coverings. Finally, remember that local building codes often dictate specific requirements for fire safety in residential structures, including skylights. Before installing any skylight covering, consult with your local building department or a qualified fire safety expert to ensure compliance and to understand any limitations on materials or designs.And that's all there is to it! Hopefully, you've found this guide helpful in getting your skylight covered and your room back to the perfect level of brightness (or darkness!). Thanks for reading, and be sure to check back soon for more helpful tips and tricks around the house.