One of the most common questions that worries a homeowner when it comes to skylights is: Are skylights cold in the winter?
Skylights can feel colder than surrounding walls or windows during the winter season, but whether or not they are considered “cold” depends on various factors. Here are a few points to consider:
Heat loss: Skylights, like windows, can allow heat to escape from the interior of a building. Glass is a poor insulator compared to walls, so skylights can contribute to heat loss. However, the actual impact on indoor temperature depends on the design, installation, and insulation of the skylight.
Glazing and insulation: Modern skylights often come with improved glazing options that offer better insulation. Double or triple-glazed skylights with low-emissivity (low-E) coatings can reduce heat transfer and minimize heat loss. Proper insulation around the skylight frame can also help mitigate cold air infiltration.
Sunlight exposure: Skylights can let in sunlight, which can provide some passive solar heating during the day. The amount of solar heat gain depends on the skylight’s orientation, size, and the angle of the sun. However, it’s important to note that the solar heat gain may not be sufficient to offset heat loss through the skylight during colder periods.
Condensation: Cold surfaces, such as skylights, can be prone to condensation when warm, moist air comes into contact with them. Condensation can lead to moisture-related problems, such as mold or mildew. Proper insulation and ventilation are crucial to minimize condensation issues.
To minimize heat loss and potential coldness associated with skylights, you can consider energy-efficient skylights, such as those with low-E coatings and multiple glazing layers. It’s also important to ensure proper installation and insulation around the skylight to reduce air leakage and maintain indoor comfort.
This can be managed by hiring an experienced contractor to deal with your new skylight installation.
Skylights are delicate features that can increase the value of your home significantly when done right, but also lower its quality when not installed properly.
Contact us at RH Renovation NYC if you have a new skylight installation project in mind. Our team has dealt with skylights and roof related issues for years and we have the capacity, knowledge and technology to do a great job and leave all our clients satisfied.
Last but not least, we can provide you with a cost estimate for free before the project starts that will allow you to adjust your budget accordingly and diminish any stress related to finances.
