Skylight Installation: DIY Versus Professionals
Skylights are gaining more popularity among homeowners, especially those who live in areas that get little natural lighting. These structures enable you to make the most of sunlight, ensuring that you remain illuminated throughout the day. They also reduce your electricity consumption because you don’t have to turn lights on more often.
You have two options when it comes to skylight installation – you can do it yourself or hire a professional. It is worth noting that each approach has its pros and cons. This article discusses both to help you make the best decision.
Here are the factors you need consider before starting your project.
Roofs Have Different Designs
It is essential to know the type of roof on your property before investing in a skylight. The two main options are stick-frames roofs and truss-framed roofs. There are so many different skylights banora point, to choose from.
Roofs with stick frames are better suited for skylights because they are more spacious. Although you can fit a skylight into a truss-framed roof, it will be so small that it won’t provide adequate lighting.
Regarding shape, sloped roofs are better than flat ones, as the provide a larger angle. The complexity of roof types gives professionals a significant advantage over DIY enthusiasts.
Building Codes
You need to be familiar with local building codes before you begin any construction projects. These are often complex and require experience to interpret, another reason it is better to hire a professional. You don’t want your building to be demolished after you spend lots of money and the construction itself.
Possible Accidents
Imagine falling from your roof, particularly if you have story building. It would be nothing short of a disaster and you can get severe injuries. This is why you need to confirm that you have the right-sized equipment before you start working. Again, this is another factor while professional installers are the better choice.
Most homeowners don’t have the proper equipment for installing skylights. Moreover, only a few have the experience required to work safely at such great heights.
You Can Use Different Materials
Despite being the most popular choice, glass isn’t the only material used in skylight installation. Plastic is an excellent alternative, particularly if you are on a budget.
Glass is more expensive, as it’s clear, longer lasting and more resistant to scratching than plastic. For this reason, it is wise to hire a professional when installing a glass skylight.
On the other hand, plastic is cheaper and less brittle than glass. However, it is more susceptible to scratching and discoloration. This is why many homeowners take the DIY approach when installing plastic glazing.
Positioning
Positioning is a vital consideration when installing a tubular skylight. The room must be located under the roof, like an attic or your guest room. While this seems like a straightforward process, it takes an expert eye to ensure that the roof has the right design for optimal sunlight reception.
Keep in mind that every model has a preset ideal sloping requirement. That said, the figure usually ranges around a 15-degree angle.
Improper Installation
Skylights are a costly investment that can serve you for many years, particularly if you take proper care of them. However, the maintenance will be meaningless if the installation itself was poor. Even if it costs additional money, hiring a pro is the better choice to ensuring the installation is done properly.
Conclusion
As seen, hiring a professional has several advantages over choosing the DIY approach. From guaranteeing compliance with local building codes to ensuring that you avoid possible accidents, enlisting the services of experienced providers is our recommended solution to your skylight installation project. The only advantage of DIY is that it saves you some money.
Remember to research extensively before hiring a specific company. You can do this by reading online reviews or by asking for recommendations from previous clients, family and friends.
