Comparison of Tubular Skylights

Tubular Skylight Features

• A basic tubular skylight consists of a clear dome on top of the roof, commonly constructed of acrylic or polycarbonate. Extending from the dome, into the home, is a tube. The tube terminates with a diffuser attached to the room's ceiling. This simple tube design allows natural sunlight to travel down the tube and illuminate an interior space.

Tube Diameter

• Tubular skylights vary in tube diameter. Tube diameter commonly ranges from 10 to 14 inches. In fact, a 14-inch wide tube at noontime will emit the equivalent of five 100-watt light bulbs, reports Replacement Contractor Online. The natural light negates the need to switch on an electrical light, saving energy costs for the homeowner. Smaller-diameter tubes offer less of a light influx, but require minimal installation cuts into the roofing.

Tube Type

• The tube running from the rooftop to the interior ceiling can be rigid or flexible. The tube choice depends upon the home's physical structure. The intended installation area inside the home may have an impedance, such as a ceiling beam. Flexible tubes can snake around obstacles to bring light into the home. In contrast, rigid tubes offer the best light reflectivity since the light does not strike any curves within the tube's design.

Rooftop Dome

• Rooftops are typically slanted for rain and snow to slough off to the ground below. The tube's dome structure can be installed flush to the rooftop's angle. This installation works well with south facing homes, allowing the dome to capture the angled light. Alternatively, the dome can be pitched to sit parallel with the ground, rather than flush with the roof's slant. The pitched dome captures light from any angle, especially for north-facing buildings.