Commercial skylights can transform commercial spaces, improve aesthetics, and even enhance employee productivity, but they must be planned correctly. Here’s what to know before deciding.
Here are some key benefits of commercial skylights:
1. Increased Natural Light
Creates brighter, more inviting spaces and can support employee well-being and productivity.
2. Energy Efficiency
Well-designed skylights can help reduce your reliance on artificial lighting, which can reduce energy costs and electric bills. Energy-efficient skylights, made with high-performance glazing, can help regulate indoor temperatures, keeping the space cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
- The Stats: A 2014 study found that strategically placed skylights can decrease a business’s total energy consumption by up to 14%, and some retail companies have even seen their lighting costs cut in half.
3. Enhanced Aesthetics and Property Value
Adding skylights can increase property value by making the space more desirable. They can elevate your property’s aesthetic appeal.
4. Improved Ventilation and Air Quality
Ventilated skylights (operable skylights) allow fresh air into the building which can improve indoor air quality and reduce humidity.
- The Stats: Automated options can be set to open and close on a schedule or according to temperature, helping maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
Types of Skylights:
1. Fixed Skylights
Sealed skylight, not able to open. For providing light only.
- Ideal for: Warehouses, retail spaces, manufacturing floors, and hallways.
2. Operable Skylights or Vented Skylights
Open for airflow. Manually or automatically controlled.
- Ideal for: Areas prone to heat, humidity, or odors.
3. Security-Enhanced Skylights
Modern commercial skylights now incorporate reinforced frames, impact-resistant domes, and improved water-management systems. Some systems also feature advanced daylight-diffusing inner domes that provide consistent illumination without glare.
- Ideal for: Industrial facilities, essential facilities and buildings with higher security needs
What to Consider Before Installing Commercial Skylights:
1. Roof Structure and Slope
The existing structure and slope of your roof can influence the type, size, and number of skylights suitable for your building. A professional inspection will help determine what’s feasible and identify avoid long-term performance issues.
2. Energy Efficiency Goals
Select skylights with insulated, low-E glazing and proper diffusion to control transfer and maintain year-round comfort. Studies identified by Velux show that daylighting strategies, including commercial skylights, can reduce electric lighting energy use by 20–60% — and in well-designed cases even up to 75% — by cutting reliance on artificial lighting while improving comfort and indoor conditions.
3. Budget and Maintenance
Skylights require upfront investment and ongoing maintenance. Plan for installation costs, cleaning, inspections, and seal upkeep.
3. Weather and Climate Considerations
impact-resistant skylights are essential to withstand heavy rain, snow, or hail in regions prone to severe weather.
Is Adding Skylights to Your Commercial Property Worth It?
Yes, when thoughtfully designed and professionally installed, skylights can significantly improve lighting quality, comfort, aesthetics, and potential energy performance. Careful consideration of the property’s structural requirements, climate, and long-term maintenance is essential to maximize its value.
How Ideal Building Solutions Can Help
Ideal Building Solutions provides commercial skylight installation tailored to your facility’s unique needs. Our team will evaluate roof conditions, support proper system selection, and ensure skylights are installed for durability, performance, and long-term value.
Contact Ideal Building Solutions today to learn more about the advantages of roofing coverboards and how we can help enhance the strength, durability, and resilience of your commercial roofing system. Let’s protect your investment together! For more information, visit www.ibsroofing.com or contact your Ideal Project Manager or Sales Executive.