How Much Do Skylight Windows Cost?

skylight windows

Having more natural light in our homes makes us feel happier, healthier, and less stressed.

There is no easier way to bring natural light into our homes than with skylight windows. Skylight windows are available in many options and can be installed in just about any room in your home. They come in a range of styles and materials, but how much do they cost?

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Let’s take a look at the varying details and prices of skylight windows as well as the varying factors that influence these costs.

Why Choose a Skylight Window?

A skylight window is a beautiful feature in a home, but they also make for a very functional and practical choice.

By definition, a skylight window is a window installed onto a roof instead of into a wall. Most of them feature a glass installation set into a sturdy aluminum frame. There are a wide variety of options for skylight windows and different reasons that people choose to install them in their homes.

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Some choose a skylight window to allow more natural light into their homes, making a room feel larger and brighter. Others choose them to add ventilation or to improve the heating or cooling requirements of their home. Whatever the reason for installing one, it’s safe to say most people love their skylight windows.

Prices of Skylight Windows

Prices of skylight windows vary according to several different factors. The type of window, size, manufacturer sales prices, and labor costs will affect the cost of a skylight for your home.

Skylight Prices by Type of Window

There are many different types of skylight windows. Each of them has its own functionality as well a different aesthetic appeal. Here is a breakdown of the different types of windows and the costs for each that vary with the type and size of the windows. These prices exclude labor costs.

It’s important to make sure you compare estimates to make sure you are getting a good quality product at the right price.

Fixed skylights cost between $175 and $1,500. These skylights are installed to give extra light to a room, but they do not open. This type of skylight is the one that is most commonly purchased.

Ventilating skylights cost between $300 and $2,700. These windows can be opened up to allow for ventilation, moisture control, and airflow. These skylights are usually opened by motorized or manual hand crank or by remote control. They are most often used in bathrooms and kitchens but are functional in other rooms as well.

Flat-Roof skylights cost between $250 and $2,250. Specially designed for flat-roofed structures, these skylights are carefully sealed. They require extra leak=proofing due to the risk of pooling water and are often installed with a dome cover. These skylights require careful sealing of all the edges where the window frame meets the roof.

Dome skylights cost between $225 and $3,000. Often installed on commercial buildings, the dome shape of these skylights prevents water from pooling on them. They do not open, so they are generally not used where ventilation is needed.

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Different Manufacturer Price Ranges

Each skylight manufacturer has a different range of prices for its products. Their costs depend on the quality of the skylight and the warranties and guarantees they offer. Installation prices are added on top of the sales price of the windows.

Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list—there are many other manufacturers that offer quality skylight windows.

Velux skylights cost between $1,000 and $3,800 with installation included. They are one of the largest manufacturers of skylight windows offering a wide variety of skylights. All of their windows come with a 20-year warranty that covers any damages to the glass and any leaks that may occur.

Fakro skylights cost between $300 and $2,700. They offer vented skylights with electric, solar, and manual controls. These windows are guaranteed: 25 years for the glass and 10 years for leaks.

Pella skylights cost between $150 and $1,800. Pella windows are durable and have excellent insulation properties. They offer all types of windows, not just skylights.

Sun-Tek skylights cost between $225 and $3,000. This company sells its skylights in most big box home improvement stores. They make their skylights out of polycarbonate compounds or acrylic, avoiding glass altogether.

Prices by Size

Prices differences are greatly impacted by the size of the skylight you wish to have installed. In some cases, custom sizes are possible as well, but they may have a heftier price tag attached to them.

  • 16″ x 16″: between $150-$700
  • 16″ x 24″: between $200-$800
  • 16″ x 32″: between $325-$1,000
  • 24″ x 32″: between $300-$1,400
  • 24″ x 48″: between $500-$2,200
  • 24″ x 72″: between $800-$2,800
  • 48″ x 48″: between $1,200-$3,500

Other Skylight Window Cost Factors

There are several cost factors to consider when purchasing a skylight. These are often on top of the labor costs required to install them.

Finishing Options

Skylight windows come with several finishing options. These options each have their own benefits and functions, with many being added during the manufacturing process.

Glazing (cost: $25-$60) is the glass inside of the window, which can be single, double, or triple glazed.

Low E Coating (cost: $100-$300) is an option to improve the durability of the window and UV filtration.

Tinting (cost: $100-$500) reduces direct sunlight exposure and comes in a range from barely noticeable to a dark brown finishing.

Flashing (cost: $250-$500) provides a weatherproofing seal around the edges of the window.

Window Treatments (cost: $50-$400) are window coverings such as blinds or shades that add privacy or block light when required.

Roof Slope and Material 

The cost of your skylight window installation could be affected by the slope of your roof as well as the roof material. There are specific slope requirements for certain windows, and some jobs require additional logistics. As for roof materials, installing a window on a shingled roof is easier than on a metal or tile roof

Types of Glass

There are various types of glass and the choice you make will affect the cost of your skylight. There are some types of glass that have differences in the ease of cleaning, the noise levels, and heating or cooling properties.

Quantity of Windows

The size of your room will be a big factor in how many skylights you decide to install. A larger room may require multiple skylights to ensure ample lighting. A single skylight will be enough in a smaller room.

Installation Costs for Skylight Windows

Costs for the installation of skylight windows will run from $500-$5,000. Your quote will include the installation costs, and they will vary according to several factors.

The size of the window: Generally speaking, the bigger the window the higher the labor cost, although window accessibility and complexity of installation may affect this as well.

Electrical work: If the skylight you order has a remote control or a motorized hand crank, you may need to hire an electrician to complete the work.

Commercial vs residential: For skylights windows, there are prices differences between residential and commercial installations.

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Cost Benefits of Installing a Skylight

There are many benefits to installing a skylight in your home. They are eye-catching features, but there are some practical reasons for them as well.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Skylights can substantially decrease your electrical bills, especially with double or triple-paned glass or an insulating glaze. With skylight windows, your need to use standard lighting and lamps decreases. It’s important that there are no gaps in the insulation that would allow heat to escape or let cold air in since this would negate most cost benefits.

An Increase in the Value of Your Home

There is no doubt that skylights add an attractive addition to any room. They stand out to buyers and may even create added interest in the home. Although it adds excellent curb appeal, the skylight window you choose should reflect the style of your home. An older, historic home may need a different skylight than a newer, open-concept one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Making the decision to add a skylight window to your home is an excellent option for many reasons. But it’s important to have all the facts before you make your purchase.

Should I Consider DIY? 

Skylight installation requires expertise and precision. The risk of error is high especially when it comes to the measuring, installing, and sealing of your skylight window. Putting in your own skylights may be cost-effective, but be aware that one or more errors in installation could mean more expensive repairs in the future.

Is There an Increase in Noise With a Skylight Window?

It’s important to choose the right product. Choosing a less expensive option may leave you with windows that let in more outside noise. If you choose double or triple pane windows, which cost more, outside noise can be reduced by up to 95%.

What Is Skylight Cladding and Is It Worth It?

Skylight cladding offers an extra level of protection, weatherproofing, and insulation for your skylight window. Cladding could save you money in the long run by preventing leaks and weather damage.

How Long Do Skylight Windows Last?

How long a skylight window lasts depends on the brand you choose, the quality of the installation company, and the weather conditions where you live. Some high-quality skylight windows can last for 20-40 years. You may have to replace a lower-quality window sooner than that. A warranty can be useful in fixing issues that lead to a longer-lasting skylight.

How to Find Skylight Windows in My Area

If you are looking to find skylight windows in your area and compare prices, you can simply fill out our window quote form. The information you provide us, including your zip code, will help you find reliable suppliers near you.

Here at 3 Window Estimates, we take pride in giving people access to the best quotes from professionals in your area. Don’t delay! If you are in the market for new or replacement windows, contact us today!

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