A skylight is a good option for adding light to any room of your home, especially for a space that doesn't get much natural light. It can also be used to ventilate your home, should you choose one that opens rather than one that is affixed in place. If you are ready to install a skylight in a room of your home, note a few tips for selecting the right one so you know you'll be happy with it for years to come.

1. U-value

The U-value of any building material refers to its insulating factor, and when you choose a skylight, you want one that doesn't allow heat or air conditioning to escape outside throughout the year. This should be your first consideration when opting for a skylight; without a good U-value, it may act as more of an open window, letting in cold or hot air, than just a space for sunlight.

2. Low-e and tinting 

Low-e glass refers to glass that doesn't allow the sun's damaging UV rays to come through. When choosing a skylight, you want low-e glass or some type of tinting that blocks the sun's UV rays while still allowing light in your home. This will protect your home's furnishings, carpet, and the like from fading and other damage that can be caused by excessive exposure to UV rays. This is also important if you're going to be spending a lot of time underneath the skylight, as too much exposure to UV rays can be damaging to your skin.

3. Ventilation

If choosing a skylight to add ventilation to your home, be sure you ask a contractor to place it somewhere where it will be convenient to open and close. If you have an elevated ceiling and put the skylight in the middle of the ceiling, the rod you need to use to open and close it may be out of reach. Putting it on the side of your home's roof so that it's closer to the ground is better. You also want to think about which room might need the most ventilation. If your home feels muggy and warm after cooking, the skylight might be best placed in the kitchen, even if you want more light in the living room. Putting it where the home collects the most condensation and heat will mean the most effective ventilation for your home and, in turn, your home might be more comfortable for you overall.

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