What’s the Difference Between a Sky Window and a Roof Window?

The terms “sky window” and “roof window” might sound distinct, but in reality, they refer to the same architectural feature. The variance in terminology is purely a matter of personal or regional preference. Both serve the primary function of allowing natural light to flood into a space from above, enhancing illumination and offering potential ventilation. Whether you call it a sky window or a roof window, the objective remains consistent: to brighten interiors and improve airflow.

Is a Sky Roof Window the Same as a Skylight?

While the terms “sky roof window” and “skylight” are often used interchangeably, they refer to similar concepts with slight distinctions. Both are designed to introduce natural light into a space from above. However, a sky roof window typically implies an operable feature, often one that can be opened or closed for ventilation, whereas a skylight might be fixed and solely for illumination. Regardless of the term, both serve the purpose of enhancing a room’s brightness, atmosphere, and potential for passive solar heating.

Sky Window Installation for the Perfect Skylight

A ventilating skylight on the roof.
A sky roof window typically implies an operable feature, often one that can be opened or closed for ventilation, whereas a skylight might be fixed and solely for illumination.

Do you find your home a little gloomy? Consider a sky window installation in areas in your house that are low on natural light. Roof windows allow more light to enter your house than sidewall windows. Below are the things you need to know before installing one in your home.

  1. Skylights are not fit for all types of roofs: Since skylights need to be installed at the roofline underneath the roof sheathing and shingles, the roof construction must be able to support the skylight. Framing of roofs are usually:
  2. Truss-framed roofs: These types of frames are prefabricated triangular units and are not meant to be cut after installation since it can compromise the structural integrity of the room, making it less ideal for a sky window add on.
  3. Stick-framed roofs: These types of framing are better suited for a roof window since they usually leave enough room to cut and fit a skylight between its individual rafters. But you still need to consider the slope of the roof since this will help divert rainwater and other debris off the skylight.
  4. Skylight glazing: A sky window has a metal, wood, or vinyl frame, which holds a glazing – a piece that transmits light. It can either be made of glass or plastic.
  5. Glass glazing: is double the weight and is approximately 25% to five times more expensive than plastic and is your best bet. It’s scratch and impact resistant proof and has the capacity to block out more UV rays. It can also be customised and comes in different shapes and unlike plastic, glass glazing offers two insulating options:
  • An interceding layer of argon gas between the two panes to help retain indoor heat during the winter, release heat off during the summer months, and block off almost all UV rays.
  • An invisible layer of metal oxide on the inner glass pane called low-emissivity (low-E) coating.
  1. Plastic glazing: comes in acrylic and polycarbonate varieties, plastic glazing is a cheaper version and is less likely to break compared to glass glazing. But it scratches easily and discoloration is likely to occur. It also blocks little to no UV light, and usually comes in standard shapes and sizes only.

Skylight Roof Window Ideas for Your Home

There are many ways on how you can incorporate a skylight roof window in your homes. Living rooms are the most popular choice because a roof window really helps elevate the design of your living space. The bathroom is also a perfect pace to install a roof window especially if you have a dark bathtub alcove.

There are a wide variety of skylight designs to choose from – some have tints to block UV rays, blinds to control the amount of light you want to enter the room, and some even offer special insulation for that added protection during the cold winter months.

Skylights Make Awesome Loft Roof Windows

Introducing skylights into a loft setting can revolutionize the ambiance of the space. These loft roof windows play a transformative role, instantly brightening and enlarging the appearance of an otherwise confined attic area. By allowing a flood of natural light, skylights turn what might have been a dark and stuffy space into a lively, breathable, and inviting room, redefining the potential of attic areas.

Benefits of a Sky Light Window for Lighting and Ambience

We can’t tell you enough of all the benefits a skylight window brings into your home. There’s nothing like natural light to make you feel energized and ready for the day, having dinner under the stars or enjoying a cool breeze on warmer days. It’s also the missing puzzle piece that will complete the design of your home.