Solatube vs. Skylight: The Benefits of Installing Solatubes in Your Home
A Bright Alternative to Traditional Skylights
If you love the idea of bringing more natural light into your home but worry about the size, cost, or complexity of skylights — Solatubes offer an innovative, energy-efficient solution. Also known as tubular skylights, Solatubes deliver powerful daylight using a compact, highly reflective tube that channels sunlight from your roof into interior spaces. Let’s explore why Solatubes are gaining popularity and how they compare to traditional skylights.
Energy Efficiency & Performance: Solatube’s Smart Daylighting Advantage
Maximum Light with Minimal Heat Transfer:
Solatubes use advanced optics and highly reflective tubing to deliver bright, consistent daylight — without the thermal heat gain that skylights can bring. This means you get natural light without increasing your cooling bills.
Smaller Footprint, Big Impact:
Because Solatubes require only a small roof penetration (typically under 14"), they’re easier to install, especially in spaces where a full skylight isn’t feasible.
Compared to Skylights:
Solatubes often outperform traditional skylights in darker or lower-level rooms.
They provide light throughout the day, even during overcast conditions.
Unlike skylights, Solatubes don’t require structural changes or extensive framing.
Fun Fact: Solatubes can reduce the need for electric lighting by up to 80% in interior rooms like bathrooms, hallways, and closets.
Design Flexibility: Light Where You Need It Most
Ideal for Tight or Windowless Areas:
Solatubes are perfect for small, dark rooms where traditional windows or skylights aren’t an option — such as closets, bathrooms, pantries, and hallways.
Customizable Features:
Many Solatube systems include diffusers, dimmers, and even LED nightlight kits, allowing you to customize the lighting experience throughout the day and night.
Compared to Skylights:
Skylights are best for large, open ceilings.
Solatubes can reach interior rooms with no direct roof access overhead.
Skylights may alter the room’s architecture; Solatubes blend in.
Pro Tip: Choose frosted or patterned diffusers to soften light and eliminate glare in reflective or glossy spaces.
Maintenance & Installation: Less Hassle, More Value
Quick Installation:
Solatubes can typically be installed in under two hours, with no major renovations or drywall work required.
Virtually Maintenance-Free:
Their sealed design prevents leaks and debris, eliminating the most common issues associated with skylights.
Compared to Skylights:
Skylights require regular cleaning, inspection, and often resealing.
Solatubes’ low-maintenance system is ideal for busy homeowners.
Quick Tip: Many Solatubes come with integrated UV protection to preserve interior materials and finishes.
Choosing the Right Daylighting Solution for Your Home
Both skylights and Solatubes offer the beauty and benefits of natural light — but if you're looking for a cost-effective, low-maintenance, and highly efficient option, Solatubes may be the perfect solution. They’re ideal for brightening small, enclosed spaces without the expense or hassle of full roof window installation.
Let Hammerside Brighten Your Home with Solatube Installation
At Hammerside Exteriors, we offer expert installation of both skylights and Solatube daylighting systems. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen, hallway, or bathroom, our team can help you choose the best solution for your space, goals, and budget. Contact us today to schedule your in-home consultation and let the light in — smarter.
