Orlando Homes

Skylights Part II

Skylights are available in all shapes and sizes. The size will have a large impact on the illumination and temperature effect in the room. In general, skylights are not to be more than 5% of the area in rooms with lots of windows and no more than 15% of the area of a room with very few windows.

Manufactures utilize different types of glazing in improving the energy efficiency of skylights. Plastic glazing is inexpensive and strong. On the downside, the surface is likely to scratch and can discolor. Glass glazing is more expensive but has great durability. The glass used must be made of “safety glazing” which includes laminated and tempered glass. These types of glass resist breaking into large pieces. It is common for tempered glaze to be used on the exterior while laminated glaze is on the interior for maximum resistance. Solar heat control glazing minimizes the negative affects of the winter season’s heat loss and the summer season’s heat gain. The glazes have heat absorbing tints, low-emissivity coatings, and double- and triple-paned skylights.

The slope of the skylight is also an important factor as it impacts the solar heat gain. The lower the tilt, the more solar heat will be admitted in the summer and the less in the winter. The ideal slope is the geographical latitude plus an additional 5 to 15 degrees. Some skylights are equipped with a shaft which directs sunlight into the room. If all sides are flared, light will be evenly distributed throughout the room. If two perpendicular sides are opened, the result will be the sun shining directly below. With one or two sides flared, the light will shine in the flared direction.

If you are building a Orlando custom home, contact the professionals at BRC Homes today by calling 352-383-1948.