The Main Benefits of Tubular Skylights
Posted By Houston Decorator on July 13, 2010
Have you noticed that tubular skylights are now appearing in more buildings? These light diffusing devices can also be termed a sun tube or sun tunnel and are usually categorized alongside other TDDs (tubular lighting devices). They can be bought in a range of designs such as straight, jointed, or curved, all of which are able to boost the level of natural light entering a room space.
On first appearance a tubular skylight appears similar to other forms of recessed lighting. They will not look obtrusive no matter what decor is present. In many cases they are easier to install and cheaper than other types of skylights. As their size is typically compact this means that far less heat is lost outwards during the cold winter months, during the summer heat gain can also be controlled. They are often described as being a great energy saving device.
The main design concept behind tubular skylights is to have a living space which is brightened by diffused sunlight. Indirect light is not so harmful and damaging to people and belongings. For example if sunlight was to enter a room unimpeded it can cause eye strain as well as damage to furnishings. It is possible to pick up a tubular skylight that comes with an integrated electrical light which can be used during the night or when the sky is heavy with cloud.
The bulk of tubular skylight designs feature an acrylic lens and metal frame. The actual tubes are place within a dome that is fixed into the roof. They also use a reflective sun scoop that directs the daylight into a tube. This tube has a reflective coating that can guide the light out through a diffuser. It is the diffuser that can be seen in the room’s ceiling.
Although they are quite compact when compared to other skylights, a tubular design is still able to bring a high level of light into any room. It has been claimed that on an average winter’s day the light output is the same as a 700 watt bulb, while during the summer this can increase to 1200 watts. This would be sufficient for almost everyone’s needs.
The cost of a modern tubular skylight can vary extensively. The cheapest can be picked up for as little as a hundred dollars, but for a top quality product expect to fork out upwards of five hundred dollars. It is best to avoid the budget options as their design and finish is not going to be so great.
When searching for a trades person to carry out the installation do as much research as possible. You should not hire any installer without questioning their knowledge. If you can, choose a company that has been recommended by someone you trust. If the firm does not have the right experience you may be provided with a skylight that suffers frequent leaks and droughts.
If you have some knowledge you could even do the skylight installation yourself. As electricity costs are rising continually it makes great sense to choose tubular skylights to help bring down the expense of lighting, heating, and cooling your property. Also the light that enters the rooms from tubular skylights would create a more positive and productive ambiance than if only using an artificial form of lighting.
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