|
||
|
|
||
|
Skylights are one of the most useful and easy to install improvements to your home. Most installations do not involve cutting any structural roof supports, so they are perfect for "do it yourselfers" !
|
||
| Overview:
Over the past 23 years I have installed 50 skylights and as a result I have some
recommendations.
1. Most people never open a venting or opening skylight once it’s installed, so think seriously about using a fixed panel skylight. 2. I have not located a better brand skylight than Velux. Their flashing system is simple and never leaks.
|
|
|
| 3. Use the 22" wide skylight
units whenever possible, as they do not require cutting of any roof
supports. If you want to have more glass, simply gang together a series
of 22" wide units. You can have an entire roof of ganged and
stacked skylights and not effect the structural integrity of the roof
framing. Velux sells flashing kits for just about any configuration you
can dream up.
Installing skylights: The drawing portrays a simple installation between rafters or trusses. There is no difference between rafters or truss installations as long as you don’t cut the roof framing.
|
||
| The installation
instructions included with each unit tell you to cut an opening in the roof sheathing (plywood under the
shingles) to the dimensions of the unit purchased. The skylight
sits on it’s own legs fastened to the outside of the sheathing. The
flashing kit is then installed and nailed as instructed. No caulking is
needed.
|
|
|
| The drawing shows the interior
framing you add for a drywall box leading from your ceiling to the
skylight unit itself. Most installations use a metal drywall corner bead
at the
turning point of your ceiling up to the skylight unit. You’ll notice
the box framing is angled outward, and is larger than the dimensions of the
skylight itself where it meets your ceiling drywall. This is to allow
more light into the room, and have less of a tunnel effect. Finish
the drywall, paint, and enjoy!
|
||
|
||
