Sky Lights and Solar Tubes

A skylight is a framed window in the roof; a solar tube is a small reflective tube that funnels daylight into a room from a 10–14 inch roof opening. Skylights deliver more light, can open for ventilation, and offer a view of the sky — but cost more and require a larger roof opening. Solar tubes are perfect for hallways, bathrooms, and closets where you want natural light without the expense or structural work of a full skylight.

Skylights from Excel Roofing typically cost $1,200 to $3,500 per unit installed, and solar tubes run $900 to $2,500. Final cost depends on the size and type (fixed, vented, or solar-powered opening), the brand, your roof pitch, and any framing or drywall work needed inside the home. We install Velux skylights, and Solatube and Natural Light solar tubes.

Yes. Skylights can be added to an existing roof at any time, and the best time is during a roof replacement so the flashing and underlayment can be tied in cleanly with the new shingles. Excel Roofing handles the roof opening, framing, flashing, exterior install, and coordinates interior drywall finish work. Most installs are completed in a single day.

Not when they're installed correctly. Skylight leaks almost always come from poor flashing or aging seals — not the skylight itself. Excel Roofing installs Velux skylights with the manufacturer's matched flashing kit and ties everything into the underlayment and shingles the way the manufacturer specifies. Done right, a quality skylight will outlast many roofs.