What Is A Sun Tunnel In A House?

If you are looking to add more light into your home, you may consider installing a sun tunnel. Let’s take a look at sun tunnels while also comparing them to the similar tubular skylights.

What Is A Sun Tunnel?

A sun tunnel is a roof penetration which allows more natural sunlight into your home. These tunnels do not need direct sunlight to provide the home with natural lighting, even on the first floor of a two-story home.

There are two kinds of sun tunnels: rigid and flexible. Rigid sun tunnels are used when there is a straight shot from your roof all the way down through the ceiling. Flexible sun tunnels are installed when there are obstructions in the way of the space needed for its location.

Sun Tunnels Vs Skylights

Skylights and sun tunnels definitely share some similarities, including lowering your energy bills. So, what are the differences between these two lighting options?

While sun tunnels and skylights do have a lot of similarities, there are several differences that you should know about before installing either option. For example, a sun tunnel can be installed in areas that a skylight can’t, such as a closet or small hallway. This is due to the sun tunnels being much smaller.

Skylights, meanwhile, are much larger and can come in different shapes like oval, diamond or square. Skylights can also open, unlike sun tunnels. These skylight models can be opened by either a manual crank or an electric rail system.

Skylight Vs Sun Tunnel Cost

A new skylight will cost between $1700-$3,700, according to Velux. The price range depends on whether you choose a fresh-air model or a fixed skylight. House Logic says a new sun tunnel comes with a lower price tag, ranging from $500-$1,000.

Skylight Pros

Best direct view of the sky.
Can be opened, if needed.
Adds natural light to the home.
Save money on energy use.

Skylight Cons

Increased heat gain.
Can fade fabrics or clothing.
More expensive to install and maintain.
Leaks can occur due to improper installation.

Sun Tunnel Pros

Low maintenance costs.
Quick installation process.
No loss of cooling or heating energy.
Designed to prevent leaks.

Sun Tunnel Cons

Cannot be opened.
No visual of the sky.
Not all models can handle extreme temperatures.
Light cannot be blocked.

Is A Sun Tunnel Or Skylight Easier To Install?

In most cases, a sun tunnel is easier to install simply because skylights are much larger. Skylights will require a longer installation process compared to sun tunnels. A sun tunnel may only require one or two people for the installation.

The project will call for a contractor to create a hole from your roof to ceiling, then fit the tube down into the hole. This is followed by the installation of an acrylic dome and a light diffuser. A skylight calls for more labor and construction.

Does A Sun Tunnel Or Skylight Let More Light In?

Skylights are mounted directly to your roof’s decking, so it acts just like a window. Therefore, skylights do allow more natural light into the home than sun tunnels.

Skylight Installation In Phoenix

Elite Home Daylighting Systems offers tubular skylights and solar attic fan installation services to the entire Phoenix east valley. Service area includes Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe & more! Contact us for a free quote today!

What Is A Sun Tunnel?

Sun Tunnels Vs Skylights