Considering Solar Tubes: Frequently Asked Questions

Solar tubes are innovative and extremely efficient alternative to the traditional skylights and solar lights. While skylights just open a passive passage for sunlight to enter when it's at the right angle, solar tubes capture lights coming to the roof at all angles and sends it down a reflective tube where it is diffused evenly throughout the room.

Since the technology involved makes solar tubes a more expensive choice than skylights, you will want to ask a lot of questions about features and performance before making an investment.

How Much Light Can I Expect?
The amount of sun that enters a room through a solar tube will vary according to the time of day, as well as the amount of direct sunlight available. While the solar tubes will still light the room on cloudy days, the light will not be ass powerful. In general, you can expect anywhere from 100 to 500 square feet of light from a single solar tube. The actual amount of light you get will depend on the size of the dome/light tube you purchase, as well as the manufacturer and model. You will want to measure the size of your room and select a model that will provide adequate lighting.

How Difficult is Installation?

One of the major benefits of the solar tube lies in the ease of installation. Because they have a narrow profile, solar tubes fit between rafters and require no construction alterations. Other types of solar lights require larger areas of roof to be manipulated and may require structural changes. Solar tubes work with a small dome that still manages to disperse natural light throughout the room.

Can a Solar Tube Be Turned Off?

Some manfucturers offer models that are fitted with light-control features such as dimmers. If controlling the light inflow is important to you, check with different manufacturers to find out if they offer light control and what technology is utilized. Ask if light can be shut off altogether or just dimmed.

Solar tubes are an efficient means of bringing natural light into your home. Check out the offerings of several manufacturers before making a purchase to get the best price and the features that provide the lighting options you need.