A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Commercial Skylights

Skylights have become popular for commercial and industrial spaces, offering abundant natural light, energy efficiency, and other benefits. However, selecting the right commercial skylights for your specific needs is crucial to ensure optimal performance and minimize maintenance costs. Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the perfect commercial skylight.

Size

According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the size of a skylight plays a crucial role in regulating temperature and illumination in the space below. The recommended size should be 5% of the floor area for spaces with many windows or 15% for rooms with few windows. Consider room brightness and multiply the square footage to determine the appropriate measurements.

Shape

Skylights come in various shapes, including circular, diamond, multi-sided, oval, rectangular, triangular, and tubular. Each variation offers unique benefits. For instance, smaller tubular skylights can enhance daylight streaming while minimizing heat buildup and loss.

Energy Efficiency

Architectural skylights can significantly impact both lighting costs and environmental sustainability. Look for windows that utilize glazing techniques such as heat-absorbing tints, insulated glazing, and low-emissivity coatings to enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, check if the skylight carries an energy performance rating from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) for maximum sustainability.

Ventilation

Consider ventilation needs when selecting a skylight. Certain skylights enhance ventilation by releasing hot air that accumulates toward the ceiling. They open outward at the bottom, providing fresh airflow. However, some skylights may not be as effective in providing adequate ventilation compared to other options.

Climate Zone

Consider the impact of your building’s climate zone on skylight insulation requirements. Prioritize dome skylights with superior insulation properties for colder climates to minimize heat loss.

Wind Load

Select a skylight designed and rated to withstand high winds for safety and longevity in windy or hurricane-prone areas.

Hail Rating

In regions with hailstorms, choose a skylight with a higher hail rating. Such skylights are designed to withstand harsh weather and minimize the risk of damage.

Insurance Standards

Adhering to FM Global insurance standards is crucial when selecting a skylight for your commercial space. Look for skylights that have undergone rigorous fire, hail simulation, and wind resistance tests to ensure they meet safety requirements.

Warranty

Before finalizing your skylight purchase, carefully review the warranty options. Different skylight manufacturers may offer varying coverage periods. Consider the longevity and reliability of the warranty to ensure peace of mind for your investment.

The Right Skylight Makes All the Difference

A well-chosen skylight can make a positive impact on your commercial space, harnessing natural light to create an inviting and energy-efficient environment that can potentially enhance productivity and contribute to environmentally friendly practices. For assistance in selecting the perfect skylight for your building and additional daylighting strategies, reach out to a trusted skylight provider.