Skylight Information
Deck Mounted vs Curb Mounted
The skylight you choose for your home can be installed with a variety of techniques (deck mounted, curb mounted or self-flashed). Where you’re located in the country and the installation method that your installer prefers will generally determine which type of system you’ll choose. A deck mounted skylight is installed directly onto the roof surface as is a self-flashed unit. A curb mounted skylight, however, has to be installed onto a specially built wooden curb that is attached to the roof.
Fixed vs Venting
The primary difference between a fixed and a venting skylight is that the fixed remains closed at all times, while the venting skylight utilize electricity, solar power, or a manual handle to open and close the skylight. VELUX backs up all of their products with a 10 year “No Leak” promise, so there’s no need to worry about one type being more or less likely to leak than the other. Your installer can help you determine which option is the best fit for your needs based on where the skylight is going to be installed.
Roof Windows
In addition to skylights, VELUX offers an option called Roof Windows. These products open much wider than traditional skylights to allow roof access in the case of required maintenance or an additional fire exit.
Glass Options
A variety of glazing options are available for VELUX skylights and roof windows. Each glazing type is tailored to accommodate different weather and building environments.
- Constructed to be energy efficient
- Contains LowE3 (Argon Inert gas dual pane glass)
- NFRC rating is much greater than required by city building codes
- Provides 3x greater protection against solar heat gain
- Resists condensation twice as long than clear glass
- Protects building interiors by reflecting the majority of UV Rays
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between deck mounted and curb mounted skylights?
A deck mounted skylight is installed directly onto the roof surface, as is a self-flashed unit. A curb mounted skylight has to be installed onto a specially built wooden curb attached to the roof. Your location and your installer's preferred method will generally decide which system you use.
What is the difference between a fixed and a venting skylight?
A fixed skylight stays closed at all times. A venting skylight opens and closes using electricity, solar power or a manual handle.
Are venting skylights more likely to leak than fixed skylights?
No. VELUX backs all of its products with a 10-year "No Leak" promise, so there's no need to worry about one type being more or less likely to leak than the other.
What is a roof window?
A roof window is a VELUX product that opens much wider than a traditional skylight, allowing roof access for maintenance or serving as an additional fire exit.
What glass options are available for VELUX skylights?
VELUX offers a variety of glazing types, each tailored to different weather and building environments. Options include energy-efficient LowE3 glass with an argon inert gas dual pane. Your installer can help you choose the right one.