How to Reduce Heat Loss
How to Reduce Heat Loss & Gain with the Right Skylight Glazing
Skylights are a fantastic way to introduce natural light into your home, but without the right glazing, they can contribute to unwanted heat loss in winter and excessive heat gain in summer. Choosing the appropriate glazing for your skylight is essential for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment while improving energy efficiency. In this guide, we’ll explore the best glazing options to help regulate temperature and reduce energy costs.
Why Skylight Glazing Matters
Skylight glazing serves as a barrier between your indoor space and external weather conditions. The right glazing will not only improve insulation but also enhance daylight control and UV protection. Poor glazing choices can lead to increased energy bills, overheating, and heat loss, making it crucial to select the best option for your climate and home design.
Types of Skylight Glazing
Double & Triple Glazing
Double and triple glazing consist of multiple layers of glass separated by insulating gas, providing superior thermal efficiency compared to single-glazed skylights.
- Double glazing reduces heat loss while allowing ample natural light.
- Triple glazing offers even better insulation, making it ideal for colder climates.
Both options help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
Low-Emissivity (Low-E) Coatings
Low-E coatings are thin layers applied to the glass surface to reflect heat while still allowing light to pass through.
- In winter, Low-E coatings keep heat inside your home, reducing energy costs.
- In summer, they prevent excessive solar heat gain, maintaining a cooler indoor temperature.
This technology is particularly useful for skylights in sun-exposed areas where temperature control is a priority.
Solar Control Glazing
For homes that experience intense sunlight, solar control glazing minimises heat gain while maintaining bright and natural lighting. This type of glazing can be tinted or coated to reduce glare and block harmful UV rays, helping to protect furniture from fading.
- Ideal for skylights installed in south- or west-facing roofs.
- Helps maintain a comfortable indoor climate without excessive cooling costs.
Laminated vs. Toughened Glass
Both laminated and toughened glass options provide safety and durability, but they serve different purposes:
- Laminated glass consists of layers bonded with an interlayer, holding the glass together upon impact. It offers superior UV protection and sound insulation.
- Toughened glass is heat-treated for strength and designed to shatter into small, safe fragments if broken. It is an excellent option for high-traffic areas and walk-on skylights.
For maximum security and energy efficiency, many modern skylights combine both toughened and laminated glass.
How to Choose the Best Glazing for Your Skylight
Consider Your Climate
Your location plays a major role in determining the best glazing option:
- Cold climates: Opt for triple glazing or Low-E coatings to minimise heat loss.
- Hot climates: Use solar control glazing to reduce overheating.
- Variable climates: Double glazing with Low-E coatings provides year-round efficiency.
Assess Roof Orientation
The direction your skylight faces affects how much sunlight and heat it receives:
- North-facing: Consistent but soft daylight, minimal heat gain.
- South-facing: High solar exposure, requires heat control features.
- East-facing: Bright morning light with minimal afternoon heat.
- West-facing: Afternoon heat exposure, benefits from solar control glass.
Evaluate Energy Efficiency Ratings
When purchasing a skylight, look for energy performance ratings such as:
- U-value: Measures heat loss; lower values indicate better insulation.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Rates how much heat is transmitted; lower values are ideal for warm climates.
- Visible Light Transmission (VLT): Determines how much natural light enters; balancing VLT with heat control is essential.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right skylight glazing is key to maintaining a comfortable, energy-efficient home. Whether you need to prevent heat loss in winter or block excessive sunlight in summer, choosing the correct glazing option will help regulate your indoor environment effectively.
If you’re considering installing or upgrading a skylight, Summit Skylights offers expert guidance and high-performance glazing solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us today to find the best skylight for your home!