Home Remodeling

Skylights Vs. Bigger Windows: Which Is The Best Way To Add Natural Light?

Why Natural Light Matters

Have you ever walked into a room flooded with natural sunlight and instantly felt more energized? You’re not alone. Add natural light to make a home feel inviting, spacious, and comfortable. It can even boost mood, improve sleep, and reduce electricity bills by decreasing reliance on artificial lighting.

But when it comes to adding more natural light to your home, homeowners often find themselves caught in a debate: Skylights vs. Bigger Windows—Which is the better choice?

At Sky-Lan Construction, owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Skylur and Jammie Landry, we’ve helped countless homeowners across Austin, Round Rock, and Georgetown transform their spaces with stunning renovations. If you’re trying to decide whether skylights or bigger windows are the right option for your home, we’ve got you covered!

Why You Should Add More Natural Light to Your Home

Before we dive into skylights vs. bigger windows, let’s take a moment to talk about why natural light is such a game-changer for any home.

1. Improved Mood & Productivity

Sunlight naturally boosts serotonin levels, helping to enhance mood and reduce stress. This is especially important if you’re working from home or spending extended hours indoors.

2. Energy Efficiency & Lower Utility Bills

Increasing natural light reduces dependence on artificial lighting during the day, helping you cut down on energy bills. With well-placed skylights or larger windows, you can make the most of the sun’s rays year-round.

3. A More Spacious & Inviting Home

Rooms with ample daylight automatically appear larger and more open, making your living space feel more airy and welcoming.

4. Boosts Home Value

Buyers love bright, sunlit homes. Homes with carefully designed natural lighting often fetch higher resale values than dimly lit homes.

Skylights: The Pros and Cons of Bringing in Natural Light from Above

If you’ve ever admired the soft glow of daylight streaming in from above, you understand the appeal of skylights. But are they the right choice for your home?

How Skylights Work

Skylights are installed on the roof, allowing natural light to pour in from above. They’re perfect for areas where traditional windows might not be an option—think bathrooms, hallways, and attics.

Types of Skylights

  • Fixed Skylights: These are great for bringing in sunlight but don’t open for ventilation.
  • Vented Skylights: These can be opened to allow air circulation, perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.
  • Tubular Skylights: Smaller and more affordable, these tube-like skylights work well for closets and hallways.

Benefits of Skylights

  • Ideal for Privacy: Unlike large windows, skylights bring in light without compromising privacy.
  • Brighter Rooms: Natural light from above can transform a dark space into a cozy, inviting area.
  • Ventilation Benefits: Vented skylights improve airflow, reducing humidity and stale air.

Challenges of Skylights

  • Higher Installation Costs: Since skylights require roof cutting and sealing, installation tends to be pricier than windows.
  • Potential for Heat Loss/Gain: Without proper insulation, skylights could contribute to higher energy costs.
  • Maintenance Concerns: Skylights require periodic maintenance to prevent leaks and condensation issues.

Bigger Windows: A Clear Path to More Sunlight

If you love big, open views and an airy feel, installing larger windows might be your best bet. Expanding your windows can flood a room with light and create a strong indoor-outdoor connection.

Best Window Styles for Maximum Natural Light

  • Picture Windows: Large, non-opening windows that allow tons of sunlight inside.
  • Sliding Glass Doors: Great for merging indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • Bay & Bow Windows: Extend outward, allowing more light and panoramic views.
  • Floor-to-Ceiling Windows: These create stunning modern aesthetics and flood a space with daylight.

Pros of Bigger Windows

  • Expands Your View: Large windows create a seamless transition to outdoor scenery.
  • Better Ventilation: Unlike skylights, bigger windows can be opened for fresh air.
  • More Design Flexibility: Windows come in various shapes and sizes to match any home style.

Drawbacks to Consider

  • Needs Wall Space: If your home has limited wall area, installing larger windows could be tricky.
  • Heat & Glare Issues: Without UV-blocking films, large windows can cause excessive heat indoors.
  • Privacy Concerns: Unlike skylights, larger windows may reduce privacy without curtains or blinds.

Skylights vs. Bigger Windows: What’s the Best Way to Add Natural Light?

So, which should you choose? The answer depends on your home’s layout and lifestyle needs.

  • Choose Skylights If: You want light in areas with limited wall space, care about privacy, or prefer a unique architectural feature.
  • Choose Bigger Windows If: You love wide-open views, want fresh air circulation, and have enough wall space.

If you’re torn between the two, you can even combine skylights and larger windows strategically to amplify natural light from multiple angles.

See more from This Old House: Letting Natural Light In

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Both skylights and bigger windows can transform a space by adding more natural light in different ways.

Still unsure? That’s where we come in! Sky-Lan Construction has helped countless homeowners in Austin, Georgetown, and Round Rock bring their vision to life. We’d love to help you choose the perfect natural lighting solution for your home.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s brighten up your home—together!