Are you looking for skylights but discovering that there are many designs available on the market? How do you know which one is best for your daylighting needs at home or in your office building? With so many options to pick from, the search for the perfect skylight can become overwhelming!
One option to consider is manually and electronically operated or solar-powered Velux skylights Melbourne suppliers offer their Australian customers. Velux skylights are a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike, but what makes them stand out from the crowd? Keep reading as we talk about the features of the manual and automated skylights made by Velux.
3 Features of Manual and Automated Velux Skylights
1. Manual vs. Electrical vs. Solar Power Designs
Many skylight brands manufacture and sell manual and automatic skylights. If you decide to pick from the Velux range, you’ll discover quite a variety! Here are some of the products you can expect to find from this brand:
- Manually and electronically operated top-hung skylights: Positioned just below the roof, maintaining the aesthetics of the roofline.
- Solar-powered skylights: Automated with solar power with different designs for flat and pitched roofs.
- Manual skylights for flat roofs: Made for flat roofs and manually operated with a handle winder or rod.
Manual skylights are ideal for areas that are within reach for easy operation, although you can use a rod for out-of-reach locations. The manual designs are more affordable. Electrically operated skylights are convenient, easy to use, and more expensive. If you’re looking for energy efficiency, go with solar-powered skylights.
2. Glazing
The following Velux skylights offer different glazing options:
- Manual top-hung skylight: One option is high-performance glazing with an outer coating to reduce cleaning frequency. Comfort double-glazing is the alternative option which allows for maximum noise reduction.
- Electronically operated top–hung skylights: Only one option is available which is the standard high-performance double glazing with an outer coating for minimal cleaning.
- Solar-powered skylights: Fitted with standard high-performance double glazing with a coating that reduces cleaning frequency.
- Manual flat roof skylights: Only available in standard high-performance double glazing with outer coating for reduced cleaning time.
Double-glazed skylights are an energy-efficient solution that offers an aesthetically appealing appearance to your home. They minimise heat transfer, keeping your home warm in winter and cool in the hot summer months. Double glazing reduces noise, creating a comfortable living or working environment.
3. Manual vs. Electrical vs. Solar Power Operations
Operational features differ depending on the type of skylight you install. Here are the different features:
- Manually-operated skylights: Within-reach top-hung skylights operate with a brass handle while out-of-reach designs are manually opened or closed with a rod (up to 2.85m high). A winder handle is used to operate within-reach flat roof skylights while those out of reach are opened and closed with a rod.
- Electronically-operated skylights: Installed with a pre-installed electric motor and rain sensor which allows the skylight to automatically close during wet conditions.
- Solar-operated skylights: Solar power recharges batteries for day and night operation and a rain sensor is included in the design.
Solar-powered and electronically operated skylights are the best solutions for high ceilings.
Tips for Getting the Best Skylights for Your Home or Commercial Building
Quality skylights from well-known brands such as Velux give you value for your money. Here are some handy tips for ensuring you get the best skylights for your home or commercial building:
- Work with an experienced skylight installer: Professional skylight installation ensures your daylighting devices work optimally. Skylights installed on corrugated iron or tile roofs need to be fitted with flashings.
- Look for the highest quality and longevity: Extensive testing ensures the skylight materials are robust, weather-proof, and safe. Skylights should be of the highest quality to guarantee longevity.
- Confirm certification requirements: Factories such as those used by Velux are certified according to ISO 9001 which ensures all skylights and roof windows meet international standards.
- Customer service and advice: Choose skylight installers who take their customers seriously and are knowledgeable in the industry, so you get the best advice for your daylighting needs.
- Read customer testimonials: Reading customer reviews about skylight installers will help you gauge what expectations were met. If a company doesn’t display customer testimonials, check out Google Reviews for more information.
Consider the reason for installing skylights and what size and shape you need for proper fitting. Take into consideration placement and accessories for improved aesthetics and functionality. It’s equally important to decide whether you want skylights or roof windows, and an expert in the field should assist you in making the right decision for your home or office space.
Final Thoughts
Manual and automated skylights are a wonderful addition to any home or commercial property. They help you reduce costly energy bills while uplifting the appearance of your property. Use the tips in this article to help you pick the best Velux skylights for your daylighting needs with the right features for optimal results.
