26 June 2018
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog

Skylights are a common option in tiny home builds. They can be added to most standard tiny home blueprints, or as an option to current blueprint designs. The skylights available do come in a variety of designs. There is more that you need to know about skylight windows beyond adding them and choosing a design. Here are three things to know about installing skylights in your tiny home to make them more suitable for your lifestyle and more comfortable for your home plans.

Environmental Concerns

One of the first things you need to know before installing skylight windows in your tiny home is your environment. This isn't about the environment you live in currently. This is more about traveling, the environments you will be dealing with, and the environments you may be planning to move to. Keep in mind, most skylights in tiny homes are over the sleeping area. In the summer, for example, this could lead to extreme heat differences in the sleeping area. Shades should be consideration. If you are concerned about winter weather conditions, you will want cold weather and draft resistant weather sealing around the windows.

Alternative Placement

Though the idea of watching the stars while you fall asleep sounds good, living with that choice may be a bit different. Skylights placed directly over the sleeping area will let in a lot of natural light during the day. The problem is that this position could lead to severe issues if an issue does occur. For example, if a leak happens, the leak would be directly over your sleeping area that could soak your sheets and mattress. Instead, you could go for an alternative placement such as above the kitchen area or living room where natural light should be optimal during the day and leaks are easier to manage.

Remote Control Options

You may not think of remote controls when you think about skylight windows. In most homes, this would not be an issue. However, in a tiny home, a remote control can save a lot of climbing and be an easy fix when weather changes. For example, remotes can control if the skylight is open or closed. They can also control the shade on a skylight by moving it up or down depending on the time of day or weather. These simple functions would normally require climbing up and down the stairs or ladder depending on how your tiny home is laid out. With the remote they can be done from anywhere in range.

These are only three of the things you should know before installing skylight windows in a tiny home. If you are prepared for the issues your specific tiny home build may have and are still ready to have skylight windows installed, contact your local window contractor. They can help you with choices, installation and items to enhance your skylight windows.