Natural Light Solutions for Your Property
Skylights transform dark, enclosed spaces into bright, welcoming areas filled with natural daylight. At Cran-Marsh Inc., we specialize in professional skylight installation and replacement services throughout New England, Cape Cod & The Islands, bringing over 50 years of construction expertise to every project. As a Velux 5 Star Skylight Specialist, we understand the technical requirements and aesthetic possibilities that these architectural features offer both residential and commercial properties.
Natural lighting through skylights provides numerous benefits beyond simple illumination. Studies show that buildings with adequate natural light experience 15% reduction in energy costs during daylight hours, while occupants report improved mood and productivity. Our family owned and operated business has installed thousands of skylights across New England, including Cape Cod and the Islands, helping property owners maximize their spaces while reducing dependency on artificial lighting. We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern installation techniques to ensure each skylight performs optimally for decades.
Types of Skylights and Their Applications
Fixed skylights remain the most popular choice for areas where ventilation isn’t required but maximum light transmission is desired. These units feature sealed glass panels that provide unobstructed views of the sky while maintaining excellent thermal efficiency. We typically recommend fixed skylights for hallways, stairwells, and living areas where consistent natural light enhances the space without requiring operational features.
Venting skylights offer both illumination and fresh air circulation, making them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and upper-floor bedrooms. These units can be operated manually with a rod or upgraded to electric or solar-powered motors for convenient remote control access. Modern venting skylights include rain sensors that automatically close the unit when moisture is detected, protecting your interior from unexpected weather changes. Our certification with leading manufacturers ensures we install these complex systems correctly, maintaining warranty coverage and optimal performance.
Tubular skylights provide an innovative solution for smaller spaces or areas where traditional skylights aren’t feasible. These systems capture sunlight through a rooftop dome and channel it through highly reflective tubes to a ceiling-mounted diffuser. Perfect for closets, bathrooms, and interior hallways, tubular skylights can bend around obstacles in your attic space, bringing natural light to previously impossible locations.
Technical Considerations and Energy Efficiency
Modern skylight technology has evolved significantly from earlier generations. Today’s units feature:
- Low-E glass coatings that reflect infrared light while allowing visible light to pass through
- Argon gas fills between double or triple-pane glass for superior insulation
- Thermally broken frames that prevent heat transfer and condensation
- Impact-resistant glazing options for areas prone to severe weather
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Energy efficiency ratings for skylights follow strict industry standards. The National Fenestration Rating Council provides U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient ratings that help determine the best skylight for your climate and application. Our experienced team analyzes your specific needs, considering factors like roof orientation, shading from nearby structures, and interior usage patterns to recommend skylights that optimize both natural lighting and energy performance.
Proper installation remains critical for achieving these efficiency benefits. Poor installation can lead to air leaks, water infiltration, and premature failure of the unit. Our GAF Master Elite Certification and CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator credentials demonstrate our commitment to excellence in roofing systems integration, ensuring your skylight installation maintains the integrity of your entire roof system.
Installation Process and Maintenance
Professional skylight installation begins with careful planning and structural assessment. We evaluate your roof’s framing to determine if additional support is needed, particularly for larger units. The installation process involves cutting through roofing materials and decking, installing proper flashing systems, and integrating the skylight with surrounding roofing materials to ensure watertight performance.
Flashing represents the most critical component of skylight installation. We use step flashing along the sides, head flashing at the top, and an apron at the bottom, all properly integrated with your roofing materials. This multi-layer approach directs water away from the skylight opening, preventing the leaks that often plague improperly installed units. Our decades of experience have taught us that attention to these details during installation prevents costly repairs later.
Regular maintenance extends skylight lifespan and maintains optimal performance. We recommend annual inspections to check seals, clear debris from weep holes, and ensure operating mechanisms function smoothly. Many skylight failures result from neglected maintenance rather than manufacturing defects. Our trusted team provides comprehensive maintenance services, helping property owners protect their investment while maintaining warranty coverage.
Skylights represent a valuable addition to any property, combining aesthetic appeal with practical benefits. Whether you’re considering new installation or replacing existing units, Cran-Marsh Inc. brings the competent, honest service that has made us a trusted contractor for over 50 years. Contact us to explore how skylights can transform your space with natural light.
