Q: How does a Tubular Skylight work?
A: The lensed dome on the roof collects the light which is funnelled down the tube and into the room in which you need more natural light. On the ceiling, an attractive, unobtrusive ceiling mounted diffuser spreads the light throughout the room.

Q: How large an area does the Tubular Skylight light?
A: That really depends on how much light you want. Smaller areas with no current source of natural light will only need one small Tubular Skylight for basic lighting. Larger, more open areas will need either one or more large Tubular Skylights. This is a question best answered on site during your free in home consultation.

Q: How does a Tubular Skylight's light output compare to electric lights?
A: On a sunny summer day, a small Tubular Skylight will put off the equivalent of three or four 60 watt light bulbs, a large Tubular Skylight will put off the equivalent of three or four 100 watt light bulbs.

Q: How is a Tubular Skylight effected by the weather, such as cloudy or rainy days and snow?
A: A Tubular Skylight is designed to work well beneath cloud coverage-- there is some light loss as compared to a sunny day, but it is effective on cloudy days, even when located on the north side of the house. Not only will the Tubular Skylight function satisfactorily on a cloudy day, it will still bring in a measurable amount of light during a rainfall! The Tubular Skylight has a high maximum snow load, and is able to withstand this amount without damage. If the dome is fully covered, light output will of course be reduced.

Q: What are the advantages of choosing a Tubular Skylight instead of a traditional skylight?
A: The main advantage is cost. A Tubular Skylight will generally cost 1/3 or 1/4 of what a traditional skylight would cost for a comparable amount of light. By installing a traditional skylight, you also increase the volume of your home you are heating and cooling, which is a long term cost difference. The other difference is aesthetics, in some areas of your home, you may prefer a traditional skylight over a Tubular Skylight. This is something that can best be figured out once I am at your home.

Q: Does the Tubular Skylight have a warranty?
A: Sun In warranties each installation for the lifetime of your existing roof. Once you replace your shingles, our craftsmanship warranty is voided. The manufacturer warranty is 10 years, 5 years for the bathroom vent fan, and 3 years for all other parts.

Q: What if there is no attic space, or if I have a cathedral ceiling?
A: A Tubular Skylight is designed in such a way that almost all applications can be addressed, including events in which there is minimal space between the roof and ceiling.

Q: How durable is a Tubular Skylight? Does it leak or have condensation problems?
A: Leaks will not be a concern. I believe so strongly in my installation technique that I will give you your money back if it leaks, and I will also take care of any damage done. Condensation is a separate issue. Condensation may occur if your attic is not properly ventilated and warmer humid air is trapped in your attic (and thereby in your Tubular Skylight. The Tubular Skylight is designed to deal with the condensation, so the water that builds up will not damage your drywall, it will evaporate up the tube to the dome and drain out onto the roof through the weepholes in
the dome.

Q: Can a Tubular Skylight be installed in commercial buildings?
A: Yes. There is a large Tubular Skylight is designed precisely for commercial use. Sun In specializes in residential installations, but I will work with you if you are interested in daylighting a commercial space.

Q: Is the Tubular Skylight maintenance free?
A: Generally, yes it is. All assemblies, the dome, diffuser and flashing, are sealed and all joints are taped to prevent insect and debris infiltration. However, I have experienced some situations in which bugs ate through the tape adhesive and entered the tubular skylight. If you see a couple of bugs, take the diffuser off and clean it. If the problem is recurring, please call for warranty service.

Q: Can I install my own Tubular Skylight?
A: Yes. My rule of thumb is if you are comfortable sealing the flashing on the roof, the rest of the process can be figured out without too much trouble. Two knowledgeable people can install one Tubular Skylight in an afternoon.

Q: If I am in the process of re-roofing, when do I install the Tubular Skylight?
A: The Tubular Skylight should be installed after the new roof is completed. Partly because it is the easiest thing for me and your roofer, but you also with then have Sun In's craftsmanship warranty for the lifetime of the new roof. It is not a problem for me to do it before hand, but many times the Solatube is not properly re-installed.

Q: I am building a new home; when should I plan on having my Tubular Skylight installed?
A: In most cases, I prefer to come in after the roof and the drywall are finished.