Are you tired of your dim and uninviting garage? Have you considered how you can make the space more functional and appealing? In fact, garages are commonly neglected when it comes to home improvements. However, upgrading this place has a lot of benefits. It can boost the value of your house or provide you with a new workshop or hobby room.

If you're looking for a simple and efficient way to enhance your existing garage then installing a flat roof skylight might be just the solution you need. A roof window like this will not only let in plenty of natural light but will also help you save money on your energy bills.

Please continue reading to learn more about the benefits of garage skylights and how they can transform your space.

What are the advantages of adding a skylight to your garage?

Adding a roof window to your garage is a relatively easy renovation and can be advantageous in a variety of ways. Whether you use this space to park your car or to store household goods, installing a skylight can completely transform it and make it more usable.

Here we'll go over the benefits of a garage skylight and why it might be a smart investment.

Bring more natural light

Most garages are dark and dim spaces which typically consist of walls, a flat roof and one entrance. The lighting and fresh air are normally limited which can really make this place uninviting and unusable. One of the simplest ways to change that is to install a skylight. Such a roof window will provide a natural source of light and warmth so you will no longer need those noisy and flickering light bulbs.

Skylights can provide more natural light per square foot of surface area than standard windows. This is simply because they are typically installed on the roof, where they are not obstructed by walls or other objects. In case you are concerned about the glare coming from the window, you can opt for a skylight with Low-E (low-emissivity) glass. It will help to reduce glare and heat gain while still allowing plenty of natural light into the room.

Fitting a skylight enables you to turn the unusable and dim garage into a more brighter and functional place. You can use it as a workshop, or home gym or even transform it into a living space.

Improve the garage’s ventilation

Garages are usually dark and damp spaces with little or no ventilation. As a result, they are ideal breeding grounds for mildew, mould, and odours. Adding a skylight to your garage will allow fresh air to enter the space, allowing proper ventilation. Air circulation, on the other hand, will reduce moisture and the growth of mould and unpleasant odour.

When you open the skylight on a regular basis, you will be able to easily regulate the temperature and humidity levels in your garage. It will improve the space's comfort and functionality. You can use it to store some household items there without worrying about mould damage.

In addition to providing ventilation, skylights can also allow natural sunlight into the garage, which will help prevent mould growth. Ultraviolet light acts as a natural disinfectant against these toxins that typically thrive in damp, dark environments.

Lower energy bills

If you use your garage as a home gym, a hobby room, or simply spend a lot of time there, you will need to heat it. This will undoubtedly increase your energy costs. However, if you add a skylight to your garage, you will almost certainly not need to heat the space on sunny days. These roof windows can let in daylight to your garage, reducing the need for both heating and artificial lighting. Consequently, your utility bills will also go down.

In addition, skylights can be installed with features that enhance insulation in the space. For example, skylights with double or triple glazing can be an excellent choice for preventing heat loss and creating more sustainable space. Roof windows with insulated frames can also be used to reduce heat transfer between the inside and outside of the garage.

It is important to note, however, that the installation of the skylight plays an important role in achieving optimal insulation. To prevent heat loss, your window must be properly insulated and sealed. In case you are considering adding a skylight to your garage make sure to hire a professional window installer to do the job for you.

Boost the value of the property

Installing a roof window to the garage can also add good value to your house. However, you should understand that the extent of the impact will depend on the quality of the installation, the quality of the skylight as well as the overall condition of your property.

Skylights can improve the appearance of your garage and provide a distinct design element that distinguishes your home from others on the market. Such windows can add visual interest and appeal when installed properly and designed to complement the style of the property.

In addition, rooflights and skylights are a great source of natural light which is a highly sought-after feature in real estate. These types of windows can make the garage more appealing to potential buyers who are looking for a brighter and more welcoming space. The garage skylight also provides other features, such as energy efficiency and functionality, that can be attractive to many homebuyers.

Increase the usability of the garage space

In most cases, garages are dark and uninviting spaces used to park vehicles or store unnecessary items. Adding natural light, such as roof light or skylight to your garage is a great way to make the area more functional and enjoyable to use. The roof window will improve the lighting and ventilation as well as enhance the appeal of the space. As a result, you will most likely want to spend more time in the garage and use it for purposes other than storage.

There are plenty of ways to utilize your garage space. You can convert it into a home office, workshop, home gym or any other type of hobby room. You may also transform your garage into a bedroom or living area. However, keep in mind that it may be a more expensive project because it requires more improvements than simply adding a skylight. In addition, you would need planning permission to implement such a project.

Promote better health

Adding a roof window to your garage or your home can be really beneficial for your well-being. It provides ample natural sunlight in the space which is important for our physical and mental health. Sunlight exposure is one of the best sources of vitamin D which is essential for bone health. It can also regulate the circadian rhythm, which can improve sleep patterns and help maintain normal blood pressure. 

Additionally, sunlight is considered a natural stress reliever. It can boost mood, productivity, and energy levels as well as increase overall health. The natural light from the roof window will also eliminate the need for artificial garage lights, which can cause eye strain and fatigue.

Overall, adding a skylight to your garage can offer many advantages that can improve the lighting, functionality and energy efficiency of the space as well as enhance the overall value of your property.

What are the different garage skylight options?

There are different types of skylights that you can add to your garage, including:

  • Fixed skylights. These are stationary windows which cannot be opened. They can be a good choice if you just want to improve the lighting and aesthetic of your garage. However, if proper ventilation is your priority then you will need to consider installing another type of skylight.

  • Operable skylights. These windows can be opened and can be a great addition to garages that need regular ventilation or that are used more frequently.

  • Tubular skylights. These are small and compact skylights and are a good option for garages where traditional skylights cannot be installed due to space or structural constraints. They consist of a dome on the roof that captures natural light and reflects it down through a reflective tube into the garage.

  • Customized skylights. Such roof windows can be specifically designed to meet the unique needs and specifications of your garage. They enable you to customise your garage window by choosing the shape, size and material that suit the specific requirements of your space.

When selecting a skylight for your garage, you will need to consider some factors such as the size of the construction, how much natural light you want to bring in as well as whether improving air quality is your priority. Also, to ensure a proper skylight installation it is essential to seek help from a professional window installer.

What is the process of installing a garage skylight?

The process of installing a garage skylight may vary depending on the size of the garage, the roof structure, whether it is a flat roof or pitched roof as well as the type of skylight you choose. Obviously, for a slanted roof, you'll want to look at pitched roof windows and skylights. In general, there are a few steps involved, including:

  • Choosing the type of roof window. The first thing you'll need to do is decide what kind of skylight you want to install. It all comes down to your personal preferences and the requirements of the space. You can choose from a variety of skylights for flat roofs or roof lanterns. You should also decide whether you want the window to be fixed or operable. 
  • Measuring of the space. It is necessary to measure the area where the skylight will be installed. It is best to hire a professional to take the measurements and ensure that your window fits properly.
  • Cutting the opening. In this step, the roof where the skylight will be installed is cut. It also entails removing some materials and thoroughly cleaning the area.
  • Installing the flashing. The flashing should be installed around the skylight opening to create a seal that is watertight. Usually, this involves attaching the flashing to the roof and skylight frame.
  • Placing the skylight. The window frame is placed into the opening and secured in place. The frame and flashing will be attached to the roof.
  • Sealing the edges. The edges of the skylight frame are sealed to ensure there will be no leaks.
  • Finishing touches. The interior around the skylight should be finished to create a clean and nice appearance. The finishing process may involve installing drywall, trim, or other materials.

Please note that the installation process of a garage skylight can be complicated and usually necessitate the use of specialized tools and knowledge. It is best to hire a professional contractor to ensure that the roof window is installed safely and correctly. If you'd still like to try it yourself, please check out our skylight installation guide first.

How much does adding a skylight to a garage cost in the UK?

The cost of installing a small or medium-sized skylight in a garage can range from £500 to £1500, including materials and labour. High-quality skylights are typically more expensive, with prices starting around £700.

The cost of pitched skylights also tends to be higher than that of flat roof windows. In addition, you can expect to pay more if the installation is complicated or structural changes are required. 

In general, there are a number of factors that can influence the cost of installing a skylight in a garage, including its size, type, and location as well as the complexity of the job.

To get a more accurate idea of the costs for your specific situation, it is recommended that you obtain a quote from a professional skylight manufacturer and contractor. Furthermore, make sure the contractor you hire has the right licensing and insurance.