For years, skylights have been a major roofing upgrade, transforming dark and enclosed spaces into bright, open areas filled with natural light. Homeowners and business owners alike have enjoyed the benefits of skylights, and a properly installed one can help you reduce energy costs, improve appearances, and increase property value.
But here’s the problem, while skylights can be installed on the majority of roofs, issues can still happen. They work well on certain types of roofs and in specific situations, but for homeowners with flat roofs or spaces where a traditional skylight isn’t practical, they aren’t always the best option. That meant many homeowners were left in the dark — literally.
That’s where sun tunnels made their mark. You may have heard of them, but what exactly are they? How do they work? And, are they worth the investment?
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about sun tunnels and help you determine if they’re the right solution for your home.
What Are Sun Tunnels?
Sun tunnels are an innovative type of skylight that aims to bring natural light into interior spaces where traditional skylights cannot be used. They are usually cylindrical in shape, which is why they are commonly known as solar tubes or tubular skylights.
Sun tunnels solve a major problem that comes with having skylights. Unlike traditional skylights, which require significant structural changes and a large opening, sun tunnels offer a compact, efficient alternative. You can install them in smaller, compact areas of the home, not just the attic.
They work by capturing sunlight on the roof and channeling it through a reflective tunnel into the interior of your home or commercial space. This creates the effect of natural daylight without requiring electricity or major roof modifications.
Sun tunnels are ideal for spaces that lack windows or direct access to natural light, such as hallways, bathrooms, storage rooms, offices, and other enclosed areas. They provide soft, diffused natural lighting (reflecting the sun’s glow), making interiors feel more open, comfortable, and welcoming.
The Parts of a Sun Tunnel
A sun tunnel consists of three main parts, each playing a critical role in ensuring maximum light transmission and ensuring that the skylight works effectively.
Roof-Mounted Dome
The roof-mounted dome is the main part that differentiates a sun tunnel from a regular skylight.
It sits on top of the roof and is responsible for capturing natural sunlight. This is the part that is visible on the roof, and many popular options are usually made of high-impact acrylic or polycarbonate. This gives the sun tubes a tough structure and makes them durable enough to withstand the harsh weather of Wisconsin, including heavy rain, hail, and snow.
Some models feature light-capturing technology, which helps maximize sunlight collection, even on cloudy days or during early morning and late afternoon hours when the sun isn’t at its peak.
Reflective Tube
This part isn’t visible on the roof but forms the body of the solar tube. The reflective tube serves as the pathway that transports sunlight from the roof to the room below. This tube is made from highly reflective material, allowing it to maintain up to 98% of the captured light’s intensity, and it can be rigid or flexible:
- Rigid tubes offer better light transmission and are ideal for long, straight paths.
- Flexible tubes can bend around obstructions like rafters or pipes, making them more versatile for complex installations.
Ceiling Diffuser
To complete the process, there is a ceiling diffuser at the bottom of the tunnel. Inside the home or building, the ceiling diffuser spreads the sunlight evenly throughout the room. The diffuser helps soften the light to prevent harsh glare while distributing it in the best way possible. Some diffusers come with built-in filters or dimmers, allowing you to control the amount of light that enters the room.
Pros of Sun Tunnels
There are several reasons why you should consider installing a sun tunnel, especially when you do not have a skylight. Here are some advantages:
Cost-Effective Way To Increase Natural Light
Compared to traditional skylights, which require extensive roof modifications, sun tunnels are more affordable, both in terms of initial cost and installation. While a skylight can cost thousands in labor and materials, a professionally installed sun tunnel typically falls within the $500 to $1,500 range. This makes them a budget-friendly option that gives you enough natural light.
Energy Savings
Sun tunnels reduce your reliance on artificial lighting, leading to lower electricity bills. Since they operate purely on sunlight, they require no power source. Though these might not be as effective for your halls, they are more than valuable for smaller areas like your bathroom, kitchen, or even the bedroom. Your interior will remain well-lit throughout the day at no extra cost. Over time, this can add up to significant energy savings, especially for commercial properties that use lighting extensively.
Quick and Simple Installation
Unlike traditional skylights, which may take several days to install and require structural changes to your roof, sun tunnels are quick and easy to install. Solar tube installation is often completed in just a few hours. Because they are compact and require only a small opening in the roof, they minimize disruption to your home or business. You just want to ensure you have a professional complete the installation for you.
Minimal Heat Gain or Loss
Traditional skylights can sometimes lead to unwanted heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter. Because sun tunnels are smaller and use insulated reflective tubes, they maintain a consistent indoor temperature. This makes them a more energy-efficient option for those looking to add light to their home without impacting their heating or cooling costs.
Perfect for Small or Windowless Spaces
If you have a bathroom, hallway, walk-in closet, or office that lacks windows, a sun tunnel can transform the space by bringing in soft, natural light. Unlike traditional windows or skylights, which require large openings, sun tunnels fit into tight spaces where adding a window isn’t possible.
Cons Of Sun Tunnels
Are there any downsides to consider? Yes, solar tubes have some limitations. Here are some things you should know about before you install them:
No Outside View
Unlike skylights, which provide a clear view of the sky, sun tunnels do not offer any visual connection to the outdoors. If you’re hoping to enjoy a panoramic sky view or a stargazing experience, a traditional skylight may be a better choice.
Limited Direct Sunlight
Sun tunnels diffuse light rather than allowing direct sunlight to enter the space. While this creates a soft and even lighting effect, it may not be as bright or direct as a large window or skylight. If you want strong, direct sunlight, a traditional skylight may be a better option.
Less Customization
There is less versatility in sun tunnels when you compare them to skylights. Most of the sun tubes have a similar design and these are usually not as effective in improving the look of your home.
How Much Do Sun Tunnels Cost?
The cost of a sun tunnel depends on its size, brand, and installation complexity. For example, Skylights created by premium manufacturers might cost more overall but also come with better quality and warranties.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
Basic sun tunnel installation: $500 to $1,500
Larger or premium models: $1,500 to $3,000
Custom installations for commercial buildings: Varies based on roof type and complexity
Top 3 Sun Tube Skylights In The Market
VELUX Sun Tunnel Skylights
The VELUX Group is a leader in daylighting solutions, and their sun tunnels are no exception. Available in both rigid and flexible models, VELUX sun tunnels feature high-impact domes, excellent light capture technology, and Energy Star certification.
Natural Light Energy Systems
Natural Light offers affordable yet durable solar tube skylights that are easy to install and come with a 25-year warranty. Their systems include high-quality aluminum flashing for leak resistance and UV-inhibiting domes to protect your interiors.
Solatube® Daylighting Systems
Solatube is known for its advanced optical technology, including their patented Spectralight® Infinity Tubing, which offers one of the highest reflectivity rates in the industry. Skylight systems from this company are perfect for both residential and commercial applications.
Find The Best Sun Tunnel Installation Services In Northeastern Wisconsin
If you want to introduce more natural light into your home, sun tunnels are absolutely worth considering. They provide cost-effective, energy-efficient daylight without the drawbacks of traditional skylights. However, proper installation is key to preventing leaks and maximizing performance, and this is where Prestige Roofing LLC can help.
Our team specializes in high-quality skylight services in Wisconsin, including sun tunnel installations for residential and commercial flat roofs. We ensure your installation is leak-proof, efficient, and built to last. Call us today at (920) 791-0414 to learn more.