Photo Credit: VELUX
Let There Be Light
Four Benefits of Skylights and Roof Windows
Behold, the power of natural light! The O.G. of illumination and the gold standard of glow. It's superior to all other light sources and for good reason. Natural light plays an important role in programming our biological clocks. A healthy dose of sunshine can reduce stress, strengthen immunity, fight off depression, and help you live longer. Still, Americans spend an average of 90 percent of our time indoors, and those little rays of wellness are hard to emulate. So, here's a bright idea: Install a skylight. You'll reap benefits beyond your health, and with current tax incentives, the price might not be as sky-high as you think. Let's shed some more light on the impact a skylight can have on your home.
Increased Exposure to Natural Light
Spending more time in natural light can do wonders for your well-being. As we mentioned above, sunshine is linked to a variety of health benefits. It can elevate your mood, increase your creativity, improve your sleep and reduce your anxiety. Additionally, exposure to natural light helps your body produce vitamin D, which helps strengthen your bones and immune system.
Improved Air Quality
Vented skylights can increase the airflow in your home, exposing you to more fresh air, which can improve your digestion, immune system, blood pressure and heart rate. Fresh air is also cleaner. The EPA estimates indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air.
Energy Savings
More sunlight in your home means more solar heat, which can put a dent in your energy bill during the cold months. For the warmer seasons, a vented skylight can increase airflow, cooling down your home and cutting down on your A/C usage. Skylights also brighten up dark spaces, reducing your need for artificial light sources. But the savings don't stop there. Solar-operated skylights are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit off your products and installation.
Increased Equity
Investing in a skylight can add value to your home. Analysis shows homes equipped with green technology can sell for up to 10 percent higher than other comparable homes. Natural light also helps with the maintenance of your home by warding off mold and fungal growth. Additionally, natural light can improve your home's aesthetics. It makes rooms look bigger and better without sacrificing privacy, a common problem with windows.
Chek out these home transformations from VELUX Skylights: