Lack of natural light affects moods and wellbeing. It is important to make the most of less daylight by bringing the light inside. Consumed in a responsible way, natural sunlight is the best available source of vitamin D which plays a key role in bone strength and immune functions.
East Gosford (NSW) resident, David Kinghorn, installed Skywindows and Skytubes from Skydome Skylight Systems, and has experienced the benefits of skylights in winter. The townhouse which he purchased, has high ceilings and does not let in enough natural light. To keep it light and airy, he decided to install Skywindows in the living area, kitchen and bedroom. This offered privacy and added brightness to the rooms. Skylights also help in lowering electricity bills.
According to Michael Bonello, Managing Director, Skydome Skylight Systems, and Marketing Chair of the Skylight Industry Association, skylights provide a good spread of natural light and make rooms feel fresher. Skylights can let in up to three times more daylight than a wall-mounted window of the same size. Householders must select their skylights carefully to prevent unwanted heat loss or heat gain and to also balance the light requirement for individual rooms.
Products from Skydome Skylight Systems are manufactured using Skyguard, a material that eliminates 99% of harmful UV rays. The products’ thermal properties also ensure minimal heat loss during winter and minimal heat gain during summer.
Skydome products are custom-made to suit Australian conditions and the moulded and robust flashings offer water tightness. They are suitable for use in rooms with little or no natural light to improve overall ambiance and light levels, and can be used to create lighting effects.
In addition to being used to brighten interiors, skylights are also energy efficient as they reduce the use of electric lighting throughout the day, meaning a reduction in a building’s total energy consumption and the associated emissions of carbon dioxide.
Skydome Skylight Systems offer three types of skylights each with unique features and applications: Skydome, Skytube and Skywindow. The original Skydome skylights are available in a wide range of sizes and models, and come in square and rectangular variations as well as circular and pyramid shapes.
The Skytube, a tubular skylight, is suitable for bathrooms, hallways, kitchens, walk-in robes or any room too small to install a traditional Skydome but still in need of natural light. Skytubes are also suitable for larger rooms that require task lighting. Skywindows from Skydome Skylight Systems are suitable for reclaimed attics and lofts to add natural light and ventilation.