Using solar light tubes in your home can be a great way to get natural light without installing an expensive window. Solar light tubes are a relatively new resource, but they have several benefits that make them attractive to homeowners. However, they also have their downfalls.
For one thing, they are not always easy to install. You need a lot of space to fit a tube. You also need to be able to lock it in place. Fortunately, most of the top-rated solar tube products come with an installation kit. However, if you do not have the time or expertise to install your own solar tube, you may want to look into hiring a professional. You may even be eligible for a federal income tax credit.
If you don’t have an attic, you may want to consider a solar dome. These are designed to sit flat on the roof and offer balanced light distribution. They have built-in dual diffusers to distribute the light evenly. They also come with a standard acrylic covering.
Solar light tubes are an efficient way to save energy and add value to your home. They also have a range of features to make installation easy. They are a good choice for modern homes. They are also aesthetically pleasing. This is a reason why they are so popular. They are also great for homes with limited space.
The best solar light tubes are those that have a flat glass plate cap. This will prevent serious damage from happening. However, you may want to upgrade to a more durable material, like polycarbonate, if you live in a hurricane-prone area. Also, make sure that the cap is sturdy enough to withstand nibbling or clawing. It is also a good idea to add an air seal around the base of the solar tube. ThisĀ Solar light tubes will help prevent unsightly clumps of seal from forming on the ceiling.
While solar light tubes have numerous benefits, they are not without drawbacks. Some have less durability than others, and others are more expensive. For instance, the ODL EZ14SCANH Tubular Skylight is a great option for small homes, but it does not come with many fancy features. It is also slightly bluish and not as cheap as other mid-range solar tubes.
You may also want to consider a rigid tube solar light. These are ideal for homes with very little roof obstructions. However, they are not as flexible as a tubular light, so they may be more difficult to install. In addition, you may have to install more than one extension. With each extension, you will lose a little bit of light. On the other hand, a rigid tube will not be able to tilt to the right and will also be more difficult to remove.
The best solar light tubes will also come with a good warranty. You can find solar tubes with warranties ranging from ten to twenty-five years. If you are looking for the best quality, look for an Energy Star Qualified product. Similarly, look for a product with a condensation release system, which will prevent moisture damage.