Fixed vs. Venting Skylight: What’s the Difference?

Your home can come alive with added natural light. The effect of sunlight is vital to many homes as it makes the space appear bigger and more welcoming. It brings forth positive energy to keep the atmosphere happy.

Aside from big picture widows, there is another solution that many homeowners resort to when they want their houses to be flooded with the glow of the sun.


Skylights are used in many types of commercial an residential buildings. But modern buildings are the usual patrons of such home design.


On the other hand, many are still left confused about the right kind of skylight to use for their homes and buildings.


Should you install a fixed or venting skylight?

Let’s compare the two:

1. Features

Before you call for a residential roofing service, it’s better to get prior knowledge about the subject matter. Learn the basics such as the features of both options.


First, you should know that a skylight is a type of window usually installed at the ceiling to let natural light inside you house.


There are two most common types of skylight: fixed and venting. Their features are pretty much straightforward. The fixed one cannot be opened. The venting allows you to open and close it to control air circulation.

2. Installation

Fixed skylights are relatively easier to install. They don’t have moving parts, so there is no mechanism to worry about. Venting skylights, on the other hand, will require a little bit of effort from your exterior remodeling contractor.

3. Prices

Venting skylights are more expensive than fixed ones. This is due to the moving parts and electric controls of the former. Fixed skylights normally cost 40% less than vented ones.

4. Advantages

Despite the aforementioned disadvantages of venting skylights, this is where it can lead the competition. The primary advantage of a venting type is the circulation and ventilation of air. It allows hot air to escape and cool air to enter the house. On the other hand, a fixed skylight cannot do such.

Learn More about Skylights

Whether you need a window replacement, new siding, hail storm damage restoration, or a skylight installation, you can count on Timberland Exteriors to deliver the results you’re looking for. Talk to us today by calling (651) 439-1760. We serve Stillwater, MN, and the surrounding communities in Minnesota.

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