Everyone wants to optimize light penetration and energy efficiency. In order to make the right industrial skylights choice, there are a few key considerations to bear in mind.

Integrated skylights improve the well-being of the building’s occupants and the overall performance of the building. Natural light improves our mood; it eliminates mold and mildew, and of course, saves energy.

In recent years, insulated skylight (roofliight) assemblies have seen significant improvements with more effective seals and better thermal performance.

This leads to a growing utilization of insulated skylights with insulated metal panels (IMP’s) in industrial and commercial roof and wall systems.

Polycarbonate sheets show great strength and impact resistance, and are an optimal solution for longevity and durability, but choosing the right material is not everything.

Before you specify your skylight system, here are few points to consider:

1. Match the skylight thermal properties to your energy needs.
Energy loss is a major concern, and specifying suitable thermal insulation properties of the skylight will help mitigate this potential loss.

2. Choose the right optical properties.

Choosing the right optical properties and light transmission level for your skylight system will help you achieve an optimal environment. Polycarbonate insulated skylights can effectively optimize interior lighting with minimal glare, while reducing solar heat gain.

3. Orientation is the key.

Placement and orientation of your skylights are key factors in maximizing lighting effectiveness. During the planning phase, determine the best location to achieve optimal lighting and to avoid obstructions. Choosing the configuration that maximizes efficiency in terms of energy conservation, should be based on the building’s orientation and the local climate.

4. Look for perfect match.

Matching the skylight system to the roofing system is critical for preventing leaks, whether you retrofit an existing roof or build a new warehouse. There are many available solutions. Choosing a system that overlaps perfectly with the IMP makes a huge difference in ease of installation, in water resistance and in long-term performance.

5. Follow the instructions.

High quality polycarbonate insulated skylights require proper installation. Make sure your installers have the proper training for the system and that they are backed up by the manufacturer’s technical support team. An improperly mounted skylight system may let water penetrate between the seams and may also lead to energy loss. In order to achieve optimal results it is crucial to carry out all required installation steps!

As you plan your next project, think how you can integrate natural light most efficiently, to make the indoor environment more pleasant, and improve the overall energy efficiency of the structure. Expect only the best results and look for these solutions from your supplier. Modular systems such as Palram’s SUNBOX polycarbonate insulated skylight system can be matched to a wide range of climates and insulation values.

Controlling the visible light transmission with optional blocking of up to 80% of the Infrared (IR) radiation, SUNBOX optimizes the utilization of solar energy while also maintaining the envelope’s thermal performance.

To Learn More

Contact Palram’s construction & architecture professional team for consultation.

Learn more about Palram’s skylight solutions.