As Kiwis, we take pride in our DIY attitude and Kiwi ingenuity, but when it comes to installing a skylight to save a few bucks, it’s worth thinking twice. Velux skylight installation isn’t just another home project—it’s a complex task that requires precision and expertise. Instead of diving in headfirst, consider these five compelling reasons why trusting professionals with your Velux skylight window installation might be the wiser choice.
5 Things To Consider with Velux Skylight Installation
1. Safety Concerns
Performing any work at heights carries the risk of falling if adequate measures aren’t taken. Sun windows and skylights are an all too frequent cause of falls from height, often due to debris or moss covering the roof or window surface. Other times, people may simply assume that skylight windows are sturdy enough to bear their weight and will intentionally sit or stand on them.
Experienced installation experts, unlike beginners or DIYers, have a good understanding of skylight load capacities. They are trained to follow safety protocols and know how to navigate these hazards to prevent falls, injuries, and serious accidents.
Additionally, skylight materials can be very heavy and may require the use of specialised tools that can be difficult or awkward to handle for first-timers. If you're not familiar with their operation or lack confidence in your abilities, it's best to hire professionals who possess the necessary skills and experience for safe and effective Velux skylight installation.
2. Lack of Expertise & Compliance Issues
Skylight installation isn’t just about cutting a hole in the roof and popping a window in. It’s a complex, multi-step process that involves precise measurements, careful cutting, and most importantly, thorough sealing.
Without the necessary skills, DIYers can make mistakes such as incorrect placement or improper sealing that could lead to significant damage to both the skylight and your home. Hence, it’s better to leave the job to the pros to avoid such complications.
Building Code Compliance
Another thing homeowners often overlook is building permits. While it might seem like a bureaucratic hurdle, getting the necessary permits is essential for making sure your project meets local building codes and safety standards. New Zealand, like many countries, has a comprehensive permit process that involves submitting documentation and detailed plans of your proposed work.
It’s not just about filling out forms and ticking boxes, but partnering with experts who understand local regulations and can guide you through the process seamlessly while maintaining the integrity of your home. This is where hiring a reputable company like Suntrenz becomes invaluable.
We take care of all the consents and paperwork and take care of any necessary permits for you. This ascertains not only your home’s safety but also prevents any future legal issues that may arise from non-compliance.
3. Potential for Leaks and Damage
During skylight installation, homeowners can skip critical steps that can result in issues like roof leaks, potentially causing serious water damage to your home’s interior and structural elements. Such problems can manifest as unsightly stains, promote mould growth, and compromise the stability of ceilings and walls.
Unfortunately we see it all the time. Poor installation practices can weaken the structural integrity of the roof over time, necessitating more extensive and expensive skylight repairs down the line.
To avoid these pitfalls, it’s advisable to invest in professionals. Their expertise guarantees accuracy at every stage, from selecting the right Velux skylight window to applying a secure, watertight seal. By entrusting the installation to professionals, you can reduce the risk of future leaks, the need for skylight replacement down the track and other avoidable skylight costs.
4. Void Warranty and Insurance Issues
Many skylight manufacturers offer warranties for their products; however, these warranties typically come with conditions, such as requiring installation by certified professionals. Not following these conditions can void the warranty, leaving you unprotected if any issues arise.
Velux skylight windows have a 10yr manufacturing warranty. By hiring professionals experienced in Velux skylight window installation, you can ensure compliance with warranty terms and gain peace of mind knowing that your investment is secure and well-protected.
Similarly, it's important to be aware of how skylights can affect your roof warranty. Roof warranties are in place to protect your roof investment, but certain factors can void them. Fixtures such as satellite dishes, solar panels, and skylights, if not installed properly, can compromise your roof warranty.
Therefore, it’s best to have a skylight installation expert work with your roofing contractor to protect the integrity of your roofing material and maintain your warranty coverage.
5. Time and Cost Efficiency
Installing a skylight yourself might seem budget-friendly at first, but hidden skylight costs can quickly add up. Mistakes during installation can result in drafts, leaks, and other issues that could end up being more expensive to fix. These problems might lead to subsequent skylight repairs or even replacements down the road, making the DIY approach pricier in the long run.
In addition to this, DIY installation requires a significant time commitment. Unlike professional installers who can swiftly handle the job, doing it yourself can take much longer, especially if you lack experience. The time spent on researching, planning, and executing the installation could be substantial, and any errors made along the way could further delay the process.
When weighing these factors alongside the potential skylight cost increases, opting for professional services may prove to be a more practical and economical decision.
Final Words on DIY vs Velux Skylight Window Installers
Velux skylight installation can be a challenging task that requires skills and specialised knowledge. While some homeowners may try to take matters into their own hands to save money, hiring skylight installation experts is clearly a smarter choice. Suntrenz is well-regarded for its proficiency in this domain, providing dependable skylight installation services.
With over thirty years of combined team experience, our experts are familiar with the best practices, materials, and techniques required for a successful Velux skylight installation. We can save you from costly mistakes and ensure a lasting, delightful addition of natural light and joy to your home for years to come.
If you’ve any other Velux questions or would like us to come and do a free in-home assessment, feel free to chat with us. We’re here to assist you in choosing the perfect match—whether it’s a Velux skylight window or a sun tube—for your specific space.