At nSkylights, we love helping homeowners, designers, and builders bring natural light into their spaces the right way. Skylights are a game-changer when it comes to adding warmth, visual appeal, and energy efficiency to a home or commercial space. But if you're considering metal framed skylights, there are a few important things you need to keep in mind before making your final decision.
Skylights might seem like a simple addition, but choosing the wrong type—or skipping over key details—can turn your bright idea into a major headache. From sizing issues to improper placement and forgetting about weather performance, we've seen it all.
So, to help you avoid common pitfalls, we’ve put together a helpful guide on what not to do when selecting and installing metal framed skylights. Let’s dive in and make sure your skylight project is smooth, successful, and full of sunshine!
Why Metal Framed Skylights?
Before we get into the mistakes, it’s worth revisiting why metal framed skylights are such a popular choice in the first place.
Metal frames—typically made from aluminum or galvanized steel—offer durability, strength, and a sleek, modern look that complements many architectural styles. They're resistant to weather damage, require minimal maintenance, and can support larger panes of glass compared to wood or vinyl frames. That means more light and longer-lasting performance.
But even the best materials can underperform if the skylight is chosen or installed incorrectly. So let’s take a closer look at some of the most common errors we see people make.
1. Not Considering the Climate
One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing a skylight without considering the climate they live in. Metal conducts heat, and without the right insulation or thermal breaks, a skylight that works well in Arizona might be a problem in Minnesota.
Skylights in cold climates need features that prevent heat loss, such as double or triple glazing and insulated frames. In hotter climates, you’ll want glazing options that reduce solar heat gain to keep your interiors cooler.
At nSkylights, we offer models specifically designed for different weather conditions, including skylights with thermal breaks and UV-coated glazing that help regulate indoor temperature year-round.
2. Choosing the Wrong Size
It’s easy to think “bigger is better” when it comes to skylights. After all, more glass means more light, right?
Not always.
Oversized skylights can lead to excessive heat loss in winter, unwanted heat gain in summer, and even structural concerns if your roof isn’t equipped to support the added weight. On the other hand, a skylight that's too small might not give you the light impact you're hoping for.
The size of your skylight should be proportional to the size of your room. A good rule of thumb is that skylights should be no more than 5% of the floor area in a room with plenty of windows—or up to 15% in a room with fewer windows.
Working with a professional installer or consulting with nSkylights can help you find the right size for your needs.
3. Poor Placement
Placement is everything.
Installing a skylight in the wrong part of your roof can affect both how much light you get and how your space functions. Skylights on a north-facing slope provide consistent, soft light throughout the day, while south-facing skylights bring in more direct sun (and more heat). East-facing skylights welcome in morning light, and west-facing ones light up the late afternoon.
If you install a skylight where it doesn’t align with the sun’s natural path—or worse, right above a space where glare is an issue—you could end up regretting it.
Skylights should also be placed where they won’t interfere with existing rafters, pipes, or vents. A professional inspection and design consult can save you from these headaches.
4. Ignoring Ventilation Needs
A lot of people don’t realize that skylights can also serve as ventilation tools, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, or any room prone to moisture buildup.
Skipping vented options can be a missed opportunity.
A vented skylight allows hot air to escape and brings in fresh air, making it great for improving indoor air quality and comfort. And thanks to new technologies, you can now get vented skylights with rain sensors and remote controls for added convenience.
If you’re designing for a stuffy or humid space, talk to us at nSkylights about adding a venting feature to your skylight plan.
5. Overlooking Glazing Options
Glass might just look like glass—but there’s a lot going on behind the scenes.
The type of glazing you choose for your metal framed skylight affects everything from insulation to UV protection and glare control. Choosing basic, single-pane glass could lead to higher energy bills or uncomfortable temperature swings.
Here are some options to consider:
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Low-E Glass: Helps reflect heat and UV rays while keeping light levels high.
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Tempered or Laminated Glass: Provides added safety and noise reduction.
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Tinted or Frosted Glass: Ideal for privacy and softening direct sunlight.
By skipping these options—or not learning about them—you might end up with a skylight that doesn't perform the way you want it to.
6. Skipping Professional Installation
We get it—DIY is tempting. But when it comes to skylights, especially metal framed skylights, improper installation is one of the top reasons for leaks, drafts, and long-term damage.
Cutting into your roof isn’t something you want to take lightly. It requires knowledge of structural support, weatherproof flashing, sealing, and insulation.
Hiring a professional ensures that your skylight is installed correctly and safely. It also gives you access to product warranties and workmanship guarantees—something you won’t get with a DIY approach.
At nSkylights, we offer expert installation services that meet local codes and manufacturer standards, so you can rest easy knowing your skylight is set up for success.
7. Neglecting Maintenance Planning
Metal framed skylights are low-maintenance—but not no-maintenance.
Neglecting routine care, such as cleaning the glass or checking seals and flashing, can lead to long-term problems like leaks, fogging, or energy loss. It’s important to factor in how easy the skylight is to access for cleaning and inspection when choosing a location.
You should also keep an eye on:
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Gutter buildup around the skylight
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Condensation or interior fogging
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Any signs of frame corrosion (rare, but possible in harsh environments)
The good news? Quality skylights like the ones we offer at nSkylights are built to last and designed for easy upkeep. A little care goes a long way.
8. Forgetting About Aesthetics
Function is key—but looks matter too.
Skylights are visible both inside and outside your home, so it’s important to choose a style and frame finish that matches your architectural design. Fortunately, metal framed skylights come in a range of finishes and shapes—from sleek rectangles to curved or pyramid styles.
You can also choose internal trim or coverings to match your interior decor. Want a bold black metal frame for a modern space? Or a neutral gray for a minimalist look? We can help you find the perfect aesthetic match.
Remember, a skylight isn’t just a source of light—it’s a design element. Treat it like one.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing a skylight should be an exciting upgrade, not a frustrating challenge. When done right, metal framed skylights can add tremendous value, comfort, and style to your space. But like any part of your home or building project, they require thoughtful planning.
Avoiding the common mistakes above will help you enjoy the full benefits of your skylight for years to come—without surprise problems or regrets.
At nSkylights, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. From choosing the right size and placement to installation and aftercare, we take the guesswork out of daylighting. Let’s make your space brighter, smarter, and absolutely beautiful.
Get In Touch:
Name: nSkylights
Address: 1400 E. Higgins Road Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
Phone No: (847) 439-7049