Choosing between a curb and deck mounted skylight can be difficult. It is helpful to have a good understanding of the differences between both options and when a professional roofing and window contractor may recommend one over another.
In general, whether a curb mounted skylight or deck mounted skylight is best for your home depends upon the pitch of your roof and your personal preference.
The Basics: What Is A Curb Mounted Skylight?
A curb mounted skylight is more common than a deck mounted skylight. This skylight type is attached to the roof with a boxed wooden frame; an opening is cut into the roof to place the frame.
Due to the wooden frame, the skylight is much more visible from outside the home. Although custom sizes are available, the standard size for a curb mounted skylight is 2 feet by 6 feet. The skylight itself is placed within the frame.
The Pros And Cons Of A Curb Mounted Skylight
Many existing skylights are curb mounted. If you are replacing an existing curb mounted skylight, then you can save money by replacing it with another curb mounted skylight.
This is also the preferable option if you desire a standard size, whereas deck mounted skylights are easier to customize since they do not use a wooden frame. A curb mounted skylight is not as energy efficient as a deck mounted skylight in most cases and it is much more visible from outside of the home.
When To Consider A Curb Mounted Skylight
Curb mounted skylights are most common for flat roofs or roofs that have less than a 14 degree pitch. In this instance, the curb for the skylight is less noticeable and subsequently less of a factor. Curb mounted skylights do not work as well if the pitch of the roof is much steeper.
The Basics: What Is A Deck Mounted Skylight?
Deck mounted skylights are less common but have grown in popularity over the past decade as many feel they provide a more modern look.
With a deck mounted skylight, the curb is the skylight itself, and there is no need for a wooden frame. This helps disguise the skylight from the exterior of the home and can help improve energy efficiency. They work for various roof types, including shingle, shake, metal, and tile roofs.
The Pros And Cons Of A Deck Mounted Skylight
A deck mounted skylight offers optimal curb appeal since it does not rely upon a frame that extends from the roof. In essence, a deck mounted skylight is directly parallel with the roof.
In addition, a deck mounted skylight offers improved energy efficiency as well, keeping air from your HVAC inside your home and keeping outdoor air outside for optimal climate control. Deck mounted skylights are typically not as ideal for flat roofs or roofs with a low pitch.
When To Consider A Deck Mounted Skylight
A deck mounted skylight works well for roofs that have a 14 to 85 degree pitch. Many also prefer a deck mounted skylight on a lower pitched roof as well due to the energy efficiency benefits it can provide.
For most homeowners, the primary appeal of a deck mounted skylight is that it is less noticeable from outside of the home, which can improve curb appeal, while still providing all the same benefits as a curb mounted skylight from inside the home.
How To Choose Between A Curb vs Deck Mounted Skylight
As discussed, the pitch of your roof to a large degree dictates whether a curb mounted skylight or a deck mounted skylight is more appropriate. If your roof has a low pitch or is flat, then a curb mounted skylight is often recommended, whereas a deck mounted skylight typically works well for when the roof is steep.
In addition, the desired appearance from the exterior of your home can play a role in your decision making process as well. If you want a skylight that is not as noticeable from outside your home, then a deck mounted skylight is generally the better option.
This is because a curb mounted skylight uses a wooden frame that is much more visible from the exterior. Also, a deck mounted skylight is more energy efficient on average than a curb mounted skylight.
The best way to determine whether a curb vs deck mounted skylight is best for you is to discuss the pros and cons of both options with a professional roof and window contractor who can consider the specifics of your project needs.
Contact The Skylight Professionals At Adelphia Exteriors
Adelphia Exteriors can help you through the decision-making and installation process for your home or business skylights. We have years of experience and genuinely enjoy helping our clients in the northern Virginia area achieve their home exterior goals.