Q: We are doing a major kitchen remodeling project, and our contractor wants to add a 45X45-inch skylight to the kitchen design. Should I worry about it leaking? Will the kitchen get too hot during the day?
A: Once upon a time, say 10 or 20 years ago, leaky skylights were a big kitchen design concern. But improved materials and new technologies have made them trouble-free, provided they are installed correctly.
Manufacturers test new skylights in wind tunnels to ensure they'll withstand wind-driven rain with no leakage. Of course, for a leak-free future, you should use experienced installers and have the installation reviewed by both the contractor and the building inspector.
Heat certainly is a consideration in warmer climates, especially in rooms where the ceilings are only 8 feet high. To minimize heat problems, choose glass with a high insulating factor and position the skylight as far as possible from other heat sources in the kitchen. For example, a stove in the island and a skylight overhead is probably a bad combination.
If the ceiling is vaulted, consider one you can open (motorized or manual) to vent the heat, or install two half-size skylights placed sufficiently apart to diffuse the concentration of heat. Some skylights are available with motorized shades to block direct sunlight when needed.
