Solatube® installation questions
How easy is it to install a Solatube®?
Solatube® Daylighting Systems have been engineered to make installation as easy as possible with fewer parts to assemble and easy-install features such as 'easy snap' dome, pre-installed dome spacers, twist-fit ceiling ring and push on/off ceiling diffuser. Both the Solatube® 160 DS and 290 DS fit easily between standard roof rafters with no structural changes, and no need to build a skylight shaft. The two 0-30 degree adjustable angles supplied with every Solatube® Daylighting System offer ease of installation around attic obstructions. Full installation instructions are supplied with each purchase or see our Installation overview page for a quick guide.
How long does it take to install a Solatube® Daylighting System?
An experienced installer can install a Solatube® system in two to three hours. For the novice installer, more time should be allowed.
Should I install the Solatube® Daylighting System during or after installing a new roof?
Solatube® Daylighting Systems may be installed as a retrofit or during the building process.
What if there is no attic space?
Solatube® Daylighting Systems are designed for installation even where there is no access to the attic or no attic at all.
Can a Solatube® be installed through a wall?
Yes, it is possible to install a Solatube® Daylighting System to pipe daylight through a wall or into a basement. Certain factors must be taken into consideration when planning to install in this manner – please contact us for advice.
Will a Solatube® work in a caravan, house boat or mobile home?
Yes, and they install easily without structural modifications. Solatube® Daylighting Systems are a great solution for the dark interiors that can result from windows shaded by caravan awnings and patio covers.
Will Solatube® Daylighting Systems illuminate ground floor rooms of a two-story house?
If there is an appropriate route for the tubing to run from the diffuser to the dome then it is possible to use a Solatube® Daylighting System. The 99.7% super-reflective Spectralight® Infinity material used in Solatube® Daylighting Systems means that very effective light delivery is possible with tube lengths of up to 6 metres for the Solatube® 160 DS, 9 metres for the Solatube® 290 DS and 15 metres for the Solatube® 330 DS.
Will a Solatube® work with the dome installed on the north side of a roof?
Yes, a Solatube® Daylighting System will work on the north side of a roof although a dome situated on a south- east- or west-facing aspect will generally capture more light throughout the year.
Do I need planning permission to install a Solatube®?
Most applications do not require planning permission, however, for specific local advice please contact your local planning office. In Conservation areas or for listed buildings, you should seek prior approval from your local Planning Office. Solatube® roof domes are discreet and unobtrusive, and are often preferred by Planning Officers over conventional windows or roof lights or dormer windows.
Are flexible tube systems easier to install?
Despite their inefficiency in transferring light, some people are tempted to buy flexible tube systems because they believe they are easy to install. However, to achieve any chance of being able to transmit the best (for a flexible tube!) level of light, the flexible tube has to be pulled tight and be very firmly fixed to minimize the concertinaed effect of the tube. In practice, this is very difficult to achieve. Also, a Solatube® Daylighting System will deliver up to 10 times more light than a flexible duct system.
