Tips

04 10 2023

The Economic Benefits of Skylights: Energy Savings and Beyond

Skylights, while often celebrated for their aesthetic appeal and ability to connect indoors with nature, also present a range of economic benefits. For homeowners in New Zealand, where sustainability and energy efficiency are becoming paramount, skylights stand out as not just a design choice but also a smart financial investment.

Energy Savings

Natural Illumination: Skylights reduce the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours, leading to significant electricity savings.
Thermal Regulation: With advancements in glazing technology, skylights can reflect excessive heat during summers and trap warmth during winters, reducing the reliance on heating and cooling systems.

Boost in Property Value

Aesthetic Appeal: Homes with skylights often have a unique selling point, attracting potential buyers who value natural light and modern design.
Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient homes are increasingly in demand in the NZ housing market. Skylights, especially those with advanced features like UV protection and insulation, can enhance a property’s energy rating.

Sustainability and Rebates

Eco-friendly Living: As New Zealand moves towards sustainable living practices, skylights play a role in reducing a home’s carbon footprint.
Potential Rebates: Some local councils or energy providers might offer rebates or incentives for homes that incorporate energy-saving features, including skylights.

Health & Well-being Dividends

Reduced Health Costs: Natural light is known to boost mood, improve sleep, and enhance overall well-being. This can indirectly lead to reduced health costs due to fewer ailments and better mental health.
Productivity Gains: For those working or studying from home, spaces with ample natural light can boost productivity and reduce eye strain, leading to better work outcomes.

Maintenance and Durability

Longevity: Modern skylights are designed to be durable, withstanding the test of time and the elements, ensuring homeowners don’t have to spend on replacements frequently.
Low Maintenance: Unlike some other home fixtures, skylights require minimal maintenance, leading to long-term cost savings.

In Conclusion: Skylights, beyond their undeniable charm, bring tangible economic benefits to the table. For New Zealanders, they represent a fusion of design and practicality, a testament to how thoughtful architectural choices can have lasting financial and ecological impacts.

04 10 2023

Innovations in Skylight Design: The Future of Daylighting in New Zealand

5hccs Tips

As we look to the future of interior design and architecture in New Zealand, the emphasis on sustainability, smart tech, and holistic living is clear. Skylights, a beloved feature in many Kiwi homes, are not left behind in this wave of innovation. They are being reimagined, integrating cutting-edge technologies and designs to cater to the evolving needs of homeowners.

Smart Skylights

Automated Adjustments: Today’s skylights come equipped with sensors and automation. They can adjust their tint based on sunlight intensity, ensuring optimal light inflow without the glare.
Climate Control: Modern skylights can aid in temperature regulation, with the ability to reflect excessive heat during summers and retain warmth during winters.

Sustainable Materials

Eco-friendly Glazing: The focus is on materials that are sustainable and energy-efficient. UV protective layers, for instance, not only protect interiors but also reduce energy consumption.
Recycled Frames: Frames made from recycled or upcycled materials are gaining traction, aligning with the global shift towards sustainable living.

Integrated Solar Panels

Power and Light: Some skylights now come with integrated solar panels. While they let in light, they also harness solar energy, serving a dual purpose.
Energy Independence: Such integrations pave the way for homes to be more energy-independent, reducing electricity bills and carbon footprints.

Dynamic Designs

Tubular Skylights: For spaces that can’t accommodate traditional skylights, tubular designs channel daylight into even the most inaccessible corners of a home.
Artistic Flair: Skylights are evolving from mere windows to art pieces, with stained glass, intricate frames, and other design elements making them stand out.

Health & Well-being Integration

Circadian Rhythm Syncing: Innovations are on the horizon where skylights will adjust their light inflow to sync with human circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep and overall well-being.
Air Purifying Features: Future skylights might incorporate materials that purify the air, ensuring that, along with light, homes receive clean, pollutant-free air.

In Conclusion: The future of skylights in New Zealand is bright and innovative. As the lines between indoor and outdoor living blur, and as sustainability becomes paramount, skylights are set to play an even more integral role in the architectural narrative of Aotearoa.

Man close new skylight (mansard window) in an attic room against blue sky

04 10 2023

Choosing Skylights in NZ’s Varied Climates

5hccs Tips

New Zealand, renowned for its stunning landscapes, also boasts a unique climatic tapestry. This diverse weather profile, from sun-kissed beaches to snow-capped peaks, poses both challenges and opportunities for homeowners considering skylights.

Understanding NZ’s Climate

Coastal Regions: Areas like Northland, Bay of Plenty, and the West Coast experience humid conditions, with salt-laden winds. Skylights in these regions need corrosion-resistant frames and effective sealing against moisture.
Temperate Regions: Places like Auckland and Wellington have a moderate climate but can experience heavy rainfall. Drainage and leak prevention become paramount.
Alpine & Cold Regions: The Central Plateau and parts of the South Island can get quite chilly. Here, skylight insulation is crucial, both for comfort and energy efficiency.

Factors to Consider

Material Durability: Opt for materials that can withstand specific regional challenges, whether it’s salt from coastal breezes or the weight of alpine snow.
Glazing Options: Double or triple glazing can offer better insulation, crucial for colder regions. Tinted glazing can mitigate the intensity of direct sunlight in sunnier areas.
Ventilation Features: In humid areas, being able to open the skylight to allow for airflow can prevent mould and condensation.

Installation & Maintenance

Professional Assessment: Before installing, get a professional assessment. They can advise on the best position, size, and type of skylight based on your home’s location.
Routine Checks: Especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall or snow, regular checks can ensure the skylight remains sealed and insulated.

Case Study – The Otago Oasis: A detailed look at a Dunedin home that perfectly integrated skylights to combat the colder southern climate. By choosing top-tier insulation and positioning the skylights strategically, the homeowners enjoy abundant light without compromising on warmth.

In Conclusion: New Zealand’s climatic diversity demands a thoughtful approach to skylight selection. By understanding regional challenges and focusing on durability, insulation, and functionality, homeowners can enjoy the myriad benefits of skylights, irrespective of the weather outside.