Top 4 Types of Skylights for the Home
Transform Spaces With Natural Light
Skylights are an excellent way to bring natural light and ventilation into the home. Offering a range of styles to suit different needs, skylights are perfect for enhancing the aesthetics of your space and improving energy efficiency.
What Can Skylights Offer?
Skylights provide maximum natural light to the home with openable skylights offering the added benefit of ventilation. Yet not all skylights are made equal. There are many styles and sizes to choose from, including fixed skylights, manual skylights, solar skylights and electric skylights. Most have the following features included;
- High-performance glazing blocks 70-80% heat, depending on the product
- Blocks harmful UV rays to protect furniture and floors
- Perfect for allowing maximum light into the home
- Enhances thermal properties and energy efficiency of the home
- Self-cleaning coating to glazing for added convenience
- Most quality skylights are compatible with blinds to block sunlight when required.

Bowens range of skylights are built specifically to withstand Australian conditions. They have a 5-star WERS (Window Energy Rating Scheme) rating, ensuring their energy efficiency. Additionally, they are cyclone, load, and water tested (AS4285), and meet Australian standards (AS1288).
Here are the top 4 types of skylights and their benefits.
Solar Skylights
For those looking for a skylight that offers more than just light, solar skylights are a perfect choice and allow for ventilation as well. They operate via a wall-mounted keypad, providing ease of use and convenience.
These solar-powered skylights come with a concealed, rechargeable battery pack that gives them a streamlined and modern look. Designed with rain sensors which automatically close the skylight when they detect moisture, they also feature options such as sensor-based ventilation and can even be operated using a smartphone app.
Electric Skylights
Electric skylights provide the ultimate convenience for those who want easy access to light and ventilation. These skylights come equipped with rain sensors that automatically close the skylight when it detects rain, preventing water from entering your home. It is controlled by a wireless keypad, and the installation is simple using a plug-in system. Designed with a pre-installed electric motor and control system, electric skylights provide smooth, automated operation.
Manual Skylights
For a more cost-effective option, manual skylights are a great choice. These skylights allow for extra natural light and ventilation but require manual operation using a winder to open and close them. Despite being manual, they still provide great benefits in terms of ventilation and natural light, making them a practical solution.
Fixed (Non-Opening) Skylights

Fixed skylights, also known as non-opening skylights, are an excellent solution when ventilation isn’t a concern, but natural light is. These skylights are commonly used as replacements for older acrylic dome skylights. They are cost-effective and available in a variety of sizes, making them a versatile option for any part of the home. While they don’t offer ventilation, fixed skylights can dramatically improve the atmosphere of a room by letting in natural light, brightening the space without the need for artificial lighting.
Skylight Accessories
Skylights have a range of suitable accessories available to ensure they function to the best of their ability. These include EZi Tray for quick and simple installation, solar powered blinds, telescopic rod control, winding handle for manual skylights and skylight interface units.
Choose the Right Skylight for Your Home
Skylights are a great addition to any home, offering a way to maximise natural light, improve ventilation, and create a more energy-efficient living environment. Whether you choose solar skylights, electric skylights, fixed or manual skylights, there’s an option to suit every home and budget.
Explore our range of skylights from reputable brands such as VELUX Skylights, Infiniti Skylights or Keylite Skylights, for a product you can trust. Shop online at Bowens or drop into one of our stores today.
Want to know what the key benefits of Skylights are? Read our blog, “5 Advantages of Installing Skylights.”
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