Are you thinking about whether or not to install a skylight in your home? If yes, then you are in the right place.
With years of experience in the roofing industry, I can tell you for sure that skylights can be a great addition to your roof. Skylights not only have the ability to brighten up your living space, but can also provide fresh air and a sense of openness.
However, choosing the right type of skylight can be a perplexing decision. Should you go for a curb-mounted skylight or a deck-mounted skylight?
| Feature | Curb-Mounted | Deck-Mounted |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Method | Mounted on raised curb (2×6 lumber frame) | Installed flush with roof surface |
| Best For Roof Pitch | Low-pitch or flat roofs | Steeper roofs (minimum 3:12 or 14-15°) |
| Aesthetic | Traditional, raised profile | Sleek, modern, low-profile |
| Installation Complexity | Requires carpentry for curb construction | Professional flashing required (0.5-3 days) |
| Insulation | Superior thermal protection | Standard insulation |
| Drainage & Ventilation | Excellent (raised design) | Standard |
| Replacement Ease | Easy to replace without roof work | Requires roof structure access |
| Maintenance | Standard | Low-maintenance, long-lasting |
Curb-Mounted Skylights: Timeless Elegance and Efficiency
Curb-mounted skylights have long been a symbol of timeless elegance in home design. Their classic appearance and numerous benefits have made them a popular choice among homeowners looking to add natural light to their living spaces.
What Is A Curb-Mounted Skylight?
As the name suggests, this is a skylight that the contractor will install on a curb. Before installing the skylight panel, a wooden frame (the curb) is built and cut into the roof. Over this, the skylight is placed, which gives it an outward appearance, also setting it apart from deck-mounted skylights, also our next topic of discussion.
Usually, the curb-mounted skylight is created using 2×6 lumber, which forms the standard curb size. However, these curbs can be custom-built to fit the exact specifications of the skylight, ensuring seamless and watertight integration with your roofing system.
Advantages Of Curb-Mounted Skylights
Higher Sunlight:
Curb-mounted skylights are strategically positioned higher on your roof. This elevated placement maximizes the amount of sunlight that enters your living space, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
Versatility in Size and Shape
The design flexibility of curb-mounted skylights is another key feature that makes them a favored choice among homeowners and architects. These skylights can be customized in various sizes and shapes to align with your architectural preferences and the unique layout of your home.
Easy To Install & Replace
As a homeowner, you want a project completed without any hold-ups or hassle. A curb-mounted skylight installation is exactly like this. Your roofing contractor will be able to install it faster in comparison to other types of skylights. You also won’t have to wait for a shipment of materials, as 2×6 lumber is widely available.
These skylights are even easier to replace, reducing labor costs. Because the skylight is installed over the curb, and has separate flashing, you can replace this type of skylight without worrying about reflashing the entire unit.
Leak-Proof Design
One of the primary concerns when it comes to skylights is the potential for leaks. Curb-mounted skylights are designed with leak prevention in mind. When correctly installed and sealed, they create a tight and secure seal between the skylight and the roof.
Proper Drainage and Ventilation
The raised curb design provides excellent drainage and ventilation benefits. This elevation ensures that water flows away from the skylight efficiently, preventing pooling and potential water damage. The improved ventilation also contributes to the skylight’s overall efficiency and longevity.
Deck-Mounted Skylights: Modern Elegance and Simplicity
Deck-mounted skylights offer a modern and streamlined approach to introducing natural light into your home. They are designed to be installed close to the roof deck, and are a better option for pitched roofs, providing a clean and contemporary aesthetic.
What Is A Deck-Mounted Skylight?
The deck-mounted skylight got its name from the way that it is installed. Unlike a curb-mounted skylight, which is installed on top of a raised curb, the deck-mounted skylight is directly installed on top of the roofing material and typically has a low profile.
Advantages Of A Deck-Mounted Skylight
Great Aesthetic
The standout feature of a deck-mounted skylight is its sleek and modern design. As these are installed directly on the roof, and not on a separate curb, these skylights seamlessly blend with contemporary and minimalist architectural styles.
Low-Maintenance
Deck-mounted skylights often require less maintenance compared to their curb-mounted counterparts. The absence of a raised curb increases energy efficiency and reduces the risk of debris accumulation. Reflecting this priority, energy-efficient models now account for approximately 65-70% of residential purchases. With occasional cleanings and routine inspections, you can ensure that your deck-mounted skylight continues to perform optimally.
Versatility: A Solution for Any Roofline
Deck-mounted options can be installed on a wide range of roof styles and are ideal for homeowners with unique architectural designs or unconventional spaces. This flexibility makes them a practical choice for various roofing configurations beyond traditional pitched roofs.
Longevity: Built to Last
These skylights are designed to withstand the elements and are built to last, minimizing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. With proper installation and maintenance, they provide a lifetime of natural light and energy savings.
Variety and Customization
Deck-mounted skylights come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and glazing options, allowing homeowners to customize the look and functionality to suit their specific needs and preferences. This wide selection ensures you can find the perfect match for your home’s design and lighting requirements.
Choosing the Right Fit
Selecting the right skylight for your home ultimately depends on your specific requirements and the style of your property. Here are some factors that you need to consider, before you make your final decision.
1. Roof Pitch
Curb Mounted: These skylights are ideal for roofs with a lower pitch. These are also your go-to options if your property has a flat roof. This is because the raised curb helps with water drainage, which is often the problem on flat roofs.
Deck Mounted: Deck-mounted skylights, on the other hand, are more suitable for roofs with a higher pitch (minimum pitch of 3:12 or approximately 14-15 degrees). These offer a sleek look and better seal.
2. Aesthetic Preferences
Curb Mounted: Great for homes with a more traditional or classic architectural style.
Deck Mounted: Perfect for contemporary or modern homes, thanks to their modern, and sleek design. Curb-mounted skylights seem bulky as they are built on a raised platform.
3. Insulation Needs
If energy efficiency and insulation are top priorities, deck-mounted skylights may be the better choice. You can install a curb-mounted skylight if you live in milder climates where insulation is less of a concern.
4. Installation Complexity
A curb-mounted skylight is easier to install and may be a suitable DIY project for those with some roofing experience. If you have none, calling a contractor is essential.
Deck-mounted skylights require professional assistance and typically take 0.5-3 days to complete. While they involve minimal disruption to your existing roofing structure compared to building a new curb, the specialized flashing requirements make professional installation necessary. This makes them a cost-effective and convenient solution when you want to avoid complex framing and cutting into your roof.
5. Renovation Scope
Roofs with Limited Accessibility: Deck-mounted skylights are ideal when you want to avoid a complete roof overhaul and don’t want major structural changes. They provide a convenient way to add natural light without extensive renovations, making them perfect for homeowners who need to work around existing roof constraints.
| Your Situation | Recommended Type | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Flat or low-pitch roof | Curb-Mounted | Raised design prevents water pooling and ensures proper drainage |
| Steep roof (14°+) | Deck-Mounted | Flush installation complements roof angle and modern aesthetics |
| Priority: Energy efficiency & insulation | Curb-Mounted | Superior thermal protection from raised curb structure |
| Priority: Sleek, minimal appearance | Deck-Mounted | Low-profile design blends seamlessly with roofline |
| Limited roof accessibility or avoiding major renovation | Deck-Mounted | Minimal disruption to existing structure; no curb framing needed |
| Need for easy future replacement | Curb-Mounted | Skylight unit can be replaced without modifying roof structure |
| Unique architectural design or unconventional roof | Deck-Mounted | Versatile installation on wide range of roof styles with customization options |
Install A Brand New Skylight With Our Team At Capital Roofing
After reading about these two popular types of skylights, you are now more aware of their differences and benefits. Whether you decide to install a curb-mounted skylight or a deck-mounted skylight, or just have a few questions, Capital Roofing is your go-to contractor with all the answers.
We install the best skylights from leading manufacturers. Contact us today at (918) 260-4075, and find out how we can help you!
Can I switch from a curb-mounted to a deck-mounted skylight during a replacement?
Yes, but it requires significant modifications to your roof structure. The existing curb must be removed, the opening may need resizing, and new flashing systems installed. This conversion is best done during a major roof renovation when structural changes are already planned.
What happens if I install the wrong skylight type for my roof pitch?
Installing a deck-mounted skylight on a low-pitch roof can lead to water pooling and increased leak risk, while curb-mounted units on steep roofs may create unnecessary bulk. Always match the skylight type to your roof’s pitch specifications to ensure proper water drainage and structural integrity.
Do curb-mounted and deck-mounted skylights require different maintenance schedules?
Curb-mounted skylights need more frequent inspections of the curb-to-roof seal and potential debris removal around the raised structure. Deck-mounted units require less frequent maintenance but need careful monitoring of the integrated flashing system. Both benefit from annual professional inspections and semi-annual cleaning.
How do extreme weather conditions affect each skylight type differently?
Curb-mounted skylights handle heavy snow loads better due to their raised profile promoting natural shedding, while deck-mounted units excel in high-wind areas with their aerodynamic, low-profile design. In regions with severe hail, both types benefit from impact-resistant glazing, though curb-mounted units offer slightly better protection from the elevated angle.
Will adding a skylight affect my home’s resale value differently depending on the type?
Both types enhance home value by adding natural light, but deck-mounted skylights often appeal more to buyers seeking modern aesthetics, while curb-mounted units attract those valuing traditional design and easy replaceability. The impact depends more on proper installation and matching your home’s architectural style than the specific type chosen.
