Skylights can turn a dark and dingy room into one of the brightest and airiest places in your home. However, these same skylights can also warm up a room. With the summer sun high overhead, your skylight can actually let, as much as, four times the amount of heat into your home than your standard window. This can make your room uncomfortable and, if you use an air conditioner, your electric bill can soar.

Before giving up on the idea, there are accessories available to meet some of these concerns. Shades can reduce some of the sun's heat while allowing you to regulate outdoor lighting.
Consideration can be given to a ventilating skylight which can be opened to emit some of the hot air that rises to the ceiling. These also allow for airflow within the room. Some of today's skylights come equipped with pleated and roller shades or venetian blinds. Besides limiting the sun's heat, these can also protect your furniture and carpets from fading while providing you a measure of privacy. Also available are rain sensors that close automatically during unexpected rain.

The roof's pitch and design will also have a bearing on the skylight you might choose. Roofs with trusses usually can only accommodate narrow skylights that can fit between the trusses. Roofs with rafters can be cut allowing greater flexibility in design and location.

While adding to the interior of your home, be careful not to detract from the external appearance. Consider carefully its placement as well as the overall architecture before deciding. Before making your final decision, talk to an expert in this area to have your concerns addressed.