Start with the job you want the skylight to do.
A fixed skylight brings daylight through the roof. An opening skylight adds an operable sash so it can also provide ventilation when open. Neither choice is automatically better: think about the room, how it is already ventilated, the height of the opening and your preferred way to control it.
| Choice | Main purpose | Discuss before quoting |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Daylight without an opening sash. | Glazing, position, blinds and the room’s existing ventilation. |
| Manual opening | Daylight with manually controlled ventilation. | Safe reach, opening height and compatible operating accessories. |
| Powered opening | Ventilation with powered controls. | Available model, power or solar requirements, controls and maintenance access. |
Can you comfortably operate it?
Describe the height from the floor to the proposed skylight and whether furniture or stairs sit below it. A manually operated unit needs a practical way to reach its control. If the opening is high or awkward to reach, discuss the powered options available in the selected range.
Do not assume every size has the same motor, remote, sensor or blind options. Have those accessories identified by model in the quote. Plan any electrical work and confirm who is responsible for it.
Think beyond the opening mechanism.
In a bedroom, ask how you will control early morning light. In a kitchen or living room, explain the room’s orientation and where glare could be a problem. Opening operation and a blind solve different needs, so consider both when they are relevant.
For a bathroom, describe the existing extraction and ventilation arrangement as part of the brief. The suitability of the complete room design needs review; choosing an opening skylight alone does not establish that every ventilation requirement is met.
Which product range should you compare?
VELUX skylights have distinct flat and pitched roof ranges, with fixed and opening model families. Custom Atlite skylights are worth discussing when the dimensions or architectural brief call for a tailored configuration. Start with the roof and dimensions before narrowing the operation.
For a low-slope roof, read our flat roof skylight guide. For rooftop access, look at Atlite Skydoors: an opening skylight selected for ventilation should not be assumed suitable for people to pass through.
Compare the complete quote.
Ask for the model and size, roof work, flashing, internal lining, controls, blinds and any electrical work to be listed. Confirm product warranty terms and installation responsibilities separately. The installation cost guide helps you compare the same scope between proposals.
Send your suburb, room, roof type and opening preference with your enquiry. If you are undecided, choose “Help me choose” and describe what you want to improve.