Adding a skylight is one of the best ways to bring natural light into your home. But before cutting into your roof, you’re probably asking the most important question: how much is a skylight? The answer depends on several factors – type, size, frame material, labor, and the condition of your roof. At American Quality Remodeling, we’ve installed skylights across New Jersey and Pennsylvania and understand what really drives costs up or down.
Whether you’re building new, updating a dark room, or replacing an old unit, this guide will explain everything that affects skylight pricing so you can budget smart and avoid costly surprises.
The total cost of a skylight project isn’t just about the window itself. Several elements impact the final price, starting with the style and size of the skylight you choose. Larger skylights naturally cost more, and vented models are typically more expensive than fixed ones.
Roof structure also plays a major role. For example, labor costs will be higher if your home has a steep roof pitch or if you’re working with a flat ceiling that requires a light shaft. Interior finishingâlike painting, drywall, and trimâcan also add to the total.
Homeowners often ask how much is it to install a skylight without realizing how much the frame material and window type matter. Let’s break those down.
The three most common types of skylights are fixed, vented, and tubular. Each has a different price range and purpose. Fixed skylights are the most affordable – they don’t open but are ideal for lighting up spaces like hallways, staircases, or bathrooms.
Vented skylights offer both natural light and ventilation. These can be operated manually or electronically and come with a higher price tag due to the added functionality. If you’re asking how much is a new skylight with a remote control or rain sensors, expect to pay more than a basic fixed model.
Tubular skylights (also called sun tunnels) are the most cost-effective. They’re great for small rooms and work well when full skylight framing isn’t possible.
|
Skylight Type |
Average Cost Range (Product Only) |
|
Fixed Skylights |
$200 – $600 |
|
Vented Skylights |
$300 – $1,200 |
|
Tubular Skylights |
$150 – $500 |
Skylight installation adds significantly to the final cost, which we’ll cover below.
Another major factor in how much a skylight costs is the type of frame it uses. The most common options are vinyl, aluminum, and wood.
Vinyl frames are affordable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance. They’re popular in modern homes and cost less than wood but more than aluminum. If you’re wondering how much is a skylight frame made from vinyl, prices typically range from $100 to $300 depending on size and brand.
Aluminum frames are strong, lightweight, and resist corrosion, but they can transfer heat more easily, which may reduce energy efficiency if not properly insulated. They are often used in commercial or flat-roof applications. Expect frame costs between $75 and $250.
Wood frames offer a warm, traditional look, especially for interiors with exposed ceiling beams. However, they require more upkeep and are the most expensive option – running anywhere from $250 to $500+ just for the frame.
At American Quality Remodeling, we help homeowners in NJ and PA weigh the pros and cons of each frame option so you don’t overpay for features you don’t need – or miss out on ones that matter.
If you’re researching how much is a skylight window in today’s market, it’s important to look at current numbers. In 2025, prices have risen slightly due to inflation and supply chain costs, but quality skylight options are still widely available at different price points.
The total cost depends on the style, brand, glazing type, and whether the unit is fixed or vented. Keep in mind, window-only pricing is just one part of the investment – you also need to budget for installation, finishing, and potential framing work.
Let’s take a closer look at pricing by skylight type.
Fixed skylights are the simplest and most cost-effective option. They don’t open but provide consistent natural light and are popular for stairwells, hallways, and vaulted ceilings. If you’re asking how much a skylight of this type is, the product typically runs between $200 and $600.
When professionally installed, expect the total cost to range from $800 to $1,800, depending on the size of the skylight and the condition of your roof. These windows work best on steep-slope roofs and don’t require any mechanical components, making them the easiest to install and maintain.
Vented skylights let in sunlight and fresh air. They’re perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, or any room that benefits from ventilation. If you’re wondering how much is it to install a skylight that opens, manual vented units usually cost $300 to $900 for the window alone. Electric or solar-powered vented skylights cost more – typically $800 to $2,200 for the unit, depending on brand and features.
Once installation is factored in, the total cost for a vented skylight ranges from $1,500 to over $3,000. Homeowners often choose solar-powered options to take advantage of energy credits, which we’ll cover later.
If you’re considering how much is a new skylight with rain sensors or remote controls, know that these features raise the price, but add serious convenience and modern comfort.
Tubular skylights (also called sun tunnels) are a great solution for small or enclosed spaces with limited roof access. They’re smaller in diameter and use a reflective tunnel to direct light from the roof to the interior ceiling.
So, how much is it to add a skylight of this type? Tubular skylights cost between $150 and $500 for the product itself, with total installed prices typically falling in the $750 to $1,500 range. They’re less expensive because they require less structural work and are faster to install. They’re a solid, budget-friendly option for homeowners looking to brighten a hallway, laundry room, or closet.
Labor is a big part of any skylight budget. If you already have a skylight picked out, the next question is: how much is it to install a skylight in your specific home? Labor costs vary depending on your location, the difficulty of the install, and the type of roof.
In New Jersey and Pennsylvania, basic installation for a fixed skylight typically starts at $500 to $900, while vented skylights or jobs involving ceiling modifications can run $1,000 to $2,500 or more. Roof access, steep pitches, and multi-story homes may require extra time, safety gear, or support framing, increasing labor charges.
Our team at American Quality Remodeling provides clear, up-front pricing with no hidden fees. We explain every line item so you know exactly where your money is going.
You might be tempted to install a skylight yourself to save money. But ask yourself: how much is it to install a skylight correctly the first time – versus paying for repairs later? Professional installation ensures watertight sealing, code compliance, and proper flashing. It also protects your manufacturer warranty, which is often void if a certified installer isn’t used.
DIY projects may look simple, but skylights require structural cuts, careful sealing, and sometimes electrical work. One small mistake can lead to roof leaks, mold, or heat loss.
Hiring pros is worth the investment if you’re serious about quality and protecting your home.
Not all skylight jobs are the same. Some installs take half a day. Others stretch into multi-day projects due to framing or finishing needs. The cost depends on three key things: your roof pitch, your ceiling type, and what kind of interior finishing is required.
A steep or high roof needs more safety equipment and time. A flat ceiling requires a custom light shaft to connect the roof opening to the ceiling below. Labor will be higher if you want a finished interior look with drywall, insulation, and custom trim.
So when people ask how much is it to add a skylight, the answer always starts with, “It depends on your home.” That’s why we offer free consultations to give you a precise estimate based on your spaceânot a one-size-fits-all number.
When homeowners start researching skylight pricing, one of the most common questions is whether to install a skylight for the first time or replace an existing unit – because the cost difference can be significant. So, how much is a new skylight compared to a replacement?
Installing a skylight in a brand-new location requires cutting into the roof, framing, flashing, interior finishing, and possibly electrical work if you choose a vented or solar-powered model. That’s why the full cost to add a skylight ranges from $1,200 to $3,500+, depending on size and type. Complexity, roof pitch, and access can all raise the price.
By contrast, replacing a skylight in an existing opening is much more straightforward – especially if the structure underneath is in good shape. You’re typically just removing the old unit, sealing the opening properly, and installing the new skylight. This process skips the structural and finishing work, which can significantly lower labor costs.
If you’re wondering how much is it to replace a skylight, here’s what you can expect in 2025. For a standard fixed skylight replacement (product and labor), the average cost ranges from $700 to $1,500. For vented skylights – especially those with solar power or electric controlsâthe cost may run $1,200 to $2,500, depending on the features and roof access.
Keep in mind, if the existing frame or surrounding roofing materials are damaged or leaking, additional repair work may be needed. That can increase both time and cost. We always inspect the area first to avoid surprises.
At American Quality Remodeling, we offer honest assessments and will tell you upfront whether replacement is your best move – or if a full new install or repair is more cost-effective in the long run.
In some cases, homeowners ask if a repair can solve the issue instead of a full replacement. It’s a fair question – especially when leaks or condensation appear. If the skylight is fairly new, has no frame damage, and the flashing is still intact, repairs might make sense.
However, if the skylight is 10â20 years old, discolored, or has recurring issues, repairing it is often throwing money at a short-term fix. Moisture between panes or drafty seals typically means the insulation value is gone. And with older models, finding replacement parts may be difficult or impossible.
So, how much is it to replace a skylight compared to repairing it? Minor repairs like flashing or sealant might cost $150 to $400, but if you’re spending close to that on an outdated skylight, investing in a new one gives you a longer-lasting result – and may come with a warranty.
We’ll always help you weigh your options and provide pricing for both so you can make the most informed choice for your home and budget.
When budgeting for a skylight, most homeowners focus on the window and basic installation. But to understand the real cost, it’s important to factor in a few often-overlooked expenses. These can affect your total investment, especially if you plan a new installation or upgrade to a powered skylight.
Hidden costs can add up if your ceiling needs finishing, electrical work is involved, or structural adjustments are required to make the skylight fit safely and function properly. These are not just cosmetic extras but essential for a complete, code-compliant install.
Let’s break down the most common add-on expenses you should be aware of when asking how much is it to add a skylight to your home.
Once your skylight is installed, the job isn’t quite done. In most cases – especially with a brand-new skylight – your contractor must build out the shaft from the roof to your ceiling and finish the interior area. That includes drywall, insulation, painting, and trim.
So how much is a new skylight, including interior work? Depending on the complexity of the ceiling and the size of the shaft, finishing costs can range from $300 to $1,200. Vaulted ceilings typically cost less, while flat ceilings with deep shafts require more materials and labor.
Trim options also vary. You can keep it simple with clean drywall lines or upgrade to decorative molding, which adds to the aesthetic and the budget.
If you’re choosing a motorized skylight – whether electric or solar-powered – you’ll need electrical wiring for the controls. This work must be done by a licensed electrician and coordinated with the installation schedule.
The wiring cost depends on how far the skylight is from the nearest power source. Basic setups start around $150 to $300, while more complex wiring – especially in older homes – can reach $500 or more. Installing wall-mounted keypads or home automation controls also adds to the price.
When customers ask how much is it to install a skylight with power or rain sensors, we always include the full electrical scope in the estimate to avoid surprises.
Not all homes are skylight-ready. Sometimes framing has to be altered to make room for the new window. This is especially true when rafters or trusses conflict with the skylight’s position.
Framing adjustments can include cutting and reinforcing roof joists, building a custom curb for flat roofs, or adjusting ceiling support. These tasks require experience and precision to maintain roof strength and avoid compromising the structure.
Structural modifications can cost anywhere from $400 to $1,500+ depending on the amount of work needed. The good news? Our team at American Quality Remodeling always inspects and measures before installation to anticipate these needs in advance – so your estimate is clear from day one.
You can buy the best skylight on the market, but if it’s installed poorly, you’ll have leaks, drafts, and long-term issues. That’s why the cost of a skylight should never be your only concern. Who installs it – and how they do it – is just as important, if not more.
Skylights penetrate one of the most critical barriers on your home: the roof. Improper flashing, poor sealing, or shortcuts in installation can lead to water damage, mold, insulation failure, and costly repairs down the line. And while DIY kits exist, they rarely match the quality and durability of a professionally installed system.
At American Quality Remodeling, we don’t just install skylightsâwe install them right. We follow manufacturer guidelines, use premium flashing systems, and make sure every skylight we install meets building code requirements across New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Our work is backed by warranty and trusted by homeowners who want results that last.
In the end, peace of mind is worth more than any savings on a quick, low-cost installation.
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