Incorporating skylights into commercial or industrial properties can transform spaces drastically. Apart from the wide range of benefits that come with skylights, having a custom design specific to your property can truly help you set your commercial or industrial space apart.
Custom skylights offer tailored solutions to meet specific architectural and functional needs. However, there are a number of ways custom skylights can go wrong as well. You AND the skylight manufacturer working on your project need to keep several things in mind to ensure a lasting solution.
Understanding the options available, their limitations, and the potential tax rebates can help you make informed decisions that maximize benefits and savings. This framework will help you make a better decision; financially, functionally, and aesthetically.
Custom Skylight Options
As the name suggests, when it comes to custom skylights, sky’s the limit. There is no template to follow, but they can be classified into different design categories. Some of these include:
- Fixed Skylights: Fixed skylights are non-operable units designed primarily to allow natural light into a space. They are ideal for areas that do not require ventilation, such as hallways, conference rooms, and warehouses. Customization options include various shapes, sizes, and glazing types to suit different architectural styles.
- Ventilated Skylights: These skylights can be opened to allow air circulation, making them suitable for areas that need ventilation, such as kitchens, restrooms, and industrial workspaces. Custom features can include automated venting systems, rain sensors, and remote operation.
- Tubular Skylights: Tubular skylights are compact and ideal for spaces where traditional skylights are not feasible. They channel sunlight through reflective tubes, providing natural light to areas such as corridors, storage rooms, and small offices. Custom options may include adjustable tubes and diffusers to control light distribution.
- Pyramid and Dome Skylights: These skylights offer unique aesthetic appeal and are often used in atriums, lobbies, and large industrial spaces. Customization can include different materials, colors, and sizes to create striking visual effects and match the building's design.
- Photovoltaic Skylights: Integrating solar panels into skylights allows for the generation of renewable energy while providing natural light. These skylights are ideal for environmentally-conscious businesses aiming to reduce energy costs and carbon footprint. Customization can involve the type and efficiency of solar cells used.
What Does A “Custom Skylight” Really Mean?
The word “Custom skylight” goes beyond standard sizes and shapes, offering tailored solutions to meet specific needs. It is still a skylight; just designed differently.
This can involve unique dimensions, specialized glazing for improved insulation or UV protection, and advanced features like automated controls and integrated shading systems. Custom skylights are designed to blend seamlessly with the building's architecture while providing the desired functionality.
However, while custom skylights offer many benefits, they also have limitations. The complexity of the design can increase costs and extend installation times. There may be structural constraints, especially in older buildings, that limit the size and type of skylights that can be installed. That’s why you need an experienced, certified skylight manufacturer to help you with a custom design.
Additionally, highly customized skylights may require more maintenance and specialized parts, which can impact long-term costs.
Tax Rebates and Savings
There are several tax rebates that further add value to custom skylight solutions for your commercial or industrial property.
- Federal Tax Credits: The federal government offers tax credits for energy-efficient improvements, including skylights. To qualify, skylights must meet ENERGY STAR® guidelines, which ensure they provide significant energy savings. As of the current guidelines, homeowners can claim 10% of the cost, up to $200 for skylights.
- State and Local Incentives: Many states and local governments provide additional incentives for installing energy-efficient skylights. These can include rebates, tax credits, and reduced permit fees. Property owners should check with local energy departments to find available programs.
- Utility Company Rebates: Some utility companies offer rebates for installing energy-efficient skylights. These programs often require pre-approval and may include specific criteria that must be met. Property owners should contact their utility providers for more information.
- Long-Term Savings: Beyond tax rebates, custom skylights can lead to substantial long-term savings. Reduced reliance on artificial lighting lowers electricity bills, and improved ventilation can decrease HVAC costs. Over time, these savings can offset the initial investment in custom skylights.
To ensure that you get the most out of the rebates and saving options available, you should work with expert architects and skylight manufacturers to design custom solutions that meet the building's needs. Choose skylights that provide the right balance of light, ventilation, and energy efficiency. Ensure the designs comply with local building codes and ENERGY STAR® requirements for tax rebates.
Furthermore, remember to keep detailed records of all expenses related to the purchase and installation of custom skylights. Consult with a tax professional to ensure you take full advantage of available credits and rebates. Stay informed about changes in tax laws that may affect your eligibility for future incentives.
In modern architecture, custom skylights are not just an investment in the building’s aesthetics and functionality but also in long-term financial and environmental sustainability. For more information on custom skylight options and tax rebates, contact an expert today. Let us help you get your project on track and ensure longevity through design and material.