DIY Skylight Cover: Save Energy and Money Today!

Skylights, while beautiful, can contribute to significant energy loss if not properly addressed. Energy bills often reflect this inefficiency, pushing homeowners to seek cost-effective solutions. A diy skylight cover, implemented using the right tools and materials from stores such as Home Depot, offers a straightforward way to combat these issues. This project provides not only a method for reducing energy consumption but also allows homeowners to take control of their home’s insulation.

DIY Skylight Cover: A Layout for Savings and Comfort

This outlines an effective article structure for a "DIY Skylight Cover" guide, designed to help readers save energy and money. The focus remains on providing clear, practical instructions.

Understanding the Need for a DIY Skylight Cover

• Introduction to Skylight Issues: Start by explaining why skylights, while aesthetically pleasing, can be energy drains. Mention heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. Highlight issues like glare and potential UV damage to furniture.
• Why DIY?: Briefly discuss the cost benefits of creating your own skylight cover compared to professional solutions. Emphasize the satisfaction of a DIY project.
• Article Goal: Clearly state that this article will guide readers through building an effective and affordable DIY skylight cover.

Planning Your DIY Skylight Cover

Assessing Your Skylight

1. Measurement is Key: Explain the importance of accurate measurements. Include instructions on how to measure the skylight’s length, width, and depth (if recessed).
2. Skylight Type: Briefly describe common skylight shapes (rectangular, domed, circular) and materials (acrylic, glass). Mention that different shapes might require slightly different construction approaches, which will be addressed later.
3. Location Considerations: Discuss how skylight orientation (facing east, west, south) might influence the choice of materials and design.

Choosing the Right Materials

• Insulation Options: Discuss various insulation materials:
  • Reflective foam boards (e.g., foil-faced polyisocyanurate). Explain their high R-value and ability to reflect sunlight.
  • Insulating batting (e.g., fiberglass or mineral wool). Discuss their affordability and ease of installation.
  • Fabric or quilts. Highlight them as a more aesthetic option offering some insulation, but lower than dedicated insulation materials.
• Covering Materials: Suggest options for the visible face of the cover:
  • Fabric (linen, blackout curtains). Explain their aesthetic appeal.
  • Decorative panels. Suggest lightweight, paintable options.
  • Wood. Use for a more robust and stylish finish.
• Construction Materials: List essential items like:
  • Wood for framing (if applicable).
  • Fasteners (screws, nails).
  • Adhesive (for securing insulation).
  • Measuring tape, saw, cutting tools.

Building Your DIY Skylight Cover: Step-by-Step

Option 1: Simple Foam Board Cover

1. Cutting the Foam Board: Provide detailed instructions on cutting the foam board to the correct dimensions, ensuring a snug fit. Include tips on using a utility knife safely and accurately.
2. Adding Reflective Surface: Explain how to apply reflective tape or foil to the exterior-facing side of the foam board for increased heat reflection.
3. Securing the Cover: Describe methods for securing the cover in place:
   • Friction fit (if the skylight well is narrow).
   • Using small magnetic strips on the cover and frame.
   • Adding small blocks of wood to the edges of the cover to create a secure fit.
4. Troubleshooting: Address common issues like gaps and how to seal them effectively using weather stripping or foam sealant.

Option 2: Framed Fabric Cover

1. Building the Frame: Provide clear instructions on building a simple wooden frame to the dimensions of the skylight opening. Include diagrams.
2. Insulating the Frame: Explain how to line the inside of the frame with insulation material (foam board or batting).
3. Attaching the Fabric: Describe how to stretch and secure the fabric over the frame, creating a taut and aesthetically pleasing finish. Options include stapling, using upholstery tacks, or creating a sewn pocket for the frame.
4. Securing the Framed Cover: Detail methods for securing the frame to the skylight opening, similar to Option 1 (magnetic strips, wood blocks).

Option 3: Customized Insulated Panel

1. Choosing the Panel Material: Discuss options like lightweight plywood or plastic panels.
2. Adding Insulation: Explain how to attach insulation (foam board) to the back of the panel.
3. Finishing the Panel: Describe options for finishing the visible side of the panel:
   • Painting.
   • Applying decorative wallpaper or contact paper.
   • Attaching fabric.
4. Creating a Removal System: Explain different removal options such as handles and hinges.
5. Securing the Panel: Detail methods for securing the panel to the skylight opening with magnets, latches, or a custom-built track.

Tips for Maximizing Energy Savings

• Reflective Surfaces: Emphasize the importance of reflective surfaces for maximum heat rejection.
• Proper Sealing: Stress the need to seal any gaps around the cover to prevent air leaks.
• Seasonal Adjustments: Suggest removing the cover during winter days to allow some sunlight in, and replacing it during cold nights.
• Regular Maintenance: Explain how to clean the cover and check for any damage or wear and tear.
• Ventilation: Explain whether a skylight is designed to be opened and ventilated and if the DIY cover would impede this function. If so, recommend only using the cover during periods where ventilation is not needed.

Cost Breakdown

Present a table showing the estimated cost of materials for each DIY skylight cover option.

Material	Option 1 (Foam Board)	Option 2 (Framed Fabric)	Option 3 (Insulated Panel)
Foam Board	\$X	\$X	\$X
Fabric	–	\$Y	\$Y
Wood (for Frame)	–	\$Z	\$Z
Fasteners/Adhesive	\$A	\$A	\$A
Estimated Total	\$B	\$C	\$D

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Condensation: Address potential condensation issues and suggest solutions like adding a vapor barrier.
• Difficulty Removing the Cover: Provide tips for making the cover easier to remove.
• Damage to the Skylight Frame: Caution against using methods that could damage the skylight frame.
• Incorrect measurements: Explain how to recover from incorrect measurements when cutting materials.
• Cover is too heavy: Explain different ways to decrease the weight of the cover.

And there you have it! Hopefully, you’re feeling ready to tackle creating your own diy skylight cover. Good luck, and let us know how it goes!