Living near the coast comes with beautiful views and refreshing sea breezes—but also extra wear and tear on your home due to salty air, wind, and moisture. When it comes to coastal skylight installation, choosing the right materials makes all the difference in performance and durability.
If you’re planning to add natural light to your coastal home with a skylight, it’s important to use materials designed to withstand the unique challenges of coastal environments. In this post, we’ll cover the best skylight materials for coastal homes, why they matter, and how to ensure your installation lasts for years.
Why Material Choice Matters for Coastal Skylight Installation
Skylights can enhance your home by adding light, reducing energy costs, and improving ventilation. However, homes located near the ocean face a lot of exposure to salt, humidity, and strong winds. Poor material choices can lead to corrosion, leaks, or even total failure of the skylight over time.
That’s why every part of the skylight—from the frame to the glass to the flashing—should be made from materials that hold up well in high-moisture, high-salt environments. A quality coastal skylight installation not only protects your home but adds lasting beauty and value.
Top Skylight Frame Materials for Coastal Homes
The frame is what holds your skylight together. It also plays a major role in how well your skylight resists moisture, wind, and salt.
1. Vinyl Skylight Frames
Vinyl is a popular option for skylight materials for coastal homes because it’s naturally resistant to corrosion and doesn’t warp or rot. It also requires very little maintenance and provides good insulation.
2. Aluminum Frames with Protective Coating
Aluminum is strong and lightweight, making it a common choice. However, in coastal settings, it must be powder-coated or anodized to resist corrosion. Treated aluminum frames can last a long time with the proper finish.
3. Fiberglass Frames
Fiberglass is another excellent option for coastal skylight installation. It’s durable, energy-efficient, and resistant to warping, corrosion, and moisture. It’s a bit more expensive, but worth it for long-term durability in harsh conditions.
Best Skylight Glazing Options for Coastal Areas
The glazing—or the glass portion of the skylight—should be able to handle UV rays, wind pressure, and the constant exposure to salty air.
1. Tempered Glass
Tempered glass is heat-treated for strength and safety. If it ever breaks, it shatters into small pieces rather than sharp shards. It’s ideal for impact resistance in storm-prone coastal areas.
2. Laminated Glass
Laminated glass has two or more layers bonded together with a plastic layer in between. It offers excellent protection from storms, debris, and break-ins. Laminated glass is especially recommended for homes close to the coast due to its strength and durability.
3. Low-E Glass Coating
Low-E (low-emissivity) coatings help reflect heat and harmful UV rays while letting in natural light. For coastal skylight installation, this helps improve energy efficiency and reduce fading on furniture and floors.
Don’t Overlook Flashing and Sealants
Even the best skylight materials won’t help much if the flashing and seals fail. Flashing is the waterproof material that connects the skylight to your roof. For coastal homes, it’s best to use:
- Stainless Steel Flashing: Won’t rust or corrode in salty air
- High-Grade Sealants: UV-resistant, waterproof sealants to keep the installation watertight
Proper flashing and sealing are key parts of a successful coastal skylight installation and help prevent leaks during heavy rain or wind.
Work With a Skilled Roofing Contractor
Skylight installation is not a DIY project—especially near the coast. It requires careful attention to materials, structure, and sealing to avoid leaks and long-term damage.
That’s why it’s smart to work with an experienced roofing contractor who understands the local environment. A professional will choose the best skylight materials for coastal homes and install them correctly for lasting performance.
Why Choose Bucci Roofing?
At Bucci Roofing, we specialize in skylight installation for coastal homes. Whether you’re upgrading an old skylight or adding a new one to your living space, we use top-quality materials built to handle tough coastal weather.
Our team knows how to properly flash and seal skylights, preventing leaks and improving energy efficiency. With years of experience in coastal roofing and skylight installs, we’ll make sure your home stays bright, dry, and protected.
Tips to Maintain Your Skylight in Coastal Conditions
Even the best installations need regular maintenance to stay in good shape. Here are a few tips to keep your skylight in top condition:
- Clean the glass and frames regularly to remove salt buildup
- Check seals and flashing after major storms
- Keep surrounding roofing materials clear of debris
- Schedule annual inspections with a local expert
A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your coastal skylight installation looking great and working properly.
Ready to Add a Skylight That Lasts?
If you’re considering a skylight for your coastal home, don’t take chances with poor materials or improper installation. Let Bucci Roofing help you choose and install the right skylight system to match your home’s needs and coastal conditions.
