Flat roof skylights as well as those on pitched roofs can be addressed with a solar tubular skylight installation. Also known as a solar tube or tubular daylighting device (TDD), these are devices that you can use to get natural light into rooms that don't have access to windows or traditional skylights. They do this by collecting sunlight on the roof and channeling it through a highly-reflective tube into the room below. This daylighting solution is perfect for dark hallways, bathrooms, and kitchens.

If you're comfortable working on your roof and in your attic, installing one of these devices can be completed in 2 to 4 hours. All you'll need is the solar tube kit and some basic tools.

Choose the Right Location

Choosing the right location to install your skylight will go a long way in avoiding any potential installation problems and providing a better final result.

Once you've finalized the location for your skylight, it's time to cut the holes in the ceiling and the roof.

Cut Out Ceiling and Roof Holes

Once you've finalized the location for your skylight, it's time to cut the holes in the ceiling and the roof.

Install the Flashing

Now that the roof hole is cut, you will need to install the flashing.

• Remove or cut any roofing nails from underneath the shingles around the top half of the hole
• Prepare the flashing for installation by caulking the underside of the flashing
• Insert the flashing underneath the shingles and tar paper at the slits you cut earlier, pushing it up until the shingles come in contact with the raised portion of the flashing
• Secure the flashing with the screws provided in the installation kit

Install the Tube

Once the flashing is installed, you're ready to build and install the tube.

Install the Dome

Attach the dome to the flashing using the screws provided in the installation kit.

Install the Diffuser

Attach the diffuser and trim ring to the ceiling ring.

Enjoy Your solar tubular skylight!

These are the general steps for installing a solar tubular skylight. You now have a good idea of what's involved in this project.