VELUX skylights cost $150 to $2,000 for the unit alone and $1,350 to $7,300 fully installed in 2026. The wide range reflects the difference between a small fixed skylight on a simple roof and a large solar-powered venting skylight on a complex roof with a long light shaft. A fixed VELUX skylight, which does not open, is the least expensive option at $3,000 to $5,000 installed. A solar-powered VELUX Fresh Air skylight, which opens and closes with a remote and includes a rain sensor, is the most expensive at $4,250 to $7,150 installed. Replacement projects, where a skylight opening already exists, cost significantly less than new installations.

This guide breaks down what every type of VELUX skylight costs in 2026, what factors push the price higher or lower, how new installation compares to replacement, what the solar tax credit can save you, and whether the investment is worth it for your home.

How Much Do VELUX Skylights Cost by Type

VELUX skylight costs range from $500 for a Sun Tunnel installation to over $7,000 for a solar-powered Fresh Air skylight on a complex roof. The type of skylight is the single biggest factor in the total project cost because it determines both the unit price and the complexity of the installation. VELUX offers five primary skylight categories, each with a different cost profile.

VELUX Skylight Type	Unit Cost (2026)	New Installation (2026)	Replacement (2026)
Fixed Skylight (FS/FCM series)	$150 – $604	$3,000 – $5,000	$800 – $1,800
Manual Fresh Air (Venting)	$300 – $950	$3,200 – $5,900	$1,000 – $2,100
Electric Fresh Air (Venting)	$1,310 – $1,730	$4,350 – $7,250	$1,500 – $2,400
Solar-Powered Fresh Air (Venting)	$1,310 – $1,730	$4,250 – $7,150	$1,400 – $2,400
Sun Tunnel (Tubular)	$185 – $600	$500 – $1,500	$300 – $800

Sources: Bill Ragan Roofing 2026 skylight cost guide, VELUX USA project calculator, HomeGuide 2026, The Skylight Guys 2025, RoofSmart 2026. All figures include estimated materials and professional labor. Actual costs vary by roof complexity, pitch, and local labor rates.

Fixed skylights are the most affordable because they have no moving parts, no motor, and no electrical connections. The sealed glass unit sits in the roof opening and lets light in without any operating mechanism. Manual Fresh Air skylights add a hand-crank or rod operator that allows the sash to open for ventilation, which increases the unit price and adds modest installation complexity. Electric and solar-powered Fresh Air skylights include motors, remote controls, rain sensors, and smart home compatibility, all of which increase both the unit price and the installation labor.

Starting in 2026, VELUX includes solar-powered blinds with all new skylights. This addition is one reason prices have increased compared to previous years. The blinds provide light control, glare reduction, and improved thermal insulation, and they qualify for the federal solar tax credit, which can offset a portion of the total project cost. We carry the full VELUX lineup and can help you select the right type for your project’s needs and budget.

How Much Does It Cost to Have a VELUX Skylight Installed

It costs $3,000 to $7,300 to have a VELUX skylight installed as a new opening in 2026, according to Bill Ragan Roofing’s skylight cost guide. This range covers the full scope of a new installation: the skylight unit, VELUX flashing kit, roofing work to cut and frame the opening, underlayment and waterproofing, light shaft construction (if the ceiling is not vaulted), interior drywall and finishing, and cleanup. The average new skylight installation costs approximately $3,850, according to The Skylight Guys’ 2025 pricing data, with inflation adding roughly 7 to 10 percent in 2026.

Installation labor accounts for a significant portion of the total cost. Labor rates for skylight installation typically run $60 to $120 per hour, according to One and Done Prep’s 2026 cost analysis. A straightforward replacement on a simple asphalt-shingle roof takes 3 to 5 hours, while a new installation with shaft construction, framing, and interior finishing can take 6 to 12 hours. The longer the installation takes, the higher the labor charge. Builders coordinating skylight installation as part of a larger project that includes new windows and door work can often negotiate better per-unit labor rates because the crew is already on site.

What Factors Affect VELUX Skylight Cost

Seven primary factors determine where your VELUX skylight project falls within the cost range. Understanding each factor helps you estimate your total investment more accurately and identify opportunities to manage costs.

• Skylight type: fixed, manual venting, electric venting, or solar-powered venting. Fixed is cheapest; solar-powered is most expensive. The type alone can swing the installed cost by $2,000 to $4,000.
• Skylight size: VELUX offers sizes from 15 inches by 27 inches up to 44 inches by 46 inches and larger for custom applications. Larger skylights cost more for the unit, require more flashing material, and take longer to install.
• Roof pitch and material: steep roofs require more safety precautions and take longer to work on. Tile, slate, and metal roofing are more complex to cut, flash, and repair around a skylight than standard asphalt shingles.
• Light shaft length and complexity: when the ceiling is not vaulted (meaning there is attic space between the roof and the ceiling), a light shaft must be framed, insulated, drywalled, and finished to connect the skylight to the living space. Longer shafts add significant labor and material cost.
• New installation vs replacement: replacing an existing skylight costs $800 to $2,400 because the opening, framing, and shaft already exist. A new installation requires all of that work from scratch and costs $3,000 to $7,300.
• Deck-mount vs curb-mount: deck-mounted skylights sit flush with the roof deck and are standard for pitched roofs. Curb-mounted skylights sit on a raised frame and are used on flat or low-slope roofs. Curb-mount installations add the cost of building the curb frame, but they make future replacement easier because the curb stays in place.
• Accessories: VELUX flashing kits cost $108 to $298 depending on the skylight size and roof material. Solar-powered blinds, now included standard with all 2026 VELUX skylights, add to the base unit price but qualify for the solar tax credit.

How Much Does a VELUX Skylight Replacement Cost Compared to a New Installation

A VELUX skylight replacement costs $800 to $2,400 on average, while a new VELUX skylight installation costs $3,000 to $7,300, according to HomeGuide’s 2026 data and Bill Ragan Roofing’s 2026 cost guide. The replacement cost is significantly lower because the opening in the roof already exists, the framing is in place, the light shaft (if applicable) is already built, and the interior ceiling is already finished. The installer removes the old unit, preps the opening, installs the new VELUX skylight with fresh flashing, seals the perimeter, and repairs the surrounding roofing material.

A new installation requires all of those steps plus cutting the hole in the roof, reinforcing or modifying roof rafters and ceiling joists, building and insulating the light shaft, installing drywall on the shaft walls, and finishing the interior with paint and trim. Each of these additional steps adds labor hours and material costs. VELUX’s own replacement cost guide confirms that replacing a skylight will always cost less than adding a new one, since the structural work is already complete.

The most cost-effective time to replace skylights is during a roof replacement. When the roofing crew is already stripping shingles and installing new underlayment, adding a skylight replacement to the scope shares labor and reduces the per-unit cost. Homeowners replacing a roof in the next few years should plan to replace any skylights older than 15 to 20 years at the same time. VELUX skylights last 20 years or more with proper installation and maintenance, and many units function well for 30 years, so a replacement timed with a reroof can deliver another two to three decades of performance.

How Much Do VELUX Sun Tunnels Cost

VELUX Sun Tunnels cost $185 to $600 for the unit and $500 to $1,500 fully installed. Sun Tunnels are tubular skylights that channel sunlight from a small dome on the roof through a reflective tube to a ceiling-mounted diffuser. They are the most affordable VELUX skylight option because the roof penetration is small (10 to 22 inches in diameter), no light shaft construction is required, and installation typically takes less than half a day.

Sun Tunnels are ideal for hallways, closets, bathrooms, and small rooms where a full-sized skylight would be oversized or too expensive. The reflective tube bends around minor obstructions in the attic and delivers a surprising amount of natural light to spaces that standard windows and skylights cannot reach. A 2026 Redfin and Ipsos survey found that 44 percent of U.S. residents prioritize natural light over home size when choosing a home. Sun Tunnels address this preference at a fraction of the cost of a traditional skylight, which makes them an excellent budget-friendly option for brightening dark interior spaces.

Do VELUX Skylights Qualify for Tax Credits

VELUX solar-powered skylights and solar-powered blinds qualify for the federal Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit, which provides a 30 percent credit on the total cost of the product and installation. This credit applies to VELUX solar-powered Fresh Air skylights and to the solar-powered blinds that are now included standard with all 2026 VELUX skylights. The 30 percent credit covers the full installed cost, including labor, which can reduce the net investment by $1,275 to $2,145 on a solar-powered skylight installation that costs $4,250 to $7,150 before the credit.

Separately, VELUX skylights that meet ENERGY STAR Most Efficient criteria may qualify for the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax Credit of up to $600 for window tax credits and skylights. The two credits can potentially be combined on the same project when the skylight is solar-powered and also meets ENERGY STAR Most Efficient requirements. Homeowners should consult a tax professional to confirm eligibility and calculate the combined savings for their specific project. The solar credit is available through at least 2034 under current federal law.

What Is the Difference Between Deck-Mount and Curb-Mount VELUX Skylights

The difference between deck-mount and curb-mount VELUX skylights is how the unit sits on the roof. A deck-mounted skylight is installed directly onto the roof deck and sits nearly flush with the roofing surface. A curb-mounted skylight sits on a raised wooden frame (the curb) that elevates the unit 4 to 6 inches above the roof deck.

Deck-mounted skylights are the standard choice for pitched roofs with a slope of 3/12 or steeper. They offer a lower profile, cleaner appearance, and are available in the widest range of VELUX sizes and types. Curb-mounted skylights are the standard choice for flat or low-slope roofs where the elevated frame helps shed water away from the unit. Curb-mount installations cost slightly more upfront because of the added materials for building the curb, but they make future skylight replacement easier and less expensive because the curb stays in place when the skylight unit is swapped out. RoofSmart notes that curb-mounted skylights are generally more leak-resistant and easier to replace than deck-mounted options.

How Does VELUX Skylight Size Affect the Cost

VELUX skylight size directly affects the cost of both the unit and the installation. Larger skylights use more glass, more frame material, and require more flashing, which increases the unit price. Larger openings also require more roof framing work, more insulation, and more time to install, which increases labor costs.

VELUX organizes its deck-mounted fixed skylights into size series. The C series (approximately 21 inches wide) ranges from $309 to $548 for the unit. The M series (approximately 30 inches wide) ranges from $420 to $825. The S series (approximately 44 inches wide) ranges from $700 to $915. These are unit prices only, according to RoofSmart’s 2026 VELUX guide. Flashing kits add $108 to $298 on top of the unit price, and professional installation adds $550 to $1,600 depending on the size and roof complexity. For homeowners choosing energy-efficient skylight glass with Low-E coatings and argon fill, the per-unit price is slightly higher than the base figures but delivers measurable energy savings over the 20-to-30-year lifespan of the unit.

How to Save on VELUX Skylight Costs

Several strategies can reduce the total cost of a VELUX skylight project without sacrificing quality or long-term performance.

1. Choose standard sizes over custom dimensions. Standard VELUX skylights fit between standard roof rafters (16-inch or 24-inch on center) without requiring structural modifications. Custom sizes that require cutting and reframing rafters add hundreds or thousands of dollars in labor.
2. Bundle skylight work with a roof replacement. When the roofing crew is already on the roof, adding a skylight replacement or new installation to the scope shares mobilization, safety setup, and cleanup costs. This can save $500 to $1,500 or more per skylight compared to a standalone project.
3. Select a fixed skylight where ventilation is not needed. Fixed skylights cost $1,000 to $3,000 less than solar-powered venting models. In rooms where you only need natural light (not airflow), a fixed unit delivers the same daylight at a lower price.
4. Claim the 30 percent solar tax credit. Solar-powered VELUX skylights and blinds qualify for the Residential Clean Energy Tax Credit. A $5,000 installed cost becomes a net $3,500 after the credit, which closes the gap with less expensive fixed models significantly.
5. Consider a VELUX Sun Tunnel for small spaces. At $500 to $1,500 installed, a Sun Tunnel costs a fraction of a full skylight and is the most affordable way to bring daylight into hallways, closets, and bathrooms.
6. Hire a VELUX-trained installer. Proper installation activates the 10-year No Leak warranty and prevents costly leak repairs down the road. A poorly installed skylight that leaks within a few years costs far more in repairs and water damage than the difference between a budget installer and a qualified professional.

Are VELUX Skylights Worth It

VELUX skylights are worth the investment for homeowners who value natural light, ventilation, and long-term reliability backed by one of the strongest warranty programs in the industry. The cost of a VELUX skylight is higher than a budget plastic dome from a lesser-known manufacturer, but the difference in durability, energy efficiency, and warranty coverage justifies the premium over the life of the product.

VELUX skylights use tempered or laminated Low-E glass rather than plastic, which resists yellowing, hazing, and UV degradation for 20 to 30 years. The VELUX 20/10/5-year warranty provides 20 years of glass coverage, 10 years of product coverage, a 10-year No Leak installation guarantee, and 5 years on blinds and controls. Budget skylights typically carry 5-year or 10-year warranties with no leak protection. VELUX’s patented three-layer water protection system (deck seal, underlayment, and precision flashing) is the reason VELUX is the only skylight manufacturer that can offer a 10-year No Leak promise regardless of who installs the product.

The energy performance of VELUX skylights also contributes to their long-term value. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, windows and skylights account for 25 to 30 percent of residential heating and cooling energy use. VELUX’s LoE3 glass with argon fill blocks unwanted solar heat while maintaining high visible light transmittance, which means you get bright daylight without the temperature penalty. The EPA’s ENERGY STAR program reports that certified windows and skylights can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 13 percent nationwide. Combined with the 30 percent solar tax credit on solar-powered models, a VELUX skylight delivers a return that extends well beyond the initial purchase price.

Will Hail Break a VELUX Skylight

Hail can break a skylight, but VELUX skylights are built with tempered or laminated glass that resists impact significantly better than plastic domes or standard single-pane glass. Tempered glass is heat-treated to be four to five times stronger than standard glass, and when it does break, it shatters into small, rounded pieces rather than sharp shards. Laminated glass includes a plastic interlayer between two glass panes that holds the glass together even when cracked, similar to automotive windshield glass.

VELUX offers hail damage coverage on select skylight models for up to 10 years as part of the warranty program. Homeowners in hail-prone regions should verify whether their specific VELUX model includes hail coverage and should also confirm that their homeowner’s insurance policy covers skylight glass damage from hail. When hail damage does occur, homeowners can often file an insurance claim to cover the cost of glass replacement, which runs $300 to $800 for most VELUX skylights, according to VELUX’s published repair data. For homes in Central Oregon, where hailstorms are less frequent than in plains states, standard VELUX tempered glass provides strong protection under typical weather conditions.

What Is the Lifespan of a VELUX Skylight

VELUX skylights last 20 years or more with proper installation and routine maintenance. Many VELUX units remain fully functional for 30 years before homeowners consider replacement, according to VELUX’s official replacement guide. The VELUX 20-year glass warranty reflects this expected lifespan. Low-end plastic skylights from other manufacturers typically last only 10 to 15 years before the glazing yellows, the seals fail, and the flashing deteriorates. The longer lifespan of a VELUX skylight means the per-year cost of ownership is lower than a cheaper unit that needs replacing twice in the same timeframe. Homeowners considering a skylight alongside window replacement projects should factor this lifespan advantage into the total cost comparison.

What Is a Better Alternative to Skylights

The better alternative to a skylight depends on the goal. If the goal is natural light in a small interior space at the lowest cost, a VELUX Sun Tunnel ($500 to $1,500 installed) delivers daylight through a reflective tube without the structural complexity of a full skylight. If the goal is large-scale natural light without roof penetrations, glass wall systems, clerestory windows, or floor-to-ceiling windows on exterior walls achieve similar effects from the side rather than from above.

For existing homes where adding wall window options is impractical, a skylight remains the best solution for bringing overhead daylight into rooms that standard windows cannot reach.

For most homeowners, a skylight remains the best solution for bringing overhead daylight into rooms where standard windows cannot reach. Kitchens with limited wall space, bathrooms that need light without sacrificing privacy, hallways with no exterior walls, and living rooms under low rooflines all benefit from skylights in ways that wall-mounted alternatives cannot replicate. The overhead angle of a skylight captures light earlier in the morning and later in the afternoon than a vertical window, extending the hours of natural illumination throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Install a VELUX Skylight

Installing a VELUX skylight takes 6 to 12 hours for a new installation and 3 to 5 hours for a replacement, according to HomeGuide and Well Built Florida’s 2026 data. New installations take longer because the crew must cut the roof opening, frame the structure, build the light shaft, install flashing and underlayment, and finish the interior ceiling. Replacement installations skip the structural work because the opening and shaft already exist.

Do You Need a Permit to Install a Skylight

You may need a permit to install a skylight if the opening is wider than the space between roof rafters and structural changes are required. Permits can cost up to $500 depending on the jurisdiction, according to LawnStarter. Replacement skylights that fit the existing opening typically do not require a permit because no structural modifications are involved. Check with your local building department before starting the project.

Can You Install a VELUX Skylight Yourself

You can install a VELUX skylight yourself if you are experienced with roofing work and the skylight fits between existing roof rafters without requiring structural modifications. DIY installation can save $500 to $1,500 on a replacement and more on a new installation. However, improper installation is the number one cause of skylight leaks, and a leak that develops years later can cause thousands of dollars in water damage to the roof, insulation, and interior ceiling. VELUX’s 10-year No Leak warranty applies regardless of who installs the skylight, but only when the unit is installed with VELUX flashing per the manufacturer’s instructions.

What Is the Most Typical Skylight Problem

The most typical skylight problem is leaking at the flashing-to-roof junction, and it is almost always caused by improper installation rather than a defect in the skylight itself. Improperly layered flashing, misplaced nails, and skipped underlayment are the leading causes. VELUX engineered its three-layer water protection system (deck seal, adhesive underlayment, and precision flashing kit) specifically to prevent this problem. The 10-year No Leak installation warranty covers leaks from proper installations, giving homeowners confidence that the most common skylight failure point is protected.

How Often Should You Replace a VELUX Skylight

You should replace a VELUX skylight when it shows persistent signs of seal failure (fogging between panes), visible frame deterioration, chronic leaking that resealing cannot resolve, or when it has reached the 20-to-30-year mark and no longer performs efficiently. The best time to replace is during a roof or exterior renovation when shared labor reduces the per-unit cost.

The Bottom Line

VELUX skylights range from $500 for a Sun Tunnel installation to over $7,000 for a solar-powered Fresh Air skylight on a complex roof. The type, size, roof complexity, and whether the project is a new installation or replacement determine where your project falls in that range. Fixed skylights offer the most affordable path to overhead daylight. Solar-powered models deliver ventilation, rain sensing, and smart home integration at a higher price point, with the 30 percent solar tax credit offsetting a meaningful share of the investment. Every VELUX skylight is backed by the industry’s only 10-year No Leak warranty and a 20/10/5-year product warranty that protects your investment for decades.

If you are planning a skylight project and want help selecting the right VELUX model for your home, reach out to the team at Lifetime Building Supply. We carry the full VELUX lineup and help builders and homeowners across Central Oregon choose the right skylight for every room. Call us at 541-395-6808 to get started.