FAQ'S - Frequently asked questions about skylights...

What is the difference between acrylic and Plexiglas?
None. Plexiglas is a brand name for acrylic plastic. Another popular brand name is Lucite.

Why are acrylic domes so popular as skylights?
acrylic dome skylights are light, efficient, and inexpensive. They are particularly well-suited to flat roof installations since they shed water so well and gather light from many angles. Their light weight makes them easy to get up on the roof. Often the dome shape allows for increased head room. They are quite modern in appearance and may not be suitable in certain architectural environments.

Why a dome and not flat acrylic?
Forming acrylic into a dome shape dramatically increases the strength of the flat sheet of plastic and helps to eliminate expansion and contraction, which can be detrimental or fatal to a skylight over time.

What are the color choices in acrylic dome skylights?
Clear, bronze and white translucent are the three more popular choices.

Can my skylights open for ventilation?
Yes. All the skylights we make can be made to open for ventilation either manually means (hand crank or pole operation) or electrical activation.

I bought a fixed (or non-opening) skylight from you. Can it be made to open?
In a sense, yes. Our skylights are designed so that they can be removed and changed to opening units if they are properly installed. They can be removed if they are curb-mounted. However, a new skylight must be purchased to replace it.

What are curb-mounted skylights?
Curb-mounted skylights are the most common of all skylights. A curb is simply a wood frame that is built from 2x4's on edge to create a "curb" so that it is higher than the roof and sealed to become part of the roof. The skylight is then dropped over the curb and attached from the outside. ** Remember, you will need a flashing kit to flash around the curb to seal it. We have these cut to size for the size of skylight you order.

Are there any other shapes available in acrylic domes ?
Yes. We manufacture pyramid, Flatlite and "Ridgelite" shapes.