Learn about the cost of skylight replacements, including various types and styles for different roof structures.
Small skylight installation: £500+
Large skylight installation: £700+
Flat roof skylight installation: £600+
Velux 1:1 roof window replacement: £980+
Labour costs: £25+ per hour or £200+ per day
Skylights are an excellent way to brighten your home and improve ventilation, but how much does it cost to replace them?
In the UK, replacing skylights typically costs between £500+ and £980+, depending on the size and type of window.
Factors like installation complexity and labour rates also influence the final price.
Data for this guide was collected in March 2025 from online data sources.
Here’s an overview of costs for various skylight types and related projects:
Task / project | Average cost (£) |
|---|---|
Small skylight installation | £500+ |
Large skylight installation | £700+ |
Flat roof skylight | £600+ |
Velux 1:1 roof window replacement | £980+ |
Pyramid skylight | £550+ |
Small roof dome | £450+ |
Large roof dome | £650+ |
Electric–powered skylight | £300+ |
Costs accurate as of March 2025
Small skylight installation
Adding a small skylight is a brilliant way to brighten up your home, letting in natural light to create a more open and airy feel.
Installation starts at £500+, making it an affordable upgrade for your living space.
Large skylight installation
A large skylight brings even more light and a sense of grandeur to your home.
With prices starting at £700+, it’s a fantastic investment for those looking to transform their interiors with a bold, luminous feature.
Flat roof skylight
A flat roof skylight is perfect for extensions or single-storey spaces, allowing natural light to flood in from above.
Costs start at £600+, offering both style and practicality for flat-roofed areas.
Pro tip: want to save money on your skylight? Pair the work with a flat roof replacement to save on costs.
Velux 1:1 roof window replacement
Replacing an existing Velux roof window ensures continued energy efficiency and a fresh, clean look.
This can be done for £980+ and is a seamless way to maintain your roof’s aesthetics and functionality.
Pyramid skylight
A pyramid skylight adds a unique architectural feature to your home, creating a stunning focal point while enhancing natural light.
Prices start at £550+, making it an elegant yet practical option.
Small roof dome
Small roof domes are compact yet effective, offering an excellent solution for smaller spaces needing natural light.
Installation starts at £450+, making it an affordable way to brighten up your home.
Large roof dome
A large roof dome can transform larger rooms with its striking design and abundant light.
Prices start at £650+, offering a stylish way to enhance your space.
Electric-powered skylight
For ultimate convenience, an electric-powered skylight lets you open and close it with ease – perfect for ventilation and temperature control.
Adding just £300+ to installation costs, it’s a smart and affordable upgrade for your home.
Skylight labour costs
Here’s what you can expect to pay on labour from skylight installers.
Hourly rate for skilled labourer: £25+
Daily rate for skylight specialists: £200+
Costs may vary depending on location, project complexity, and materials used.
Below, you’ll find the main factors that affect the cost of replacing skylights.
1. Type of skylight
Small skylights (£500+) are more affordable than large skylights (£700+)
Specialised options, such as Velux windows (£980+) or pyramid skylights (£550+), cost more
2. Roof type
Flat roof skylights are priced at £600+ on average, with variations based on installation difficulty.
You might expect to pay more for skylights installed in pitched roofs, but flat roofs can actually be more challenging for skylights.
Like with roof replacement costs, the amount you’ll pay depends largely on the structural challenges present.
3. Material and features
Electric-powered skylights cost around £300+ but may incur additional wiring expenses from a qualified electrician.
As always, you need written quotes from installers to fully understand upcoming costs.
4. Labour costs
Professional installation rates are £25+ per hour or £200+ per day, varying by region and installer expertise.
More complex installations are likely to take longer and be more expensive.
5. Accessibility
Hard-to-reach roofs or those requiring scaffolding will increase overall costs.
You can learn what you’ll need to pay for this with our guide on scaffolding costs.
6. Additional features
Adding blinds, insect screens, or insulation can add to the expense.
These might be considered optional but can drastically improve your installations performance.
Want to stop yourself from spending a fortune on a replacement skylight?
Here’s what you need to know:
Regular maintenance: prevent leaks and damage by cleaning and inspecting your skylights regularly
Combine projects: replace multiple skylights at once to save on labour costs
Choose standard sizes: custom-sized skylights are often more expensive
Shop around: obtain at least three quotes from reputable installers
Consider energy-efficient options: while initially more expensive, energy-efficient skylights reduce heating and cooling costs in the long term
Get answers to your most-asked questions by reading below.
Why should I consider installing a skylight?
Skylights aren’t just about aesthetics (although they certainly add a wow factor).
They come with a raft of benefits that could make your home brighter, more energy efficient, and even more valuable:
More natural light
Skylights allow sunlight to flood in, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
This can help lower your energy bills.
Improved ventilation
Vented skylights can be opened to let in fresh air, making them ideal for kitchens or bathrooms where moisture builds up.
Since humidity often leads to mould, this can be a major boost to your property.
Enhanced sense of space
Natural light creates the illusion of more space, making even small rooms feel bigger and more inviting.
In properties where space comes at a premium, this is highly valuable.
Energy efficiency
Modern skylights with double glazing and low-emissivity coatings help retain heat in winter and keep rooms cooler in summer.
This means lower energy costs and a more eco-friendly home.
Boosts property value
Skylights can add a contemporary feel to your home, making it more appealing to buyers if you decide to sell.
Since skylights are a wow factor, they’re also likely to increase your home’s saleability.
Which type of skylight is right for me?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to skylights. The type you choose depends on your budget, room purpose, and aesthetic preferences. Here’s a breakdown:
Fixed skylights
These don’t open, so they’re great for adding light without ventilation. Perfect for hallways, stairwells, or rooms where airflow isn’t a priority.
Vented skylights
These open either manually or electronically, allowing fresh air to circulate. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, or lofts where moisture can build up.
Tubular skylights
Smaller and round, these are designed for compact spaces like closets, corridors, or en suites. They’re affordable and quick to install.
Roof windows
Larger and often suitable for loft conversions, these offer both light and ventilation.
Many can be fitted with blackout blinds for added functionality. Like with roof tile costs, this is a matter of balancing priorities.
Pro tip: don’t just pick the cheapest option – think about your needs in terms of light, airflow, and style before deciding.
Tired of dealing with condensation on windows? Get a skylight that benefits airflow.
Do I need planning permission to install a skylight?
Good news – most skylights fall under 'permitted development' rules, so you won’t need planning permission.
However, there are exceptions:
Listed buildings or conservation areas – you’ll need approval if your home has heritage protection or is in a conservation zone
Protruding skylights – if the skylight sticks out more than 150 mm above the roofline, permission may be required
Overlooking neighbours – if the skylight overlooks another property, you may need to discuss it with your council to ensure privacy laws are met
Always check with your local council’s planning department to avoid any nasty surprises.
How long does it take to install a skylight?
Installing a skylight isn’t usually a long process, but timelines can vary depending on:
Size and complexity – larger or more complicated designs may take longer
Roof type – slate or tiled roofs may need additional adjustments compared to flat roofs
Weather conditions – rain can delay outdoor roof work, so plan for some flexibility
Typically, installations take 1 to 3 days, but larger projects might stretch to a week.
Make sure your installer gives you a clear timeframe upfront.
Are skylights energy efficient?
Modern skylights are built with energy efficiency in mind. Look for these features:
Double or triple glazing – helps insulate your home, cutting heating and cooling costs
Low-E coatings – reflect heat in summer and retain warmth in winter
Built-in blinds – ideal for controlling heat and light levels, especially in bedrooms
Check for skylights that are Energy Star rated – they’re specifically tested for energy efficiency and can save you more in the long run.
How to choose the right skylight size and placement
Getting the size and position of your skylight right can make or break its impact. Consider:
Room size – larger rooms may need bigger skylights or multiple units to achieve the desired effect
Orientation – north-facing skylights provide consistent light, while south-facing ones may require blinds to control heat
Structural constraints – rafters and beams might limit placement options, so consult a professional to map out the best location
Do skylights need much cleaning or maintenance?
Skylights are relatively low maintenance but, like with gutter cleaning, a little care goes a long way:
Glass cleaning – wash the glass regularly to keep it clear and free of dirt – use a non-abrasive cleaner to avoid damage
Seal and flashing checks – inspect seals for wear and replace them if necessary to prevent leaks
Ventilation mechanisms – if your skylight opens, check hinges and motors to ensure smooth operation
Need some cleaning tips? Read our guide on how to clean windows properly now.
Can skylights be installed on any roof?
Yes, most skylights can be fitted to different roof types – pitched, flat, or sloped. However, installation methods vary:
Flat roofs – may need special curbs to ensure water drains properly
Pitched roofs – often simpler to fit but require precise flashing to prevent leaks
Always hire a professional installer who has experience with your roof type to avoid costly errors.
How can I prevent skylight leaks?
Leaks are one of the biggest worries with skylights, but they’re avoidable with proper planning:
Professional installation – avoid DIY disasters – get the job done by a reputable installer
High-quality materials – invest in skylights with durable seals and flashing kits
Regular maintenance – check for wear and tear annually, especially after heavy storms.
Look for skylights with long warranties and check reviews carefully before choosing an installer.
The last thing you’ll want is to cover the cost of a water leak.
Replacing skylights typically costs between £500+ and £980+, depending on the size, type, and features.
Regular maintenance and professional installation ensure long-lasting and energy-efficient results.
Looking for skylight replacement services?
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Browse profiles, read reviews, and get in touch with your favourite services to start comparing quotes.
No time to search? Simply post a free enquiry with a few details, then wait to hear from local pros through your preferred contact methods.
For more cost guides, home improvement advice, and money-saving tips, check out the Yell blog today.
Disclaimer
Cost data was gathered from an analysis of wider industry data. Actual costs may vary depending on location or complexity of the task, project, or service. We encourage customers to reach out to industry professionals for specific quotes based on their unique requirements.