Natural light is as precious as gold, and skylights have become a key feature in modern design. They flood our spaces with sunlight, reduce electricity bills, and bring an outdoor vibe right into our homes and offices.
But let’s be honest, not all skylights are created equal. Enter walkable skylights—a fresh take on the classic. These aren’t just striking; they’re sturdy enough to walk on and add new levels of function and style. If you’re considering which skylight to pick for your project, we’re here to help.
What Are Traditional Skylights?
Picture this—you’re lying on your living room couch, a soft glow washing over the room as you look up through a pane of glass set into the roof. That’s the magic of traditional skylights. They’re typical windows installed in roofs or ceilings, designed to allow natural light to flood indoor spaces.
The Pros of Traditional Skylights
- Natural Lighting Enhancement: Traditional skylights are champions at letting in daylight, illuminating spaces, and making rooms feel larger and airier.
- Energy Efficiency Improvements: By maximizing daylight entry, these skylights help reduce the need for electric lighting.
- Aesthetic Appeal: There’s no denying that traditional skylights add a touch of elegance and sophistication to interiors, enhancing not just light but style.
The Cons of Traditional Skylights
- Limited to Non-load-bearing Surfaces: Unlike walkable skylights, traditional ones can’t bear weight. They’re all about the view, not the walk.
- Potential for Maintenance Challenges: Think leaks and glass damage. Traditional skylights can sometimes be maintenance heavy, requiring regular check-ups.
- Less Versatile in Terms of Functionality: With traditional skylights, what you see is what you get—beautiful views and light, but no extra usability.
What Are Walkable Skylights?
Now, let’s talk about the alternative—walkable skylights. These aren’t your average roof windows; they’re engineered to double as flooring while still delivering all the benefits of a traditional skylight.
Circle Redmont®’s 91R™ Plank Glass Panels
Circle Redmont® has taken the concept of walkable skylights to a whole new level with our 91R™ panels. Here’s why they’re game-changers:
Incorporates Load Bearing Plank Glass
These panels, built into a structural aluminum or steel framework, combine strength with aesthetic appeal. The prefabricated plank glass panels not only provide a sleek, modern look but also contribute to the structural integrity and safety of the installation.
Load-bearing, Durable, and Thermally Efficient
Walkable skylights like these are engineered to support heavy loads, such as foot traffic, without compromising their durability. They also minimize heat transfer, ensuring energy efficiency by keeping interiors cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, making them an ideal blend of form and function.
Quick Installation and Low Maintenance
Designed with efficiency in mind, these panels are straightforward to install, reducing labor time and costs. Once in place, they require minimal maintenance, allowing for a hassle-free experience while ensuring long-term durability and performance—a true win-win for both residential and commercial applications.
Common Applications
Walkable skylights are found in:
- Residential Decks and Rooftop Terraces
- Pedestrian Walkways
- Bridges, and Other Outdoor Structures
Lighting Up Your Decision
Circle Redmont® offers a range of cutting-edge options for those considering incorporating walkable skylights into their next big project. Our 91R™ Plank Glass panels provide an impressive blend of durability, style, and functionality—ideal for any forward-thinking architect or homeowner. To explore how these innovative solutions can fit into your vision, contact Circle Redmont® today for a consultation.
Whether you’re redesigning a rooftop terrace or reimagining office spaces, there’s no limit to what you can achieve with the power of natural light. Let’s make your space shine!
