Skylights: Glass vs Polycarbonate Let’s Take a Closer Look

Glass vs. Polycarbonate Skylights: A Comprehensive Comparison

When choosing a skylight, understanding the material differences is essential to make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget. Both glass and polycarbonate skylights have their unique strengths and limitations. Let’s dive into their characteristics, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

Glass Skylights

Glass skylights are a classic and popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. They are available in two primary types: tempered glass and impact-resistant glass, often double-paned with argon gas between the panels.

Key Features:

1. Tempered Glass: Heat-treated for added strength, making it more resistant to breakage. When broken, it shatters into small, safer chunks.

2. Impact-Resistant Glass: Laminated layers provide extra durability, ideal for hurricane-prone areas like Florida.

3. Argon Gas Insulation: The space between the glass panes is often filled with argon gas, enhancing insulation by reducing heat transfer and improving energy efficiency.

4. UV Protection: Glass skylights can have coatings that block UV rays, protecting interiors from fading.

Pros:

• Energy Efficiency: With argon gas and double-paned designs, glass skylights help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing energy costs.

• Clarity: Provides crystal-clear views and allows for maximum natural light.

• Durability: Impact-resistant glass meets stringent building codes in hurricane-prone areas.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Glass skylights are sleek and high-end in appearance.

Cons:

• Cost: Glass skylights are generally more expensive, especially when opting for impact-resistant models.

• Weight: Glass is heavier, requiring stronger structural support.

• Impact Resistance: While impact-resistant glass is durable, standard tempered glass is far less resistant than polycarbonate.

• Breakability: Despite its strength, even impact-resistant glass is more prone to shattering compared to polycarbonate.

Polycarbonate Skylights

Polycarbonate skylights are a more modern alternative, known for their lightweight design and unmatched impact resistance.

Key Features:

1. Impact Resistance: As highlighted by Kennedy Skylights, polycarbonate is 30 times stronger than acrylic and 250 times stronger than glass, making it nearly unbreakable.

2. Flexibility: Polycarbonate skylights are easier to install and can accommodate various shapes and designs.

3. UV Protection: Often infused with UV-blocking layers, reducing heat and protecting interiors.

Pros:

• Unparalleled Durability: Polycarbonate is highly impact-resistant, making it ideal for areas prone to hailstorms or falling debris.

• Lightweight: Easier to install and requires less structural support.

• Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than glass skylights.

• Safety: Unlike glass, polycarbonate doesn’t shatter, enhancing safety in breakage scenarios.

Cons:

• Clarity: While transparent, polycarbonate may not offer the same optical clarity as glass, potentially appearing cloudier over time.

• Susceptibility to Scratches: Without special coatings, polycarbonate can scratch more easily.

• Lack of Argon Gas: Polycarbonate skylights don’t typically include double-paned designs with argon gas for insulation, making them less effective in thermal performance.

Comparison Table

Feature	Glass Skylight	Polycarbonate Skylight
Impact Resistance	Strong impact glass (But Breakable)	Stronger (By approximately 250x)
Insulation	Excellent with argon gas	Moderate, no argon gas filled options
Weight	Heavy	Lightweight
Cost	Higher Cost $$$	More Affordable $
Durability	Durable (But can break)	Highly Durable (A lot less likely to break)
Aesthetic Clarity	Superior clarity	Good Clarity but becomes less clear over time
UV Protection	Available with coatings	Often comes standard

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Glass Skylights If:

• Energy efficiency is a top priority, and you value the insulation provided by argon gas.

• Aesthetic appeal and crystal-clear transparency are essential for your design.

• You’re in a region with specific building code requirements, such as hurricane impact resistance, and you’re prepared to pay a premium for impact-rated glass.

Choose Polycarbonate Skylights If:

• You need extreme durability against impacts (e.g., hail, debris, or vandalism).

• Cost-effectiveness and lightweight construction are more important than perfect optical clarity.

• You’re looking for a safe, shatter-proof option for areas with high safety concerns.

Conclusion

Both glass and polycarbonate skylights have their place in modern building design. Glass excels in aesthetics, energy efficiency, and clarity, making it a premium choice for homeowners looking to combine style with functionality. Polycarbonate, on the other hand, offers unmatched durability and affordability, making it ideal for high-impact areas and budget-conscious projects.

When selecting the right skylight, consider your priorities—whether it’s insulation, impact resistance, or cost—and consult local building codes to ensure compliance. Ultimately, both materials bring natural light into your space, but each does so in its unique way.