Modular skylights shine light on the future of commercial roofing

By Jesse Sanchez.

Smarter daylighting, easier installs and stronger margins give contractors new ways to lead.

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Joan Schaefer of VELUX Commercial joined host Heidi J. Ellsworth to spotlight a game-changer in commercial roofing: modular skylight systems. Their conversation covered how modern skylight technology is transforming building performance, aesthetics and — importantly for contractors — ease of installation.

“We have a wide range of customers… but what’s exciting is that there’s so many different products and so many opportunities to bring natural light and really make an amazing difference,” said Joan. That potential is front and center, where Joan explains how VELUX Modular Skylights (VMS) move beyond outdated notions of skylights. She noted, “You’re really changing the interior and that’s going to remind the owners or occupants of that building every day.”

Joan, who oversees 11 states for VELUX Commercial, broke down what sets the product apart: factory-assembled glass modules, built-in electronics and a system designed with labor savings and energy efficiency in mind. “The energy efficiency of the modules can easily be in the .26 to .28 range,” she explained, “depending on the actual glass configuration.”

She also noted how the plug-and-play design allows contractors to bypass some of the pain points of older systems. “It’s a dry system. It doesn’t require sealants,” she said, noting how installations have taken place in freezing winters.  

For contractors, the VMS product isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s an opportunity to expand offerings, boost project margins and position themselves as forward-thinking providers. As Joan put it, “The opportunity for margins and to differentiate yourself in the marketplace and that reminder of yes, I have an amazing roof and it’s energy efficient but look how it transformed my interior environment.”

VELUX has made access to the system straightforward, with training, certified installer programs and YouTube videos available. Joan said, “You can get an idea of how it goes together, just like when you have a home project.”

With the VMS product already showing up in public schools and high-end commercial spaces, the conversation makes clear that daylighting isn’t a trend — it’s a standard. And as building owners demand more sustainable, wellness-forward environments, roofing professionals have a chance to lead the charge.

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about VELUX Modular Skylights, their installation process, certification opportunities and the full range of system benefits!