The when, how and why of skylight replacement

By Jesse Sanchez. 

What’s above your head could be costing you. Here’s why commercial skylight upgrades deserve a closer look. 

Commercial skylights don’t last forever. While today’s models are built to withstand snow loads, wind pressure and even airborne debris, older systems may no longer meet modern safety or performance standards. For many buildings, the question isn’t if skylights need attention; it’s when and how. According to VELUX Commercial North America, one of the industry’s leading daylighting solution providers, property managers and facility owners should consider replacing,  or retrofitting skylights not just to patch up a problem, but to transform building performance from the top down. 

Lighting the way forward 

Poor lighting in a commercial space can have broad ripple effects, from employee productivity to tenant satisfaction. Skylights built with outdated materials can yellow, fog or lose their clarity as they begin to degrade over time. This deterioration can lead to numerous issues for building owners and tenants alike including increased energy consumption, water leaks, safety concerns, and disruptions to the building environment. 

Increased natural lighting is one of the biggest potential benefits of skylight replacement. Their systems are built with modern glazing that maximizes daylight and minimizes maintenance, offering clean, bright light for years to come. This type of lighting is much easier on the eyes for building occupants, offering soft natural light instead of bright electric light. Combined with the longevity of newer glazing materials, skylights can become a long-term asset instead of a liability. 

A stronger shield 

The push for safety is another compelling reason to upgrade. New skylight technologies have come a long way, and VELUX Commercial stresses the importance of structural integrity: “Commercial skylight replacements provide the opportunity to remove potential safety issues on the roof and reinforce structural components.” 

Where glazing options help to meet regional and code-driven needs, like hail or hurricane ratings, enhancing your long-term safety measures provides peace of mind. OSHA-compliant fall protection options like security bars, interior and exterior safety screens, and smoke vents reinforce your long-term safety measures. 

Energy on the table 

Energy efficiency is a growing concern across industries. Skylights, as part of the building envelope, play a critical role in heating, cooling and lighting loads. 

Modern replacements can cut lighting demand and curb solar heat gain, particularly in systems designed with autonomous daylight control systems. As VELUX Commercial puts it, “Well-designed daylighting can play a significant role in a building’s energy efficiency.” 

Letting buildings breathe 

Beyond illumination and insulation, newer skylight systems can also improve ventilation. Modular skylight systems from VELUX Commercial include venting options that promote fresh air flow and help lighten the load on HVAC systems. 

“Strategically replacing fixed skylights with venting modules” can significantly increase indoor air quality and climate control, something more important than ever in post-pandemic building management. 

A strategic investment 

While not every old skylight needs immediate replacement, building owners should be proactive, not reactive. Modern commercial skylights offer more than just a view — they’re integral to how a structure performs, protects and provides for its occupants. 

Learn more about insights on safety codes, real-world case studies and what to look for in a retrofit!