Estimate skylight install or replacement — fixed, vented, solar, sun-tunnel. Pick model, light-shaft scope, and electrical. 2026 data; not a contractor bid.
| Item | Quantity | Estimated range |
|---|
Got a contractor quote? Compare it to the planning range.
What this is: a planning-range skylight calculator informed by Velux / Fakro / Sun-Tek manufacturer pricing, HomeGuide, HomeAdvisor, Homewyse, and licensed cost-estimating references.
Labor is modeled from per-unit installed rates with a crew-rate sanity check ($75-$140/crew-hr loaded billing rate), informed by BLS OEWS 47-2031 (Carpenters) and 47-2181 (Roofers).
Section 25D credit: solar-powered venting skylights and motorized solar shades may qualify for the Federal Section 25C and 25D residential energy credits applied for property placed in service on or before December 31, 2025. Projects placed in service in 2026 generally do not qualify under current IRS guidance — verify on IRS Form 5695 and the IRS Residential Clean Energy Credit page before relying on it. The rate and expiration were modified by recent legislation; verify on IRS Residential Clean Energy Credit.
Last updated: May 2026. Full methodology →
| Scope | Range | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Sun tunnel (10-14 in) | $700-$1,800 | 2-4 hours |
| Fixed skylight (small) | $1,000-$2,500 | 1 day |
| Fixed skylight (large) | $1,500-$3,500 | 1-2 days |
| Manual-venting skylight | $1,800-$5,000 | 1-2 days |
| Solar-vented skylight (gross) | $2,500-$6,500 | 1-2 days |
| Replace existing skylight | $1,500-$4,000 | 1 day |
$1,200-$6,500 installed depending on type. Fixed $1,200-$3,500. Vented $1,800-$5,000. Solar-vented $2,500-$6,500 (gross). Sun tunnel $700-$1,800. Federal Section 25C and 25D residential energy credits applied for property placed in service on or before December 31, 2025. Projects placed in service in 2026 generally do not qualify under current IRS guidance — verify on IRS Form 5695 and the IRS Residential Clean Energy Credit page before relying on it.
Solar-powered venting skylights and motorized solar shades may qualify for the federal Section 25D credit; the rate and expiration were modified by recent legislation. Verify on IRS Form 5695. Standard fixed and manual-vented are not.
Properly flashed Velux / Fakro / Sun-Tek units carry 10-yr no-leak warranties. Always use the manufacturer flashing kit — not generic step flashing.
Skylight = real ceiling cut, real view, $1,200-$6,500. Sun tunnel = 10-14 in tube, daylight only, $700-$1,800, 2-3 hr install. Tunnels are the right answer for hallways and closets.
No, for the actual roof penetration. Manufacturer warranties typically void if not pro-installed, and a leak inside the roof can cause $5k+ damage. Sun tunnel kits are pro-installed too.
