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Bring Natural Light Into Your Home?

Aug

It turns out that natural light is good for human beings. Employees in buildings with natural light are more productive and students in schools with more natural light have fewer absences and higher test scores. Natural light can also reduce your electricity and heating bills, helping the environment and saving you money. It’s a win, win, win! So when you’re planning your home remodeling project, be sure to think about how to bring in natural light.

Windows: Install windows in locations where they can bring in more light. South-facing windows are the best for getting sunshine around the clock, so take advantage of your southern exposures. Consider clerestory windows. These high windows allow light to penetrate deep into a room. Ensure you get the right kind of window for your climate; insulation, solar gain, and the number of panes all affect how much light and heat your window lets in.

Skylights: If windows aren’t bringing in sufficient light, think about installing a skylight. Today’s models are energy efficient and unlikely to leak like the skylights of earlier eras. If you want to bring light into a room that has an attic above it, consider a tubular skylight. This device collects light through a clear window on your roof and the tube’s mirrored interior reflects the light downward into the room. Depending on its size, one tube can light a 100 to 600 square foot room.

Reflective Surfaces: You can maximize your natural light by encouraging it to bounce around the room. Pale wall colors and white ceilings will make a room feel brighter and more spacious. White windowsills also help reflect light into a room. And don’t forget the value of some well-placed mirrors.

Light Fixtures: Of course, you need to make do with artificial light at night. Consider lights such as chandeliers with crystals that diffuse and reflect light. Put task lighting over counters or reading areas so homeowners will have light where they need it.

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About the Author:
Joaquin Erazo, Jr. is the senior vice president of marketing and public relations at Case Design/Remodeling, Inc. Find a home remodeling company near you!

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