How much does a skylight cost installed?
Short answer. The installed cost of a skylight is the unit plus several layers of work, so it varies widely: a fixed deck-mounted skylight or a small tubular unit sits at the low end, while large venting or solar-powered units that need new framing and a long drywall shaft cost far more. Installing it during a roof replacement saves a meaningful share of the roofing labor.
What goes into the price
- The unit. Tubular skylights are the least expensive. Fixed units cost less than venting ones, and electric or solar venting models with rain sensors cost the most. Laminated, low-E glass adds to the price but earns its keep in Georgia sun.
- The flashing kit. Matched to the unit and roof type; kits for tile or high-profile roofing cost more.
- Roof work. Cutting the opening, framing headers, installing underlayment and flashing, and reshingling around the unit.
- Framing. Units that fit between existing rafters are simplest. Wider units may require cutting framing, and trusses require an engineered repair plan, which adds design and labor.
- Interior finish. The light shaft through the attic: framing, insulation, drywall, finishing and paint. A long or flared shaft can rival the roof work in cost.
- Electrical. Wiring for powered venting units.
- Permit. A new roof opening usually needs one; check your city or county.
How to keep it reasonable
- Install during a reroof, when the shingles are coming off anyway.
- Choose a standard size that fits between the rafters.
- Consider a tubular unit for halls and baths where you only need light.
- Get one quote that covers both roof and interior work, so nothing falls between trades.
See replacing skylights with the roof and roofing permits in Georgia.