Skylight Installation Prices
$600–$3,000
Typical range · Updated March 2026
Real pricing for fixed, opening and tubular skylights, replacements, repairs and blind fitting across Australia, UK, USA, Canada and New Zealand.
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Select a country to see detailed skylight installation pricing by city
Australia
skylight installation / roof windows
From $300/job
12 service types · 5 cities with data
8 regions covered
View Australia prices →
United Kingdom
roof windows / skylights / Velux windows
From £200/job
8 service types · 4 cities with data
4 regions covered
View United Kingdom prices →
United States
skylights / roof windows / sun tunnels
From $250/job
8 service types · 5 cities with data
12 regions covered
View United States prices →
Canada
skylights / roof windows
From C$380/job
8 service types · 3 cities with data
6 regions covered
View Canada prices →
New Zealand
skylight installation / roof windows
From NZ$450/job
8 service types · 3 cities with data
5 regions covered
View New Zealand prices →
Skylight Installation Prices by Service — Australia
National average prices including GST — standard residential roof installations
| Service | From | Average | Up to |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🪟Fixed Skylight Installation Supply and install a fixed (non-opening) skylight including flashing, shaft lining and weatherproofing — suits standard pitched roofs | $800/job | $1350/job | $2000/job |
| 🌬️Opening / Venting Skylight Supply and install a manually or electronically operated opening skylight for ventilation — includes flashing and rain sensor option | $1200/job | $2000/job | $3000/job |
| ☀️Tubular Skylight (Sun Tunnel) Supply and install a tubular skylight (Solatube or similar) that channels daylight through a flexible tube — ideal for rooms without direct roof access | $600/job | $1000/job | $1500/job |
| ⚡Electric Skylight (Motorised) Supply and install a motorised electric opening skylight with remote control or smart home integration — includes wiring and rain sensor | $2000/job | $3100/job | $4500/job |
| 🏠Roof Window (Velux-Style) Supply and install a high-quality roof window (Velux or equivalent) in a pitched roof — includes flashing kit and installation labour | $1500/job | $2400/job | $3500/job |
| 🔄Skylight Replacement Remove existing skylight and install a new replacement unit — includes resealing, flashing and weatherproofing to current standards | $1000/job | $1650/job | $2500/job |
| 🔧Skylight Flashing Replacement Remove and replace deteriorated or leaking flashing around existing skylight — most common cause of skylight leaks | $400/job | $620/job | $900/job |
| 📐Shaft Lining / Light Shaft Line or construct the internal light shaft between the skylight and the ceiling opening — includes plasterboard, taping and painting | $800/job | $1350/job | $2000/job |
| 🪞Skylight Blind Installation Supply and fit a purpose-made internal blind for an existing skylight — manual, electric or solar-powered options available | $300/job | $520/job | $800/job |
| ✨Custom Skylight Design and install a custom-sized or architectural skylight — includes bespoke framing, glazing and specialist waterproofing | $3000/job | $5200/job | $8000/job |
| 💧Skylight Leak Repair Diagnose and repair a leaking skylight — typically involves resealing, flashing repair or replacement of failed weatherproofing | $300/job | $500/job | $800/job |
| 🔮Glass Skylight Upgrade Upgrade existing acrylic dome skylight to a flat glass unit with improved UV performance, insulation value and aesthetics | $1200/job | $2000/job | $3000/job |
Prices include GST. Based on verified installer data. Last updated March 2026.
Common Skylight Jobs and What They Usually Cost
Real job costs for typical Australian homes — complete project pricing, not just service rates.
| Job | Typical scope | Typical price | On-site time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed skylight installation | Supply and install a single fixed flat-glass skylight including flashing, shaft lining and ceiling opening on a standard pitched tiled roof | $800–$2,000 | 4–8 hours |
| Electric opening skylight | Supply and install a motorised electric opening skylight with rain sensor, remote control, flashing kit and internal shaft lining | $2,000–$4,500 | 1–2 days |
| Tubular skylight installation | Supply and install a tubular daylight system (Solatube or equivalent) with roof dome, flexible tube and ceiling diffuser | $600–$1,500 | 3–5 hours |
| Skylight replacement | Remove ageing or leaking skylight, install new replacement unit with fresh flashing and reseal — existing shaft retained | $1,000–$2,500 | 4–8 hours |
| Skylight leak repair | Diagnose and repair leaking skylight — typically flashing resealing, re-bedding or replacement of failed weatherproofing | $300–$800 | 2–4 hours |
| Custom architectural skylight | Design and install a bespoke skylight to architect specification — includes custom framing, specialist glazing and waterproofing | $3,000–$8,000 | 2–3 days |
What Affects Skylight Installation Prices?
Five key variables that explain why two similar skylight installations can price very differently.
Roof type and pitch
The type and pitch of your roof is one of the biggest variables in skylight installation cost. Steeply pitched roofs with standard tiles or shingles are the most straightforward to work on. Flat roofs, metal or Colorbond roofs, slate roofs and low-pitch roofs all require specialist flashing and can add $200–$600 to installation cost. Heritage tiles and slate also add risk of breakage that requires careful management.
Skylight size and glazing type
Larger skylights cost more in both the unit price and the structural work required to form the roof opening. A 600mm × 600mm fixed skylight is at the affordable end; a 1,200mm × 900mm glass unit costs significantly more. Glazing choice also matters — laminated safety glass, double-glazing, low-E coatings and tinted options all affect the unit cost. Acrylic dome units are the most affordable; flat glass units with thermal break frames command a premium.
Fixed vs opening skylight
Fixed skylights are the most affordable option — they provide light but no ventilation. Opening and venting skylights add a mechanical operating system (manual or electric) that increases cost by $400–$1,500 depending on the type. Electric opening skylights with rain sensors, remote controls or smart home integration sit at the premium end. The additional cost of an opening skylight is often worthwhile for kitchens, bathrooms and stairwells where ventilation improves comfort.
Access difficulty and ceiling height
Accessible roofs with safe working platforms make installation faster and cheaper. Double-storey homes, steep roofs requiring scaffolding, complex roof geometry and high ceilings all add labour cost and time. Shaft lining — the internal tunnel between the roof opening and the ceiling — adds significant cost in homes with thick insulation, high ceilings or complex ceiling geometry. Deep shafts require more framing, lining and finishing work.
Flashing complexity and roof covering
Flashing is the waterproofing connection between the skylight frame and the roof covering — it is the most technically critical element of any skylight installation. Tiled roofs require carefully cut flashing lead or custom aluminium. Metal roofs need purpose-made metal-to-metal seals. Flat or low-pitch roofs require upstand kerb construction. Poor flashing is the primary cause of skylight leaks. Using manufacturer-supplied flashing kits and experienced installers significantly reduces long-term risk.
Skylight Types Compared
Understanding the four main skylight types helps when reviewing quotes and selecting the right option.
| Type | Application | Lifespan | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic dome skylight | Budget residential skylights, older homes | 15–20 years | Budget-conscious installations where appearance is less critical |
| Flat glass skylight | Modern residential and commercial skylights | 30–40+ years | New builds, renovations and premium upgrades seeking best long-term performance |
| Tubular / sun tunnel | Rooms without direct roof access, narrow ceiling spaces | 20–25 years | Rooms where a conventional skylight is not practical due to ceiling depth or building structure |
| Electric opening skylight | Kitchens, bathrooms, stairwells, living areas requiring ventilation | 20–30 years (motor 10–15 years) | Spaces where natural ventilation is a priority and budget allows for the premium |
What Is Included in a Skylight Installation Quote?
Typically included
- ✓Skylight unit (fixed, opening or tubular) with manufacturer flashing kit
- ✓Roof opening formation including structural trimmer framing where required
- ✓Flashing installation and weatherproofing to roof covering type
- ✓Internal shaft lining from roof opening to ceiling including framing and plasterboard
- ✓Ceiling opening and diffuser/trim ring fitting with painting or plastering to match
Commonly quoted as extras
- +Scaffolding or elevated work platform for high or steep roofs — typically $300–$800 extra
- +Internal blind or shade for heat and light control — $300–$800 extra per unit
- +Electrical wiring for electric opening skylights — $200–$500 depending on existing wiring access
- +Ceiling repair and repainting beyond the immediate skylight area after shaft installation
How a Skylight Installation Progresses
Understanding the four stages helps set clear expectations before work begins.
1. Site assessment and product selection
The installer assesses the roof type, pitch, covering material and ceiling depth to determine the best skylight position and product specification. They check for obstructions (roof trusses, noggins, plumbing vents, electrical conduit) above the proposed location and confirm which flashing kit and shaft configuration is required.
2. Roof opening and flashing
The roof covering is temporarily removed around the opening area, a structural opening is formed between roof members, and the skylight frame is installed. Manufacturer-specific flashing is carefully fitted around the frame perimeter and integrated with the roof covering to create a watertight seal. This stage determines the long-term weather performance of the installation.
3. Shaft construction and insulation
The internal light shaft is framed, insulated and lined with plasterboard between the roof opening and the ceiling. The shaft geometry (vertical, angled or splayed) affects how much light reaches the room. Insulation within the shaft prevents condensation and maintains thermal performance. Taping, stopping and priming are completed at this stage.
4. Ceiling opening and finishing
The ceiling opening is cut to size and the trim ring or diffuser is fitted. Plasterboard edges are finished, cornice or square-set trimming is applied and the area is primed ready for painting. For electric skylights, the wiring is completed and the control system commissioned. Final painting is typically by the homeowner or a separate painter.
How to Get Better Value on Skylight Installation
Install during new build or open-wall renovation
The best time to install a skylight is during new construction or a major renovation when ceiling and roof access is easy. Installing during roof work already underway (reroofing, insulation upgrade) saves on access costs and reduces the marginal installation price. A skylight added during a roofing job can cost 30–50% less than a standalone installation.
Choose the right skylight type for your needs
A tubular skylight costs $600–$1,500 and suits most rooms that need more light. A fixed flat-glass skylight costs $800–$2,000 and suits rooms needing both light and aesthetics. An opening skylight ($1,200–$3,000) is only worthwhile where ventilation is a genuine priority. Avoid over-specifying — a fixed skylight delivers 80% of the benefit of an opening unit at significantly lower cost.
Get multiple quotes and compare flashing approaches
Skylight installation pricing varies significantly between installers. When comparing quotes, look at the flashing method specified — cheap installations often skip manufacturer-specific flashing kits in favour of generic sealant. A quality flashing job costs more upfront but avoids the $300–$800 cost of leak repairs later. Ask each installer specifically about their flashing approach.
Consider a tubular skylight before a conventional unit
For hallways, bathrooms and kitchens below an upstairs room, a tubular skylight (Solatube or equivalent) can deliver excellent daylighting at $600–$1,500 — far less than a conventional skylight that requires a full shaft lining and structural opening. Tubular systems are also faster to install (typically half a day) and require no structural work.
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Skylight installation in Australia costs $600–$1,500 for a tubular skylight, $800–$2,000 for a fixed skylight, $1,200–$3,000 for an opening skylight, and $2,000–$4,500 for an electric motorised skylight. Custom or architectural skylights range from $3,000–$8,000. Flashing replacement costs $400–$900 and leak repairs $300–$800. Prices vary by roof type, skylight size and access difficulty.
A fixed skylight is sealed — it provides natural light but no ventilation. An opening or venting skylight has a mechanism (manual or electric) that allows it to be opened for ventilation. Opening skylights cost $400–$1,500 more than fixed equivalents and are worth the premium in kitchens, bathrooms and stairwells where ventilation improves comfort and air quality.
A tubular skylight (also called a sun tunnel or Solatube) uses a small roof dome and a highly reflective flexible tube to channel daylight to a ceiling diffuser. It is ideal for rooms that do not have direct roof access — such as hallways, internal bathrooms and rooms below other floors. At $600–$1,500 installed, it is the most affordable way to add daylight to a room and requires no structural work or light shaft construction.
In most Australian states, a standard residential skylight installation on an existing dwelling does not require a development application (DA) — it falls within permitted development provisions. However, heritage-listed properties, conservation areas, strata title properties and some council areas have specific requirements. Always check with your local council before proceeding. In the UK, listed buildings require Listed Building Consent. In the US and Canada, building permits are typically required.
The most common cause of skylight leaks is failed or deteriorated flashing — the waterproofing connection between the skylight frame and the roof covering. Over time, lead or aluminium flashing can crack, lift or separate, allowing water to penetrate. Flashing replacement costs $400–$900 and typically resolves most leaks. A full skylight leak diagnostic and repair costs $300–$800. Address leaks promptly to avoid ceiling and plaster damage that multiplies the repair cost.
Skylight Installers and Comparisons
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Skylight Installation Providers Australia
Compare price ranges, service areas, specialisations and product brands for skylight installers across Australia.
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Side-by-side comparisons of skylight options — fixed vs opening, tubular vs traditional, and brand comparisons to help you choose.
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How We Get These Prices
Prices aggregated from 100+ verified quotes and published rate cards from skylight installers across Australia, the UK, USA, Canada, and New Zealand. Based on 160 data points across 35 providers in 20 cities, our figures reflect what homeowners actually pay for new skylight installations, replacements, tubular systems, electric skylights and repairs.
Methodology: We collect quoted rates from skylight installers, cross-reference with manufacturer recommended retail pricing and industry guidelines, and verify against completed project invoices. We account for roof type, skylight size, access complexity and shaft configuration. Data last verified March 2026. We refresh quarterly to capture material cost changes and installer rate updates.
All prices are indicative guides. Your actual cost depends on roof type, skylight specification, shaft depth, access difficulty and your location. We recommend getting at least three quotes from skylight installers before committing.