The Irish weather doesn’t always bless us with endless sunshine. But what if you could capture every drop of daylight, even on grey Dublin afternoons? That’s exactly what a skylight does: it transforms dark, dull rooms into bright, uplifting spaces that feel bigger, warmer, and more alive.
Still, the first question every Dublin homeowner asks is: “How much does it cost to install a skylight?” The answer isn’t as simple as one number, it depends on size, style, roofing type, and labour. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: real-world price ranges, hidden costs to watch for, and how to get the best value for your money.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll know what a skylight project in Dublin should realistically cost, and whether it’s the right investment for your home.
How Much Does Skylight Installation Cost In Dublin?
Here’s the part you came for: numbers. Skylight installation costs in Dublin typically fall within these ranges:
- Standard Skylights: €600 – €1,200 (supply and fit)
- Velux Roof Windows: €900 – €1,800 depending on size and glazing options
- Electric/Remote-Controlled Skylights: €1,500 – €2,500
- Flat Roof Skylights/Domes: €800 – €1,600
- Large or Custom Skylights: €2,000 – €5,000+
These prices usually include labour and materials, but don’t always cover extras like plastering, interior finishing, or scaffolding.
Factors That Affect Skylight Installation Cost
No two roofs, or budgets, are the same. Here’s what influences price:
Type Of Skylight
- Fixed Skylights: Cheapest option; non-opening, great for light only.
- Manual Opening Skylights: Slightly pricier; adds ventilation.
- Electric Skylights: Premium models with remote or smartphone control.
Roof Type And Pitch
- Slate roofs (common in Dublin terraces) require more careful installation, which adds labour costs.
- Flat roofs need specialist dome skylights and proper sealing.
Size And Glazing
- Bigger skylights mean higher cost, not just for glass but also for structural work.
- Double or triple glazing adds insulation but costs more.
Access And Labour
- A single-storey extension skylight is easier (and cheaper) than installing one on a three-storey Victorian townhouse in Rathmines.
- Complex jobs may require scaffolding, which adds €300 – €700 to the bill.
Finishing Work
- Interior plastering, painting, or adjusting roof timbers can add €200 – €600.
Hidden Costs Homeowners Often Overlook
Many homeowners budget for the skylight itself but forget these extras:
- Planning Permission: Most skylights don’t require planning in Dublin, but larger roof alterations or conservation-area homes might. Factor in €250 – €400 for application fees if needed.
- Blinds Or Shading: Dublin summers aren’t scorching, but direct overhead light can heat a room. Custom blinds add €100 – €300 per skylight.
- Structural Reinforcement: Older homes may need extra support if rafters are cut. This can add €500 – €1,000.
How To Get The Best Value On A Skylight Installation
Saving money doesn’t mean cutting corners. Here’s how Dublin homeowners keep costs in check:
- Choose A Trusted Installer: Don’t hire “a lad with a ladder.” Poor installation leads to leaks, mould, and repeat costs. Always ask for references and insurance.
- Opt For Quality Brands: Velux is the gold standard in Ireland, known for durability and warranty support. Going cheap on materials usually costs more in repairs down the line.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Prices vary widely. Get at least three detailed quotes from Dublin-based roofers or skylight specialists.
- Bundle Projects: If you’re replacing your roof or adding an extension, combine the skylight installation, it saves on labour and scaffolding.
Pros And Cons Of Installing A Skylight
Let’s keep it balanced:
Pros:
- More natural light
- Increased home value
- Ventilation options
- Energy savings in daylight hours
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Potential heat gain/loss if poorly installed
- May require maintenance (seals, blinds, cleaning)
Choosing The Right Skylight For Your Dublin Home
Every home has unique needs. Here’s how to decide:
- For Terraced Homes: Roof windows (Velux style) are usually best.
- For Extensions: Flat roof lanterns or domes work perfectly.
- For High Ceilings: Electric or remote skylights make life easier.
- For Budget-Conscious Upgrades: Fixed skylights offer maximum light for minimal cost.
For Dublin homeowners, a skylight isn’t just about cost, it’s about value. It’s the difference between a dim living room you tolerate and a bright, airy space you love. Yes, the upfront investment ranges from €600 to €2,500 (and more for premium models), but the payoff lasts for decades in comfort, health, and resale value.
If you’re ready to bring more light into your home, the best next step is to get a detailed, transparent quote from a Dublin skylight specialist. That way, you’ll know your true costs upfront, avoid nasty surprises, and enjoy peace of mind that your skylight will last as long as your roof.
So, is a skylight worth it? In Dublin, where every extra beam of light feels like gold, it just might be one of the smartest home upgrades you can make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Costs typically range between €600 and €2,500 per skylight, depending on the size, type (fixed, manual, or electric), and roof type. Custom or large skylights can exceed €5,000. Always request a detailed quote so you know what’s included, labour, scaffolding, finishing, or just supply and fit.
The biggest influences are the type of skylight (Velux vs. flat roof dome), roof material (slate, tile, or flat roof), ease of access, glazing choice (double vs. triple), and whether interior finishing or scaffolding is required.
Most standard skylights can be installed in 1 – 2 days. More complex projects involving structural work, plastering, or multiple skylights may take 3 – 5 days.
In most cases, no. Simple roof windows or skylights don’t require permission. However, if your home is in a listed building or conservation area, or if the skylight significantly alters the roof’s profile, you may need planning approval.
Not with modern glazing. Many skylights include solar-control glass or venting features. Adding a blind gives you extra control, so you get the light without the heat.
Leaks are almost always the result of poor installation. When installed with the correct flashing kit by a professional roofer, a modern skylight is fully watertight and should not leak.
Today’s skylights are designed for efficiency. Double and triple glazing, combined with thermal breaks, help keep heat in during winter and block excess heat in summer. Some even qualify for energy-saving credits.
Quality skylights like Velux can last 20 – 30 years with proper installation and regular maintenance. Blinds, seals, and moving parts may need replacement sooner.
Technically, yes, but it’s a bad idea. Cutting into your roof without experience risks leaks, structural damage, and invalidated insurance. Professional installation protects your roof, your warranty, and your home’s safety.
Yes. Natural light is one of the most sought-after features in homes. A well-placed skylight not only improves comfort but also makes your property more appealing to buyers.
This varies. Some quotes cover only supply and fit, while others include scaffolding, flashing kits, plastering, and painting. Always ask for a breakdown so you know the true cost upfront.
Almost any roof can accommodate a skylight, but the approach differs. Pitched roofs typically use Velux windows, while flat roofs use domes or lanterns. A professional installer will recommend the right option for your property.
Yes. They give you control over brightness, heat, and privacy. Blackout blinds are popular for bedrooms, while light-filtering options work well in kitchens or living rooms.
Basic care includes cleaning the glass twice a year, checking seals for wear, and ensuring drains or weep holes are clear. Most modern skylights are low-maintenance, but a quick yearly check avoids problems.
Absolutely. In fact, skylights are one of the most popular upgrades for extensions that feel dark or closed in. Installation is often simpler on extensions compared to main house roofs.
