Why Skylights Need Window Treatments
While skylights create stunning visual impact, they present unique challenges:
Heat Gain
- Overhead sun exposure can dramatically increase room temperature, especially in summer. Skylight shades can reduce solar heat gain by up to 80%.
Glare
- Direct overhead light creates uncomfortable glare on screens and work surfaces.
UV Damage
- Unfiltered sunlight fades furniture, flooring, and artwork. Skylight treatments block up to 99% of harmful UV rays.
Energy Loss
- Skylights can be a source of heat loss in Ottawa winters. Cellular shades add insulation right where you need it.
Hunter Douglas Skylight Solutions
Hunter Douglas offers the most advanced skylight window treatment systems available:
Duette® Honeycomb Shades for Skylights
- The original cellular shade, now available in skylight configurations. The honeycomb construction provides superior insulation while diffusing light beautifully.
Duolite® Feature
- Two shades in one—light-filtering fabric on one side, room-darkening on the other. Adjust for the perfect balance of light and privacy.
Sonnette® Cellular Roller Shades
- Clean roller shade operation with energy-efficient cellular construction.
All Hunter Douglas skylight shades are available with PowerView® motorization —essential for hard-to-reach overhead windows.
Motorization Is Essential
For most skylight installations, motorization isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. Reaching overhead windows to manually adjust shades is impractical and potentially dangerous.
Motorization Benefits:
- Easy operation – Adjust with remote, app, or voice command
- Scheduled automation – Program shades to close during peak sun hours
- Smart home integration – Works with Alexa, Google, Apple HomeKit
- Temperature sensing – Some systems auto-adjust based on room temperature
Randall's is certified in Hunter Douglas PowerView® and Alta BLISS™ motorization systems. We handle complete installation including wiring and programming.
Solutions for Every Skylight Type
Skylights come in many configurations, and each requires a tailored approach:
Fixed Skylights
- Standard rectangular skylights are the easiest to cover. Shades mount directly in the skylight well.
Vented/Operable Skylights
- Shades must not interfere with the opening mechanism. Specialized mounting ensures full operation.
Angled Skylights
- Custom-tensioned shades stay in place on sloped installations without sagging.
Tubular Skylights
- These sun tunnels typically don't require coverings, but light-diffusing options are available.
- Triangular, circular, and custom shapes can be accommodated with specialty shade systems.
Energy Efficiency Overhead
Skylights can be significant sources of energy loss—hot air rises and escapes through poorly insulated skylights in winter, while solar heat pours in during summer.
Cellular shades address both issues:
- Winter – Honeycomb air pockets create an insulating barrier, reducing heat loss
- Summer – Block solar heat gain to reduce air conditioning costs
- Year-round – Improve comfort in rooms with skylights
Combined with energy-efficient window treatments on vertical windows, skylight shades can meaningfully reduce your utility bills.
Professional Skylight Installation
Skylight shade installation requires specialized expertise:
- Precise measurement – Skylight wells vary in depth and angle
- Proper mounting – Shades must be secured to prevent sagging or falling
- Electrical work – Motorized systems may require hardwiring
- Programming – Automation setup and smart home integration
Randall's certified installers have extensive experience with skylight applications. We assess your skylights, recommend the best solutions, and handle complete installation—ensuring your shades work perfectly for years to come.
Control Your Skylights
Visit our Glebe or Nepean showrooms to see skylight shade options and motorization systems. Our specialists will assess your skylights and recommend the best solutions for light control, energy efficiency, and convenience. Free in-home consultations available throughout Ottawa.
Visit Our Showrooms | Call: (613) 233-8441