In recent years, skylights have grown in popularity across Malaysia for their ability to flood interiors with natural light, enhance ventilation, and lend a sense of spaciousness. Yet, several misconceptions surround them—some born from outdated technology, others from poor installation. This article examines common myth-vs-reality comparisons, with practical context for tropical climates like Malaysia’s.
1. Myth: “Skylights Always Leak”
Truth: Leaks are not inherent to skylights—they are usually the result of poor installation or inferior materials. Modern skylights, when installed correctly with proper flashing, high-quality seals, and by skilled professionals, can remain watertight for many years without issue.
Malaysian installers must remain especially vigilant due to heavy tropical rains. Prominent local skylight providers, such as Supercool Creative Culture Sdn. Bhd., emphasise the use of premium raw materials and design aimed at durability in Malaysian weather.
Moreover, anecdotal reports from homeowners globally—such as in forums—highlight how leak-free skylights depend largely on installation quality, not the concept itself.
2. Myth: “Skylights Overheat Rooms in Summer”
Truth: Early skylights could admit excessive heat, but modern versions now feature low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, low U-value glazing, and thermal collars that minimise heat transfer. These technologies allow daylight to stream in while blocking unwanted solar heat.
In home-energy terms, Malaysia’s hot and humid climate makes such innovation vital. Opting for double-glazing or Low-E coatings is especially prudent in tropical regions to avoid turning interiors into greenhouses.
3. Myth: “Skylights Fade Furniture with UV Rays”
Truth: While ultraviolet light can impact interiors, most contemporary skylights incorporate UV-blocking glazing as standard. This mitigates fading and protects furnishings and artwork from sun damage.
This is highly relevant in the Malaysian context, where intense sunlight can accelerate fading of interiors. Choosing UV-resistant glazing is a wise investment.
4. Myth: “Skylights Are Difficult to Maintain”
Truth: With proper installation, maintenance needs tend to be manageable. Many modern skylights boast features such as self-cleaning glass, remote-controlled blinds, or rain-sensor automation.
In Malaysia, where dust and humidity are daily concerns, removable blinds or motorised shading systems—such as those by Moonlight Industries—can enhance both functionality and cleanliness.
5. Myth: “Skylights Don’t Insulate Well and Cause Heat Loss/Gain”
Truth: Contrary to popular belief, modern skylights are designed to be as thermally efficient as the rest of your roof. Features like expanding thermal collars can eliminate insulating gaps, while energy-glass and Low-E coatings improve thermal regulation.
Properly specified models can help maintain indoor comfort year-round—even in Malaysia’s hot and humid conditions—by reducing reliance on air-conditioning.
6. Myth: “Skylights Are Prone to Storm Damage”
Truth: Not all skylights shatter easily. Some high-performance models—like VTECH Skylights—are built to withstand significant impact (such as a 15-lb 2×4 fired at 100 mph) and intense wind without breaching seals.
Given Malaysia’s occasional heavy rains and thunderstorms, investing in robust, certified glazing improves long-term reliability.
7. Myth: “Skylights Can Only Be Installed in Certain Areas”
Truth: Skylights are versatile and can be customised for nearly any roof configuration—whether flat, pitched, or unorthodox—with structural adapters.
This flexibility is particularly helpful in diverse Malaysian architecture, from modern condominiums to traditional kampong-style homes.
8. Extra Insight: Enhancing Usability with Smart Controls
Products such as VELUX’s electric-opening skylights integrate rain sensors, remote control via smartphone, and compatibility with smart home systems like Apple HomeKit . These innovations bring convenience, energy saving, and protection from unexpected weather—a useful feature for Malaysian households during sudden downpours.
9. Malaysian Highlights: Local Providers & Climate Considerations
- Supercool Creative Culture Sdn. Bhd. is a leading local provider specialising in polycarbonate skylights and glass roofing with a focus on quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal suited to Malaysian homes.
- Skylight Group of Companies, although not related to architectural skylights, holds ISO 9001:2015 and MS 1900:2014 certifications, showcasing high management standards in corporate services.
For skylight projects in Malaysia—especially amidst tropical warmth and heavy rainfall—it’s wise to choose providers with reputable quality control and certifications like those above.
10. Malaysian Homeowner Insights (from global forums)
Owners often note that the major factor is quality of installation. These perspectives emphasise that a well-spec’d product, combined with expert installation and maintenance, is key to enjoying the benefits without the downsides.
Conclusion
While myths around skylights—leaks, heat gain, fading, and maintenance—continue to circulate, today’s technology and workmanship largely dispel them. In Malaysia, selecting UV-protected, thermally efficient skylights, installing them professionally, and opting for trusted local products significantly reduces risks.
With the right approach, skylights can transform Malaysian homes—flooding them with daylight, aiding ventilation, and offering aesthetic advantage—without the myths holding you back.