Sun Tunnels - Your Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Sun Tunnels?

Sun Tunnels essentially allow you to bring natural light into your home. They make the perfect daylight solution in the most challenging of interior spaces. Sun tunnels do exactly what they say on the tin, channeling fresh daylight through the use of an internal reflective tunnel which can be placed on pitched or flat roofs. There is no need to worry about having a big silver tunnel in your home interior space, as these are placed strategically to be out of sight - normally within the eaves of a normal household roof. 

Different Types of Sun Tunnels 

At YARD Direct we stock various types of Sun Tunnels from the VELUX collection. 

The VELUX Flexible Sun Tunnel 

This type of Sun Tunnel is suitable for a roof pitch between 15º and 60º. It is the ideal Sun Tunnel for those with a roof space which has many obstructions such as water pipes and tanks. 

VELUX Rigid Sun Tunnel

This Sun Tunnel is also recommended for a roof pitch between 15º and 60º although this tunnel is recommended in roofs with little obstruction. It is easy to install and comes in two sizes, 14” and 10”.

VELUX Flat Roof Sun Tunnel

The Flat Roof Sun Tunnels are designed for roof pitches of 0°-15° and come in both a flexible tunnel or a rigid tunnel. Click here to find out which rooms they are perfect for. 

Do You Need Planning Permission to Install a Sun Tunnel?

The answer is usually no, but do not rule out looking into this before spending money on a Sun Tunnel. If you live in a listed building or conservation area, it is always best to make sure. When placing the sun tunnel on the rear roof, it is mostly fine but again - make sure to double-check!

Are Sun Tunnels a Good Investment?

In terms of efficiency and saving money then yes a Sun Tunnel is a great investment. Especially for those dim interior areas which otherwise would require a lot of powerful artificial lighting, costing more money in the long-term. Sun Tunnels defuse the need of constant artificial light and provide a free (once installed) source of light, and remember nothing beats natural daylight!

Which Rooms Are They Most Beneficial In?

.If you’re reading this article, no doubt you already have a room in mind which you’d love natural daylight to reach. When it comes to Sun Tunnels, think logical. They can be a big financial commitment, therefore, you want to make sure you are making the most out of tunneling natural light. We recommend installing them in areas which have good roof space above and hold little to no natural daylight which would be useful on a daily basis, these often include Bathrooms, utility rooms, hallways and cupboards!

Why Sun Tunnels and Not Lamps?

Sun Tunnels bring your interior spaces to life in ways which artificial light simply can’t, it’s like bringing a piece of the outside, in. They allow you to experience the changing daylight, every day. From the crisp morning sunrise to the orange sunset, all experienced in the comfort of your own home. Although Sun Tunnels are more expensive, they save on energy costs in the long run!

Do you have any questions we haven’t managed to answer? Our specialists are always happy to help. Contact the YARD team here.