Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about VELUX Sun Tunnels!
Installing skylights was one of the best renovation decisions we made for our home, and after recently adding five VELUX Sun Tunnels, I finally have the full picture of how both solutions perform. In this article I’ll explain the differences, show where we used Sun Tunnels in our house, describe the installation and cost, and cover the practical benefits so you can decide which option fits your needs.
Quick note: VELUX Sun Tunnels are currently being promoted with a sweepstakes in July — details at the end of this post.
Skylights vs Sun Tunnels
Both skylights and Sun Tunnels bring natural daylight into a home, but they do so in different ways and serve different needs. I love both and see a clear role for each in our house.
Skylights deliver the largest amount of direct natural light and can provide ventilation when you choose operable models. They’re ideal for living rooms, bedrooms and kitchens where abundant daylight and sky views are desirable.
Sun Tunnels, on the other hand, are faster and more affordable to install. They work in tighter or more complicated roof and attic situations where a skylight isn’t practical — for example where rooflines, rafters, or HVAC or plumbing runs prevent cutting in a larger skylight. Though they let in less light than a skylight, Sun Tunnels still bring a transformative, even daylight into interiors.
When deciding between the two, consider:
- The amount of natural light you want
- Your roof and attic constraints
- Your budget
In general, choose skylights for primary living spaces and rooms where you want both light and views. Choose Sun Tunnels for bathrooms, hallways, laundry rooms and other tight or awkward spaces where a skylight won’t fit.
Where We Installed Sun Tunnels
1) Guest Bathroom
Our small guest bathroom — also used by our son — was very dark when we moved in. A small frosted window and extended eaves meant almost no daylight reached the room. We installed two Sun Tunnels and the difference is dramatic: the space now feels light, airy, and much more usable. We rarely need to switch on the lights during the day, and the fresh daylight makes even simple updates like paint and accessories look better.
2) Hallway
Before, the hallway had a single tiny overhead fixture that didn’t do much to brighten the space. Adding a Sun Tunnel opened the area, making it feel larger and more welcoming. The light spills into the adjacent spaces, including the guest bathroom and dining room, and highlights artwork and architectural details in a way that felt impossible before.
3) Entryway
Our entryway receives very little direct sun, particularly in summer, because of the roof overhang. The roof above that zone is high and oddly configured, so traditional skylights weren’t an option. Two Sun Tunnels brought in welcome daylight at the front door and even contributed extra light into the kitchen. The moment you step inside now feels brighter and more inviting.
Of the three, the bathroom and hallway experienced the most dramatic improvement, but the entryway also gained a noticeable lift in ambiance.
Where should you use Sun Tunnels?
Sun Tunnels are ideal for bathrooms, laundry rooms, hallways, entryways, closets and other tight or tricky spaces where a skylight isn’t feasible. They provide natural light without requiring a direct cutout sized for a skylight and can thread around obstructions in the attic using rigid or flexible reflective tubing.
How much light does a Sun Tunnel provide?
It’s hard to capture in words alone — before-and-after images really show the change — but Sun Tunnels deliver soft, even daylight that dramatically improves visibility and ambiance. One useful accessory is the solar night light: a photovoltaic cell inside the tunnel charges during the day and powers a gentle nighttime glow, making late-night navigation easy without overhead lights. If you choose a solar night light, you may also qualify for a federal solar tax credit under qualifying conditions (see the tax credit section below).
How are Sun Tunnels installed?
VELUX Sun Tunnels consist of three main parts: a lens on the roof, a diffuser at the ceiling, and a highly reflective aluminum tunnel that connects them and directs daylight down into the room. Typical installation is quick — often around two hours — depending on roof type and attic complexity.
What do Sun Tunnels look like on the roof?
You can choose different exterior styles. We selected VELUX Wildfire Sun Tunnels because we live in an area with wildfire risk; these models use fire-resistant materials and flat tempered glass designed to meet fire-safety testing standards. Other Sun Tunnels are available with either domed or flat glass exteriors depending on aesthetic preference and code requirements.
How much do Sun Tunnels cost?
Costs vary by region and by the complexity of the installation. As a general range, installed prices typically fall between about $650 and $2,150 per Sun Tunnel. Factors that influence cost include roof type, whether the tunnel must run a long distance or around obstructions, and whether special products (like wildfire-rated units or solar night lights) are chosen.
Is there a tax credit available?
If you install Sun Tunnels with solar night lights that include a qualifying photovoltaic component and meet the current tax credit rules for the relevant year, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit. At the time this article was written, qualifying installations completed within the specified time window were eligible for a 26% federal tax credit. Tax laws change over time, so check current guidance or consult a tax professional for up-to-date eligibility and requirements.
Enter to Win VELUX Sun Tunnels
For those interested in trying Sun Tunnels, VELUX has run promotions and sweepstakes offering Sun Tunnel skylights with solar night lights and installation as prizes. If a sweepstakes is active, it’s a simple way to potentially brighten a room or two at no cost. Check with the official VELUX promotion details for exact entry dates and rules.
That covers our experience and practical advice about VELUX Sun Tunnels. If you have questions comparing skylights and Sun Tunnels for a specific space, tell me about the room and roof situation and I’ll help you evaluate the best option.
This post was produced in collaboration with VELUX. All opinions expressed are my own.
