How easy is it to install a Solatube sun tunnel

Sun pipes are really quite simple and straightforward to install, provided you know what you are doing.  Fortunately they do not require planning permission as they fall under a different category to windows, skylights and Velux style roof windows.

What does a Solatube installation involve?

On average, a Solatube installation takes approximately half a day, but does not cause too much mess or interference as we put dust sheets down and would clean and tidy up afterwards to leave things as we found them. Plus there should be no redecorating or make-good to do afterwards assuming the existing ceilings, roofs, tiles or slates are reasonably sound and in good condition.

Is a survey necessary?

And it isn’t always necessary to undertake a separate survey before fitting a Solatube sun tunnel, particularly as we endeavour to minimise our carbon footprint and charge out costs by keeping our mileage to a minimum.  Essentially, based on information we can establish via a phone conversation and pictures and measurements the estimate we provide for the Solatube installation will be quite accurate.

Should you be happy to accept the estimate in principal, we can arrange a convenient date to come round.  We can complete a quick survey first thing to ensure that everything is as we discussed and assuming all is OK we would like to continue and complete the installation of the Solatube, there and then as agreed.  However, should there be any changes required or the price should change as a result of the survey then you would be under no obligation to continue if you were not happy and there would be no charge whatsoever.

Do sun tunnels leak?

With over 10 years’ experience installing Solatube sun tunnels we are completely confident that your Solatube will not leak.  Not only do we have years of practice, we also enjoy our work and take a great deal of pride in every installation.  In addition, the Solatube system has been extremely well designed and remains under a continuous programme of improvement, utilising high grade components and materials to ensure a weatherproof and long lasting solution.  Consequently we just don’t get called back because of leaks.

What guarantees do you give with a Solatube?

All our Solatube installation work comes with a 2 year warranty, whereas the Solatube product itself comes with a manufacturers’ backed 10 year warranty.  And even if you did have a problem after one of those dates then we would want to know about it so that we can work out a rapid solution.

Can I self-install a Solatube?

A Solatube can be self-installed, provided you know how to work safely at heights up on a roof.  Also of great importance is to follow the instructions, all of which are available to download online here

Should you use your own builder or handyman?

Whilst a Solatube can be self-installed by a competent handyman or builder you may want to consider using our own, experienced fitters.  The instructions and procedures are simple in essence but often require a little more thought, care and attention to detail than a hectic tradesman/builder is prepared to give.  If you are unsure, please consider the experience of Mr Cooper who kindly provided us with the following testimonial:

“I wanted to have the best light tunnel system available and after much swatting-up on the internet, decided upon Solatube.  When I phoned the company’s head office, I was immediately reassured that I had made a good choice.

We were having major alterations made to our property and the local builder we were using said that he had fitted light tunnels before, so we went with him and his team. What a mistake!

When they had finished, it was clear (even to me) that there were basic installation errors. I contacted Solatube headquarters for help. Within minutes Nigel, the local installer from Solatube South West, phoned me and arranged a visit.

As soon as he arrived it was clear he knew his stuff. He identified a number of things that needed to be corrected and we arranged for him to return at a later date to carry out the remedial work.

I wish I had used him from the outset! We now have a very effective, correctly installed system.

I am in no doubt that whilst these systems are not complicated, they need to be installed by people who do it for a living.”  Mr Cooper, Devon.

How much will it cost to install a Solatube sun tunnel?

The most typical installation cost for a Solatube tends to be around £298 ex VAT / £360 inc VAT, plus the cost of the system itself.