Ask Skylight Sherpa℠
Welcome to Skylight Sherpa℠ – your expert guide to all things skylighting. Backed by years of industry experience, we’ve answered the most common questions to help you navigate skylight solutions with clarity and confidence. Whether you're planning a new installation or upgrading an existing system, you're in the right place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Logistics Lighting?
Logistics Lighting is a distributor of skylights, smoke vents and related products. We are experts in the products we offer. Our mission is to deliver timely skylight expertise with a personal touch that provides an unrivaled experience in achieving project goals.
Skylights
Does OSHA test or approve skylights?
OSHA does not test or approve skylights, or any other products. OSHA sets compliance standards.
How many skylights do I need for good daylighting design?
The number of skylights required is dependent on the use of the space, and the light levels desired. The design area is known as Effective Skylight to Floor Ratio (ESFR). A typical design for a warehouse is 2-3% ESFR, and for retail space 3-5% ESFR is more common. Logistics Lighting offers full design support.
Will skylights help reduce energy consumption in a building?
Skylights are an integral part of any sustainable and resilient design. Daylighting is a key component of good design and is required for WELL Building standards and USGBC LEED standards. Proper daylighting design will contribute to the health and wellness of the building occupants.
What materials are used for commercial skylights?
Acrylic or polycarbonate for glazing; aluminum or steel for frames. Selection varies depending on the manufacturer.
Can skylights be retrofitted for energy efficiency?
Yes, install double-glazed or low-E coated skylights to reduce heat loss and UV transmission, improving insulation.
How do skylights impact building codes?
Must comply with local codes (e.g., IBC) for lighting, ventilation, and fire safety. Check egress and energy efficiency requirements.
What is the lifespan of commercial skylights?
15-25 years with proper maintenance, depending on material quality and weather exposure.
Are skylights customizable for commercial buildings?
Yes, available in various shapes (dome, pyramid, flat), sizes, and tints to match architectural needs.
What are security grills for skylights?
Metal grills or bars installed above or below a skylight to deter break-ins and help prevent falls through the skylight. Federal OSHA does not set a fixed pound rating. A grill relied on as a skylight cover must support at least twice the maximum intended load and be secured so it cannot be accidentally moved (29 CFR 1910.29(e)). The 400-pound figure is a California rule: Cal/OSHA requires skylight covers and screens to support the greater of 400 pounds or twice the load that may be placed on any one square foot (Title 8, Section 3212(b) and (e)).
How do security grills affect skylight functionality?
Properly designed grills (4x4-inch max openings) maintain light and ventilation while adding protection without obstructing vent operation.
Are security grills removable for maintenance?
Yes, many are designed with hinged or bolted systems for easy access, but must remain secure during normal use.
Can security grills be retrofitted on existing skylights?
Yes, with professional installation to ensure compatibility and compliance with fall protection and fire safety standards.
How to measure for safety screens?
Safety screens are available for both interior and exterior installation. The interior type of safety screen is installed under the skylight, and attached to the roof curb. The exterior type of safety screen is installed to cover the skylight dome and is attached to the skylight frame or the roof curb.
Difference between octagonal pyramid skylight, round skylight, bubble skylight, dome skylight, and circular skylight?
The primary difference between these skylight types lies in their shape and the architectural design considerations they address:
Octagonal Pyramid Skylight: Features an octagonal base with sloped sides that converge at the peak, often used to provide aesthetic design and distribute light evenly.
Round Skylight: Typically circular in shape, offering a more symmetrical look, frequently used in spaces that need even natural light without a defined directional light source.
Bubble Skylight: A small, dome-shaped skylight that protrudes above the roof, often used for compact spaces or to provide extra ventilation.
Dome Skylight: A hemispherical design, usually installed on flat roofs to allow more sunlight into a space and increase airflow.
Circular Skylight: Similar to round skylights but can be more integrated into specific architectural designs; often installed for purely aesthetic purposes or to provide uniform light distribution.
U-Value and Skylights
Skylights are tested to provide a U-Value, which is used to determine the heat gain or loss through the skylight.
What is the best way to install the skylight?
Skylights are installed on a roof curb. The curb is attached to the roof and flashing material is used to make the installation watertight. The skylight frame has holes pre-punched for the screws to be installed into the curb. It is important to make sure the screws are not over tightened which could bend the frame.
What are OSHA fall protection requirements for skylights?
Under 29 CFR 1910.28(b)(3)(i), workers must be protected from falling through any skylight that is 4 feet or more above a lower level by a cover, a guardrail system, a travel restraint system, or a personal fall arrest system. A cover, including a skylight screen used as a cover, must support at least twice the maximum intended load and be secured so it cannot be accidentally moved (29 CFR 1910.29(e)). California sets a higher minimum: Cal/OSHA requires the greater of 400 pounds or twice the load (Title 8, Section 3212(b) and (e)).
How to troubleshoot leaks in roof relating to skylights?
To troubleshoot leaks around skylights, consider following these steps:
Inspect the skylight for visible cracks or damages to the glazing or frame.
Check the roofing or flashing issues around the edges of the skylight for deterioration.
If there are multiple skylights on the roof, consider swapping a skylight that is not leaking with the one that might have a leak issue.
Smoke Vents
Are custom size smoke vents available?
Smoke vents are only available in standard sizes. However a curb adapted can be used to make a standard size fit an existing curb.
What standard size skylights and smoke vents are available?
Each manufacturer offers a variety of standard sizes. Custom size skylights are available, which are limited based on the size and glazing type. Smoke vents are not available in custom sizes.
Can a smoke vent be opened on a regular basis for venting excessive heat from a building?
Smoke vents are not designed to be opened for regular venting. They are only designed to function in case of a fire emergency.
How is a fusible link temperature determined?
The fusible link temperature is determined by the type of fire suppression system and building type. The local Fire Marshal should be consulted to determine the proper setting.
What triggers smoke vents to open in a fire?
Automatic sensors, fusible links (melting at specific temperatures), or manual release activate vents to release heat and smoke.
Are smoke vents required in commercial buildings?
It depends on local fire codes (e.g., NFPA 204) and building use. Often required in warehouses, factories, or large atriums.
How are smoke vents tested for compliance?
Annual inspections per NFPA 204 include testing latches, pistons, and automatic triggers to ensure reliable operation.
Can smoke vents be installed on sloped roofs?
Yes, with proper flashing and framing to ensure weatherproofing and structural integrity.
How many smoke vents are required?
The quantity of smoke vents is determined by an architect, fire system engineer or Fire Marshal.
What is FM rated?
FM stands for the Factory Mutual rating which is a rating for products that meet the standards created by Factory Mutual. This rating is required for any buildings that are insured by FM or are required to meet their standards.
What is UL rated?
UL is Underwriters Laboratory which provide a rating for smoke vents and their components to ensure proper operation.
Do smoke vents have U-Values?
Smoke vents do not have U-Values as they are not required or tested.
Do smoke vents have hail ratings?
Not every smoke vent has a hail rating, but some manufacturers publish one. For example, the Sunoptics SVT2 and SVT2CV smoke vent data sheets list lens hail ratings from Class 1 (1-1/4 inch hail) to Class 4 (2 inch hail), depending on the lens material. Check the data sheet for the model you are considering.
Ladder/Roof Hatch
Do ladders require cages?
No. OSHA no longer accepts cages as fall protection on new fixed ladders. Under the 2017 walking-working surfaces rule (29 CFR 1910.28), any fixed ladder over 24 feet installed on or after November 19, 2018 needs a personal fall arrest system or a ladder safety system. Existing caged ladders are allowed until November 18, 2036, but any section you replace must get a ladder safety or fall arrest system.
What height ladder requires a PFAS?
OSHA requires fall protection on a fixed ladder that extends more than 24 feet above a lower level (29 CFR 1910.28(b)(9)). Ladders installed on or after November 19, 2018 need a personal fall arrest system (PFAS) or a ladder safety system, such as a rail or cable with a sleeve and body harness, to safely climb the ladder. Older ladders may keep a cage or well until November 18, 2036.
What are OSHA standards for fixed roof access ladders?
Federal OSHA rules for fixed ladders are in 29 CFR 1910.23. Rungs must be 10 to 14 inches apart, measured center to center, and at least 16 inches wide. There must be at least 7 inches from the rung centerline to the nearest permanent object behind the ladder. On through and side-step ladders, the side rails must extend at least 42 inches above the roof or landing the ladder serves. If the ladder ends at a hatch, the hatch cover must open with enough clearance for easy access, and at least 70 degrees if it is counterbalanced. A fixed ladder that extends more than 24 feet above a lower level also needs fall protection under 29 CFR 1910.28(b)(9); ladders installed on or after November 19, 2018 need a ladder safety system or personal fall arrest system.
When are ladder cages required?
Never, under current OSHA rules; cages are being phased out. Fixed ladders over 24 feet installed on or after November 19, 2018 need a personal fall arrest or ladder safety system, and by November 18, 2036 every fixed ladder over 24 feet must have one (29 CFR 1910.28).
Can roof access ladders be installed on existing buildings?
Yes, with structural assessment to ensure roof and wall support. Must meet OSHA and local code standards.
What is the maximum height for a single ladder section?
OSHA does not set one maximum height for a fixed ladder section. Under 29 CFR 1910.28(b)(9), a ladder that uses a ladder safety system or personal fall arrest system must have that system cover the full climb, with rest platforms at intervals of no more than 150 feet. Ladder sections with a cage or well must be offset from adjacent sections, with landing platforms at intervals of no more than 50 feet. A cage or well counts as fall protection only on ladders installed before November 19, 2018, and only until November 18, 2036.
How are ladder safety systems maintained?
Inspect annually for rust, loose bolts, or damaged rungs. Test lifeline systems and ensure handrails are secure.
What are OSHA roof hatch size requirements?
OSHA does not set a minimum roof hatch size. For a fixed ladder that ends at a hatch, 29 CFR 1910.23(d)(9) requires the hatch cover to open with enough clearance for easy access to or from the ladder, and to open at least 70 degrees from horizontal if it is counterbalanced. When the hatch is open, workers must be protected from falling through the opening (29 CFR 1910.28(b)(3)(i)); a hatch guardrail with a self-closing gate is a common way to do this. Hatch size is chosen to suit the ladder or stair, any equipment that must pass through, and the local building code. 36 x 30 inches is a common size for ladder access.
What is the standard commercial roof hatch?
The most common specification is a 36 x 30 inch galvanized steel ladder-access hatch such as the Bilco S-20, paired with a hatch guardrail with a self-closing gate and a ladder safety post. Thermally broken aluminum versions like the Bilco S-50TB are used where the hatch is a significant thermal bridge. See our roof access and fall protection page for the full range.
Curbs
What height should a roof curb be?
The roof curb height is typically determined by the architect building engineer. Other factors include the geographic location, building type and the roofing membrane provider. Typical minimum height is 8” above the roof.
How is an existing curb measured for proper fit?
For proper fit the roof curb needs to be measured correctly. The dimensions should include any flashing or membrane.
What is the best way to install the roof curb?
The roof curb is secured to the roof decking material, and then flashing material is installed to make the connection watertight. The specific details are provided by the roofing product manufacturer, and the best roofing practices.
What is an integral curb design?
The integral curb is when the curb and skylight is designed and fabricated as one unit.
What is a louver or vented base?
A louver vent is a type of vent that uses slatted blades or slats to regulate airflow while preventing rain, snow, or debris from entering a structure. These vents are typically installed in vertical wall of the curb for natural ventilation and airflow while offering protection from external weather elements.
General/Logistics
What is the lead time?
The typical lead time can vary based on the product type and the manufacturer, from a few weeks to several months. Logistics Lighting does have a Quick Ship Program with some vendors to offer products for urgent projects.
What is the order process with Logistics Lighting?
The order process is quick and simple with Logistics Lighting. We will provide a quote and cut sheets for your review prior to ordering. After you decide to proceed, we will confirm all details and provide the production schedule and coordinate delivery with our concierge level of communication.
Does Logistics Lighting offer installation services?
Logistics Lighting has a network of reputable and reliable premium contractors that we work with around the country. Logistics Lighting does not have our own installation services.
Can we coordinate delivery with site manager?
Logistics Lighting is an expert in delivery coordination and communication. We will work with the delivery point of contact to make sure the right products show up to the right place at the right time.