I’ve always been fascinated by how a single architectural choice can transform a home. Skylights, for instance, can flood a room with natural light, making it feel more spacious and alive.
But when I started exploring skylights for my own home, I hit a crossroads: curb mounted or deck mounted? The decision wasn’t as straightforward as I’d hoped. Each type has unique features, benefits, and drawbacks, and choosing the right one depends on your roof, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
In this article, I’ll walk you through my journey of understanding these two skylight types, comparing their pros and cons, and helping you make an informed choice for your space.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Curb Mounted Skylight | Deck Mounted Skylight |
| Installation Method | Mounted on a raised wooden or metal curb | Fastened directly to the roof deck |
| Roof Pitch Suitability | Ideal for flat or low-pitch roofs (<14°) | Best for sloped roofs (14°-85°) |
| Profile | Higher, more visible from exterior | Low-profile, blends with roofline |
| Energy Efficiency | Less efficient due to uninsulated curb | More efficient, tighter seal to roof |
| Cost | Generally cheaper, easier to install | More expensive, labor-intensive installation |
| Leak Resistance | Strong with proper flashing, less prone to leaks | Prone to leaks if gasket degrades |
| Customization | Highly customizable sizes | Limited to standard sizes |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Traditional, architectural flair | Modern, sleek, less obtrusive |
| Maintenance | Easier to replace without re-flashing | May require shingle removal for replacement |
| Best Use Case | Flat roofs, commercial buildings, replacements | New construction, modern homes, pitched roofs |
My Journey Into Skylight Choices
When I decided to add a skylight to my home, I pictured a sunlit living room, warm and inviting, with a clear view of the sky. But as I began researching, I quickly realized that skylights aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution.
The choice between curb mounted and deck mounted skylights became a puzzle I needed to solve. I wanted something that looked good, performed well, and didn’t break the bank.
To figure this out, I spent hours reading up, talking to contractors, and even visiting homes with skylights to see the difference firsthand. Let me share what I learned about these two options, breaking down their features, advantages, and challenges in a way that’s easy to grasp.
Understanding Curb Mounted Skylights
Curb mounted skylights are the old-school choice, and I mean that in the best way. They’re the most common type you’ll find, especially in older homes or commercial buildings.
The “curb” in the name refers to a raised frame—usually made of 2×6 lumber or metal—that’s built onto the roof deck. The skylight sits on this curb like a lid on a shoebox, secured with nails and sealed with flashing to keep water out.
Key Features of Curb Mounted Skylights
- Raised Design: The curb elevates the skylight above the roofline, typically by 4 to 8 inches, depending on the roof’s slope and local building codes.
- Customizable Sizes: You can tailor the curb to fit almost any skylight size, making it a go-to for unique or non-standard installations.
- Flashing Flexibility: The curb is flashed into the roofing material, which can be asphalt shingles, tiles, or metal, ensuring a watertight seal.
- Ventilation Options: Many curb mounted skylights come in fixed (non-opening) or vented (operable) models, offering flexibility for airflow needs.
Pros of Curb Mounted Skylights
One of the first things that drew me to curb mounted skylights was their versatility. They’re ideal for flat or low-pitch roofs (less than 14 degrees), where water drainage is a concern.
The raised curb helps water flow away from the skylight, reducing the risk of pooling and leaks. I also appreciated how easy they are to replace. If the skylight fails, you can swap it out without disturbing the roofing or flashing, which saves time and money.
Another big plus is cost. Curb mounted skylights are generally cheaper to install because the curb can be built on-site with basic materials. For someone like me, who’s mindful of budget, this was a major selling point.
Plus, the ability to customize the curb size means you’re not locked into standard dimensions, which is great for older homes or commercial spaces with unique roof designs.
The architectural flair of curb mounted skylights also caught my eye. The raised design adds a distinct look to the roof, almost like a mini-dormer. If you’re going for a traditional or classic aesthetic, this can enhance your home’s exterior charm.
Cons of Curb Mounted Skylights
But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. One downside I noticed is the energy efficiency—or lack thereof. Most curbs aren’t insulated beyond the 1.5-inch thickness of the lumber, which can lead to heat loss in winter or heat gain in summer.
This was a concern for me, living in a region with cold winters. I also found that the higher profile makes curb mounted skylights more noticeable from the outside, which might not suit everyone’s taste, especially if you prefer a sleek, modern look.
Another potential issue is maintenance. While replacing the skylight itself is straightforward, the curb needs regular checks to ensure the flashing and seals are intact. If not properly maintained, water can seep into the curb, especially on flat roofs where debris like leaves or snow can accumulate.
Exploring Deck Mounted Skylights
Deck mounted skylights, on the other hand, feel like the modern cousin of curb mounted ones.
They’re designed to sit flush with the roof deck, secured directly to the roofing material with a specialized flashing kit.
This gives them a low-profile, streamlined appearance that’s become popular in new construction and contemporary homes.
Key Features of Deck Mounted Skylights
- Low-Profile Design: The skylight integrates seamlessly with the roof, protruding only a few inches above the surface.
- Built-In Curb: Unlike curb mounted skylights, deck mounted ones come with an integrated curb, eliminating the need for on-site construction.
- Flashing Kits: These skylights use pre-engineered flashing kits tailored to specific roofing materials, ensuring a tight seal.
- Energy Efficiency: The close connection to the roof deck reduces air leakage, making them more energy-efficient.
Pros of Deck Mounted Skylights
I was immediately drawn to the aesthetic appeal of deck mounted skylights. Their low profile blends into the roofline, making them nearly invisible from the ground.
This is perfect if you want the benefits of a skylight—natural light, ventilation—without altering your home’s exterior look. For my modern-style home, this was a huge plus.
Energy efficiency was another win. Because deck mounted skylights sit closer to the roof deck, they form a tighter seal, reducing heat loss or gain.
This can translate to lower energy bills, which I found appealing given rising utility costs. Some models even come with advanced glazing options, like low-E glass, to further boost efficiency.
I also learned that deck mounted skylights are ideal for pitched roofs (14 to 85 degrees). The direct attachment to the roof deck, combined with a flashing kit, creates a robust seal that works well with the natural water flow of a sloped roof.
Plus, many deck mounted skylights come with features like integrated drywall grooves, which make interior finishing easier and reduce condensation in colder climates.
Cons of Deck Mounted Skylights
But deck mounted skylights aren’t perfect. One of the biggest drawbacks I discovered is their tendency to leak over time. Unlike curb mounted skylights, which rely on a raised curb and flashing, deck mounted ones depend heavily on a rubber gasket to keep water out.
Over years of exposure to rain, snow, and UV rays, this gasket can degrade, letting water seep in. This was a red flag for me, especially since my roof is near a tree that drops branches during storms.
Installation is another hurdle. Deck mounted skylights require precise cutting and flashing, which can be labor-intensive and costly. If you’re replacing an existing skylight, you might need to remove surrounding shingles, adding to the expense.
I also found that deck mounted skylights are typically limited to standard sizes, which could be a problem if you need a custom fit.
Comparing Installation and Costs
When I started comparing the installation process, I noticed significant differences. Curb mounted skylights are relatively straightforward to install. A contractor builds the curb, cuts an opening in the roof, secures the curb, and flashes it with roofing material.
The skylight then sits on top, secured with nails. This process is less invasive and often cheaper, especially for flat or low-pitch roofs. I got quotes ranging from $800 to $1,500 for a standard curb mounted skylight installation, depending on the size and roofing material.
Deck mounted skylights, however, require more precision. The installer cuts a hole in the roof, fits the skylight directly onto the deck, and uses a flashing kit to integrate it with the roofing material.
This can involve removing and replacing shingles, which drives up labor costs. Quotes I received for deck mounted skylights ranged from $1,200 to $2,500, reflecting the extra work involved.
If you’re working with a metal or tile roof, the cost can climb even higher due to specialized flashing needs.
Maintenance costs also vary. Curb mounted skylights are easier to replace since you don’t need to disturb the roofing. Deck mounted skylights, on the other hand, may require shingle removal or flashing repairs, which can add up over time.
I found that regular inspections—every couple of years—can help catch issues early for both types, but deck mounted skylights demand closer attention to the gasket and flashing.
Aesthetic and Functional Considerations
As I weighed my options, aesthetics played a big role. Curb mounted skylights have a bold, traditional look that stands out on the roof. They can add character, especially to older homes or commercial buildings, but they’re not subtle.
If you’re after a modern, minimalist vibe, the higher profile might feel bulky. Deck mounted skylights, with their sleek, low-profile design, blend seamlessly into the roofline, making them ideal for contemporary homes.
From the interior, both types deliver stunning natural light, but deck mounted skylights often have a cleaner finish due to built-in drywall grooves.
Functionally, both skylights can be fixed or vented. Fixed skylights are great for light without ventilation, while vented ones are perfect for humid spaces like bathrooms or kitchens.
I was particularly impressed by deck mounted skylights’ ability to reduce condensation, thanks to their tight integration with the roof. However, curb mounted skylights excel in flat-roof scenarios, where their elevated design ensures proper drainage.
Roof Type and Pitch: The Deciding Factor
One of the biggest lessons I learned is that your roof type and pitch often dictate your choice.
If you have a flat or low-pitch roof (0-14 degrees), curb mounted skylights are the way to go.
The raised curb prevents water pooling, which is a common issue on flat roofs.
For sloped roofs (14-85 degrees), deck mounted skylights are better suited, as their low profile works with the roof’s natural water flow.
Roofing material matters too. Asphalt shingles pair well with both types, but deck mounted skylights are easier to install with shingles due to standardized flashing kits.
Tile or metal roofs often require curb mounted skylights with custom flashing to accommodate their thickness or profile. I have asphalt shingles, so either option was viable, but I leaned toward deck mounted for its modern look.
My Experience Visiting Skylight Installations
To get a real-world feel, I visited a few homes with skylights. One friend had a curb mounted skylight in her flat-roofed sunroom. The raised design didn’t bother me from the outside, and the interior light was breathtaking.
She mentioned that her energy bills hadn’t spiked, but she wished the curb was better insulated. Another neighbor had a deck mounted skylight in their sloped-roof kitchen. The sleek exterior was barely noticeable, and the interior finish was flawless.
However, they’d had a minor leak fixed the previous year, which made me wary of long-term maintenance.
These visits solidified my understanding: curb mounted skylights are reliable and cost-effective, especially for replacements or flat roofs, while deck mounted skylights offer a modern aesthetic and energy efficiency but require meticulous installation and upkeep.
Making The Choice: My Thought Process
As I narrowed down my decision, I considered my priorities: aesthetics, budget, and durability. My sloped roof (about 20 degrees) made deck mounted skylights a natural fit, and I loved their sleek look. But the potential for leaks and higher installation costs gave me pause.
Curb mounted skylights, while less energy-efficient, offered a budget-friendly option with easier replacement down the line. Since I plan to stay in my home for years, I leaned toward long-term efficiency and aesthetics, making deck mounted skylights my top choice.
However, if I had a flat roof or a tighter budget, curb mounted would’ve been the winner.
Practical Tips For Choosing Your Skylight
Here’s what I’d recommend based on my research and experience:
- Measure Your Roof Pitch: Use a level and protractor to determine your roof’s slope. This will narrow your options.
- Check Your Roofing Material: Ensure your skylight’s flashing kit matches your roof type for a secure seal.
- Consider Climate: In cold climates, prioritize energy efficiency with deck mounted skylights. In milder climates, curb mounted ones might suffice.
- Hire a Pro: Unless you’re an experienced DIYer, get a licensed contractor to ensure proper installation and avoid leaks.
- Plan for Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections to catch issues early, especially with deck mounted skylights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Curb mounted skylights sit on a raised frame (curb) built on the roof, while deck mounted skylights are fastened directly to the roof deck, creating a low-profile look.
Use curb mounted skylights for flat or low-pitch roofs (less than 14 degrees) or when replacing existing skylights, as they’re easier to install and customize.
Curb mounted skylights are generally better at resisting leaks due to their raised design and robust flashing, provided they’re installed correctly.
Curb mount refers to a skylight installed on a raised frame (curb), typically made of wood or metal, which elevates it above the roofline for better drainage.
Wrapping Up
Choosing between curb mounted and deck mounted skylights can feel overwhelming, but it’s all about aligning your choice with your home’s needs. I found that curb mounted skylights offer affordability, customization, and reliability, especially for flat roofs or replacements.
Deck mounted skylights, with their sleek design and energy efficiency, are perfect for modern homes with sloped roofs, though they demand careful installation. Whatever you choose, think about your roof type, budget, and aesthetic goals.
You’re not just picking a skylight—you’re investing in light, comfort, and value for your home. What’s your next step? Let’s brighten your space together.