Sun Tube Cost Guide – How Much To Install One?
Understand the different factors that lead to the cost of installing a sun tube in your home. Explore the advantages of sun tubes, as well as the long-term cost savings and improved energy efficiency.
This article covers:
- What is a sun tube?
- How do sun tubes work?
- How much does a sun tube cost to install?
- Factors affecting the cost of a sun tube
- Why install a sun tube?
- Do sun tubes save money in the long term?
- Can you install a sun tube yourself?
- Get a quote for a sun tube
- Sun tube FAQs
What is a sun tube?
Sun tubes are an easy and affordable way to add natural light to your home. Also known as a sun tunnel or a light tube, they offer homeowners the opportunity to introduce natural daylight to dark areas. Sun tubes extend from the roof of your home to the ceiling, channelling sunlight into rooms that don’t have traditional windows. They’re beneficial in rooms where a conventional roof window is not an option. Instead of using artificial lighting, a sun tube offers an excellent alternative.
Popular uses of sun tubes are windowless bathrooms, dimly lit hallways and office spaces. They offer a cost-effective solution for brightening up dark spaces with natural light. Installing a sun tube is a quick process, typically lasting for a few hours.
Explore our complete guide to solar tubes today.
How do sun tubes work?
Sun tubes consist of a rooftop dome, a reflective tube, and a diffuser in the interior ceiling. The rooftop dome captures sunlight and directs it down the reflective tube. The reflective surface inside the tube ensures the sunlight is channelled into the interior space. The diffuser spreads the light throughout the room.
How much does a sun tube cost to install?
The cost depends on the size, roof type, and specification of your sun tube. With Solatube, the cost of our sun tubes starts from £1,075.
| Model | System Diameter | Installed Price including VAT* |
| Solatube sun tube with Round Diffuser | 250mm (10″) | £1,075 |
| Solatube sun tube with Square Diffuser | 250mm (10″) | £1,175 |
| Solatube sun tube with Round Diffuser | 350mm (14″) | £1,275 |
| Solatube sun tube with Square Diffuser | 350mm (14″) | £1,375 |
*Installed price, based on a pitched roof system with Vusion diffuser and 1.8m (6ft) of tubing. Other configurations and options will vary in cost.
Get a quote for sun tube installation
Interested in finding out exactly what a sun tube would cost you? Schedule a survey with a member of our team for an exact quote.
Factors affecting the cost of a sun tube
Numerous factors could affect the final cost of a sun tube. These include:
Length of tube
The size of tubing you need will impact the final price of installing a sun tube. For the costs listed above, we’ve estimated that 1.8m (6ft) of tubing will be needed. If more tubing is needed to reach from the roof to the ceiling, this will increase the cost.
Diameter of tube
Smaller rooms can benefit from a 10” diameter tube. For larger rooms, we recommend the 14” diameter tube to light the room better. The larger the diameter of the tube you chose, the greater the cost.
Our sun tube with a round diffuser starts at £1,075 for a 10” diameter, and the same with a 14” diameter starts at £1,275.
Roof-type
Sun tubes can be installed on both flat and pitched roofs. However, the type of roof you have makes a difference to the final cost.
Type of diffuser
The type of diffuser you decide on affects the final cost of your sun tube installation.
The diffuser is what you will see on your ceiling, and is where the light comes from. This is a style choice depending on your preferences.
Why install a sun tube?
A sun tube introduces natural light to your home to areas that are typically dark. The installation process is both easy and cost-effective, requiring minimal renovations. Beyond enhancing aesthetics, they contribute to energy savings. This makes them a practical choice for illuminating areas where artificial light fixtures fall short.
Sun tubes are an accessible and efficient way of bringing soft, natural light to dark spaces. They enhance the ambience and functionality of your home.
Benefits of installing a sun tube
Cost savings
While there is an initial investment to install a sun tube, there are long-term cost savings. Reducing the reliance on artificial lighting during the day reduces electricity bills.
Energy savings
By harnessing natural sunlight, sun tubes contribute to energy savings. Reducing artificial lighting during daylight hours can lead to lower energy consumption.
Cost-effective solution
The installation process for sun tubes is easy and cost-effective. Extensive renovations to install skylights or windows can be costly in comparison. This makes sun tubes an option for homeowners looking to brighten specific areas on a budget.
Improve physical and mental well-being
Sun tubes improve the amount of natural sunlight in your home. Our bodies convert sunlight into vitamin D, which is needed to keep bones, teeth, and muscles healthy. Additionally, well-lit and sunny spaces contribute to a boost in serotonin levels. This improves our mood and promotes mental health.
Enhance natural lighting
Sun tubes bring natural light into dimly lit areas to improve visibility and create a brighter atmosphere. This removes the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours.
Small installation footprint
Sun tubes have a minimal impact on space compared to traditional skylights or windows. Their compact design makes them suitable in areas where larger alternatives aren’t practical.
Increased home value
The addition of energy-efficient features like sun tubes can enhance the value of a home. Buyers may view these features as attractive and be willing to pay more for a property that incorporates sustainable and cost-saving elements.
Privacy
Sun tubes can bring in natural light without compromising privacy. This can be useful in areas like bathrooms, where conventional windows might not be suitable due to privacy concerns.
No heat transfer
Unlike traditional windows, sun tubes do not transfer heat into the interior. This means you can enjoy the benefits of natural light without the potential downside of increased heat. This makes them suitable for various climates and seasons.
Do sun tubes save money in the long term?
Sun tubes can lead to long-term cost savings. Reduced reliance on artificial lighting during the day leads to decreased electricity bills. This can contribute to large savings over time. Additionally, the energy efficiency of sun tubes aligns with sustainable practices.
This makes them a sensible investment with a favourable return on investment (ROI) when it comes to selling your home in the future.
Can you install a sun tube yourself?
When considering any DIY project, evaluating your skill level and physical capability is crucial. For most people, self-installation of a sun tube is not a practicable option. It can be dangerous to work on a roof without prior experience and specialist equipment.
As well as the risk to your health, there are other risks to your home by not correctly installing the sun tube. Properly sealing the sun tube is important to prevent leaks and drafts. A professional will ensure the tube is installed faultlessly.
For safety and efficiency, hiring a professional is advised.
Get a quote for a sub tube
Find out exactly what a sun tube would cost you with Solatube. We have 100s of satisfied customers for our daylighting and ventilation systems.
Schedule an appointment with one of our experienced Daylight Design Consultants for advice, recommendations, and a bespoke quote.
Sun tube FAQs
Read some frequently asked questions we receive from people interested in the installation of a sun tube.
Are sun tubes suitable for all rooms?
Sun tubes are versatile and can be installed in various rooms. This includes bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways.
Do sun tubes need maintenance?
Sun tubes generally require minimal maintenance. Periodic cleaning of the dome and diffuser to remove dirt and debris is recommended to ensure optimal light transmission.
What are the main components of a sun tube system?
The main components include the rooftop dome, reflective tube, and diffuser.
Do I need planning permission to install a sun tube?
Typically, the answer is no. Sun tubes are often considered permitted development. However, it’s advisable to check local regulations. One of our Daylight Design Consultants can confirm if you require planning permission.
Do sun tubes provide natural light during cloudy days?
While sun tubes are most effective on sunny days, they can still provide some natural light during cloudy days. However, the amount of light may be less compared to sunny conditions.
How long do sun tubes last?
The reflective tubing in a sun tube can last up to 20 years, while the rigid tubing in your roof space should last indefinitely. All Solatube Daylighting System components are covered by a 10-year warranty.
Can sun tubes be used as a replacement for traditional skylights?
Sun tubes are often considered an alternative to traditional skylights. They are more cost-effective, easier to install, and can be used in spaces where traditional skylights may not be practical.
Are sun tubes energy-efficient?
Yes. Sun tubes are energy-efficient as they harness natural sunlight. This reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day, lowering energy consumption.
Can sun tubes be installed in existing buildings?
Yes, sun tubes can be retrofitted into existing buildings. The installation process involves cutting a hole in the roof and ceiling to accommodate the tube.