Are Tubular Skylights Safe in Storms?

Storm season brings heavy rain, strong winds, and sometimes hail. For anyone considering a skylight, it is natural to wonder how well the product holds up when the weather turns. We get this question from time to time at BM Skylights in Wollongong, especially after a stretch of wild weather. No one wants to be lying in bed during a downpour wondering if the ceiling is about to drip.

The good news is that tubular skylights are built for outdoor exposure, and several features make them well suited to handle rough conditions.

A Low-Profile Design

One of the key advantages of a tubular skylight in stormy conditions is its compact dome. Unlike traditional flat skylights, which can have a large raised profile on the roof, the Solatube dome sits low and rounded. This shape reduces wind resistance and gives strong gusts less surface area to push against. There is simply less of the product exposed to the elements.

Impact-Resistant Materials

The rooftop dome on a Solatube skylight is made from impact-resistant polycarbonate. This material is tough and designed to withstand hail and debris that can occur during storms. It doesn't shatter the way glass might, and it holds its shape under pressure. This makes it a practical option for Australian conditions, where severe weather events are not uncommon.

Sealed Against Rain

Rain getting in is the main worry during a storm. A correctly installed tubular skylight uses purpose-built flashing to seal the point where the dome connects to the roof. This flashing directs water away from the roof penetration. When installed properly, the skylight handles heavy, wind-driven rain without allowing water into the ceiling cavity below.

No Moving Parts That Can Be Compromised

Traditional roof windows and some skylights have openings, hinges, or mechanical parts that can be damaged or forced in a storm. Tubular skylights don't open. The dome is fixed and fully sealed. There are no gaps, no joints that can be pushed apart by wind, and no mechanisms that rely on seals remaining perfect over many years.

What About Hail?

Hail is a concern in many parts of Australia. The polycarbonate dome on a Solatube skylight is built to handle impact. While extremely large hailstones can damage a wide range of roofing materials, the dome is designed to resist the kind of hail experienced in most Australian weather events. If you're in an area prone to severe hail, it's worth discussing this with your installer when planning your project.

Installation Quality Matters

Even the best product can be let down by poor installation. In storm conditions, a skylight with incorrectly seated flashing or insufficient sealing is at risk of leaking. This is why professional, certified installation for Solatube skylights is so important. Not just for everyday performance, but for how the skylight holds up when the weather is at its worst.

Trust BM Skylights for a Secure Installation

At BM Skylights, we install every Solatube skylight with the same level of care, whether the forecast is calm or unpredictable. We're certified Solatube installers serving Wollongong, Helensburgh, Nowra, Shoalhaven, and the Southern Highlands. If you want a skylight that's built to stand up to Australian weather, we're here to help. Reach out for a free consultation. We're always happy to answer your questions.