Solar tubes (also known as daylight tubes, tubular skylights or sun tunnels) bring natural daylight into rooms that don’t receive direct sunlight. They capture sunlight on your roof and channel it through a reflective tube into your home. A professional solar tube installation can transform dark spaces into bright, usable areas without the need for traditional windows.
Why Choose a Solar Tube?
Solar tubes provide daylight in spaces where installing a roof window or rooflight is difficult or expensive. They cost less than roof windows and work in almost any type of property.
Key benefits include:
- Naturally bright daylight
- Lower energy bills
- Fast installation
- No structural changes
- Minimal heat loss
- Works in all seasons
Solar tubes are especially popular in hallways, stairwells, lofts, bathrooms, kitchens and internal rooms.
Where Can Solar Tubes Be Installed?
Solar tubes fit on a wide range of roof types:
- Pitched roofs (tile or slate)
- Flat roofs (felt, EPDM, GRP, asphalt)
- Metal roofs
- Dormer roofs
- Garage and extension roofs
Installers assess your roof structure and recommend the best position for maximum light.
Rigid vs Flexible Solar Tube Installation
Rigid and flexible solar tubes work differently, and choosing the right type makes a big difference in performance.
| Tube Type | Best Use | Light Output | Cost Range (Installed) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rigid | Long straight runs, wide daylight reach | Very high | £900 – £1,800 |
| Flexible | Short, curved or tight loft spaces | Moderate | £600 – £1,200 |
Tip: Rigid tubes typically deliver 20–60% more light than flexible tubes if loft space allows.
Solar Tube Brands
Several quality brands offer solar tube systems for UK homes. Each uses different designs, flashing and diffuser technology.
Solatube
Premium daylighting systems with outstanding brightness and excellent condensation control kits.
Velux
Reliable pitch and flat roof kits with sturdy flashing and easy diffuser installation.
Fakro
Good value systems for standard pitched roofs.
LiteLite
Affordable daytime lighting solutions for quick installations.
Typical Solar Tube Installation Costs
Costs depend on roof type, tube length and product choice. Use the guide below as a reference:
- Standard installation: £600 – £1,200
- Premium systems (Solatube / Velux): £1,200 – £2,500
- Flat roof installation: £1,200 – £2,800
- Ceiling diffuser upgrades: £80 – £250
Several quotes help determine a fair price for your property.
Installation Process
A qualified installer usually completes the work in half a day:
- Roof inspection and measurement
- Cutting the roof opening
- Fitting flashing and sealing
- Installing the reflective tube
- Mounting the interior diffuser
- Testing light levels and sealing loft insulation
Most homeowners see an immediate improvement in daylight as soon as installation finishes.
Solar Tube vs Roof Window
Choosing between a solar tube and a roof window depends on your needs, budget and building layout.
| Feature | Solar Tube | Roof Window (Velux) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Installation | Faster | More complex |
| Natural Light | Diffused daylight | Full window light |
| Heat Loss | Minimal | Moderate |
| Roof Changes | Minimal | Structural changes required |
Solar tubes suit rooms where structural roof upgrades are impractical or expensive.
Extra Features
You can enhance solar tubes with optional upgrades:
- LED night lighting
- Condensation control kits
- Diffuser styles (flat, frosted, prismatic)
- Energy-saving insulation sleeves
- Light dimmers
These increase comfort and give you more control over light levels day and night.
Get Free Solar Tube Installation Quotes
Tell us about your home and receive up to four free quotes from local specialists. Every installer we work with is vetted, insured and experienced in fitting solar tubes on pitched and flat roofs.
Brighten your home naturally — request free solar tube installation quotes today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do solar tubes work on cloudy days?
Yes. They use a reflective tube to capture ambient light even in overcast conditions.
Do solar tubes require planning permission?
In most cases, no. Solar tubes are usually classed as permitted development.
Can I install a solar tube in a bathroom?
Yes. With a condensation kit or vapour barrier, solar tubes work very well in bathrooms and kitchens.
How long does installation take?
Most solar tube installations take 2–4 hours.
Are solar tubes energy-efficient?
Yes. They require no electricity during daylight hours and help reduce lighting costs.