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2026 project cost

Install Skylight Cost

By Muhammad Tayyab Updated Published

$1,607 to $2,593 for 1 unit, or about $1606.81–$2592.63 per unit. That covers 7 material line items and about 8 labor hours, plus a permit.

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each

Estimated total

$1,607 – $2,593

materials + labor + permit

Materials—
Labor—
Per unit—

What the materials cost

What you are paying for
Cost composition for install skylight Materials $1,246, 48 percent. Labor $846, 33 percent. Permit $500, 19 percent
  • Materials 48% · $1,246
  • Labor 33% · $846
  • Permit 19% · $500

Quantities for 1 unit, including a 5% waste allowance.

Material Qty Cost
30-1/16-in x 45-3/4-in Fixed Deck mount Aluminum Skylight with Laminated Low-E argon Glass Room Darkening 1.05 EA $671 – $948
Interior Trim Kit 1.05 EA $42 – $95
Shingles (for patching) 21 SF $32 – $63
2-in Smooth Shank Electro-galvanized Roofing Nails 3817 -Per Box 1.05 EA $42 – $60
Roofing Underlayment 16.8 SF $17 – $34
Instant waterproof repairs 6-in x 25-ft Silver Aluminum Self-adhesive roll flashing 1.05 EA $19 – $26
501 10.1-oz Elastomeric Roof Sealant 1.05 EA $8 – $21

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How long it takes

  1. 1

    Planning & Preparation 1-2 hours

    Measure and mark skylight location, check roof structure, and gather all required tools and materials for installation in your area.

  2. 2

    Cutting Roof Opening 2 hours

    Remove roofing materials, cut the roof deck to size, and frame the opening to support the skylight according to your area building codes.

  3. 3

    Skylight Installation 2-3 hours

    Set skylight in place, secure with fasteners, and install flashing to ensure a watertight seal in your area.

  4. 4

    Interior Finishing & Cleanup 1-2 hours

    Repair drywall, add trim, paint as needed, and clean up all debris to complete the skylight installation in your area.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to install a skylight?

$1,607 to $2,593 for 1 unit. That splits into $831 to $1,246 in materials, $626 to $846 in labor across 8 hours, and $150 to $500 for the permit. The unit itself is most of the material, at $639 to $903 for a fixed deck-mount skylight before flashing and sealant. Cutting and framing the opening is where the labor goes.

Do I need a permit to install a skylight in your area?

Yes, and it is not a rounding error on a job this size: $150 to $500 in your area is up to 19% of the total. Worth getting itemised on the estimate before you sign.

What drives the cost of installing a skylight the most?

Materials run about 48% of the total and labor 33%, with the permit at 19%. The two heaviest lines are fixed deck mount aluminum skylight and interior trim kit, the first reaching $948 on its own. Labor lands around $846 at a billed crew rate, which is the part that moves most by state.

What are the benefits of installing a skylight in your area?

Installing a skylight in your area can significantly enhance natural light in your home, reducing the need for artificial lighting. It can also improve ventilation and add aesthetic value to your property.

How long does it take to install a skylight?

The longest stretch is skylight installation at 2-3 hours, with planning & preparation adding 1-2 hours. Across all 4 stages that is installing a skylight start to finish.

What factors should I consider before installing a skylight?

Before installing a skylight in your area, consider the roof structure, the position for optimal light, and potential heat gain or loss.

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