I’m considering putting a 2′ x 4′ openable skylight in a rental unit. To prevent damage to sheetrock from careless use of a mechanical pole, I thought an electrically driven, hard-wired (no remotes to lose) mechanism would be best.
But I’ve heard there have been problems with these electric units. Of course, if anybody can think of a way to protect the sheetrock or other lining of the shaft, I’d rather go mechanical. I’d like others’ experiences and advice on this.
Get expert guidance on finding a fixer-upper that's worth the effort.
Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.
Start Free Trial NowGet instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.
Start Free Trial Now
Replies
You should get a price on the motor unit. That may help you decide if minor repairs down the road are cheaper than the larger up front cost. The units supplied by velux I have heard of no problems.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time
I have 2 Velux remote operated skylights and love them. They have been in about 2 years without trouble. They even have a 'rain sensor' that will automatically close the skylights if it starts to rain significantly, have sat and watced this feature work, extra protection level. They are not cheap, but cheap almost never pays.
Let's not confuse the issue with facts!
Attach a short stick to the crank permanantly with the eyelet on the end. Hooking on to the short rod should keep the longer hook away from the drywall.
Thank you all for your advice and time. Sungod's suggestion hits me where I live. I love simple, elegant approaches to problems, and this may just work. In California, where I am, there is a complete draught from mid-May to October or November, so we don't have to worry about surprise rainstorms. I want it to be operable to allow heat to escape, and also, this is in a kitchen without a really decent fan. I plan to replace the junky old fluourescent with some can lights ranged around the skylight. Any opinions on under-the-counter lights? A lot of people think they're useless.