Typically, installing a solar tube will cost you anywhere from $600 to $1,000 per tube, although the average homeowner tends to spend about $800 per tube, installation included.
A small 10-inch tube illuminates around 150 square feet, providing light the equivalent of three 100-watt light bulbs and costs between $150 to $350. The size of your solar tube depends on the space you are illuminating. Many homeowners install solar tubes in small, dim spaces like stairways and bathrooms.
How big is a solar tube?
Most solar tubes are 10 to 14 inches in diameter, though some models go up to 22 inches. A solar tube may be flexible or rigid. Rigid tubes reflect the most sunlight into the home. A 10-inch solar tube provides enough light for a space up to 200 square feet. 14-inch sun tunnels can light up to 300 square feet.
Installation typically costs 90 cents per square foot. However, most professional installers charge between $50 to $100 extra for the service. Most solar tubes require a roof slope between 3:12 to 20:12 and asphalt shingles for installation. They are not suited for installation on flat roofs or steep roofs.
There are several solar tube size options available for standardized rafters. However, if your home has wider rafters spaced 24 inches on center, your installation will require a specialty 21-inch solar tube, which will increase your total cost.
How much does it cost to install a solar tunnel?
Installing a sun tunnel on a different roofing material may add $100 to $150+ for the contractor to install a special adapter. Location – Homes in humid climates may need to wrap the solar tube with R-15 or R-19 insulation to prevent condensation build up. By itself, insulation costs $0.80 to $2.60 per square foot installed.
However, if your home has wider rafters spaced 24 inches on center, your installation will require a specialty 21-inch solar tube, which will increase your total cost. A small 10-inch tube illuminates around 150 square feet, providing light the equivalent of three 100-watt light bulbs and costs between $150 to $350.