Solar Tubes: Cost, Light & vs Skylights (UK)
Solar tubes (sun tunnels) bring free daylight into rooms a window cannot reach. In 2026, a solar tube in the UK costs £500-£1,200 supply and fit for a standard rigid tube through a pitched roof, with flexible tubes cheaper. A roof window is £900-£2,500 fitted and gives more light but needs a bigger opening. This guide compares solar tubes with skylights, rigid versus flexible, and where they work best.
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Solar Tubes vs Skylights Compared
A solar tube channels daylight from a small roof dome down a reflective tube into the room below. It is cheaper and simpler than a roof window, but a window gives more light and a view. Here is how the options compare in 2026.
What a solar tube is
A rigid or flexible reflective tube that channels daylight from a small roof dome into a room below, ideal for hallways, landings and internal bathrooms.
Solar tube supply and fit
£500-£1,200. A standard rigid tube through a pitched roof and short loft run. Flexible tubes are cheaper; long or complex runs cost more.
Solar tube vs roof window
A roof window is £900-£2,500 fitted and gives more light and a view, but needs a bigger opening and rafter work. A tube is smaller, cheaper and simpler.
Rigid vs flexible tube
Rigid tubes reflect more light and suit straight runs; flexible tubes bend around obstacles in the loft but lose some brightness.
Where solar tubes work best
Rooms with no outside wall or roof space for a window: hallways, landings, internal bathrooms, utility rooms and walk-in wardrobes.
Running costs and extras
Daylight is free; some tubes add a low-energy night light or ventilation kit. Flashing to suit tile or slate roofs is included in a proper fit.
Common Questions
Related Guides
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