Frequently Asked Questions

April 18, 2019 | General Info, Tech Help

Does TAM Skylights install Skylights?

TAM Skylights is a business that focuses on manufacturing skylights. You can purchase our skylights through our dealers such as roofing companies, glass stores, and lumber companies. To find a dealer near you please refer to this link. As a result, we do not offer any services for the installation our skylights. However, many of our dealers regularly work with qualified roofers who may be able to install our skylights. If your project only requires the installation of skylights, you can call us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com and we would be happy to recommend trusted roofers we work with regularly. Typically, the installation of a skylight is done at the same time as a roof installation. This is so that the roofer can be confident that the skylight is installed properly. TAM Skylights stands by our quality product and partner with other local companies to ensure your skylight needs are met..

Where can I purchase your skylights?

All of our skylights can be purchased through our dealers. A list of dealers near you can be found here. Our dealers include local roofing supply companies, lumber shops, glass stores, and a few other trusted partners. As long as skylights are purchased through a dealer, the completed skylights can be picked up at the dealer’s location or will called from our location in White Center. For any other inquiries regarding purchasing skylights, please contact us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com.

What is the difference between a Dome Skylight and a Glass Skylight?

Skylights are designed in numerous ways, and sometimes it can be overwhelming to choose. However, the first step is to figure out if you want a dome skylight or glass skylight. Click here to learn more about the differences and unique advantages. Feel free to call us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com if you have any further questions..

What is your Warranty?

TAM Skylights stands by our products and we pride ourselves in manufacturing skylights with timeless quality. With this in mind, we have warranty on our skylights to reassure our customers that our skylights will last long. For glass skylights, the warranty covers ten years under the original purchaser. Dome skylights have a warranty of five years under the original purchaser. For more information about our warranty, click here.

Do you make custom skylights?

At TAM Skylights, we pride ourselves in customizing skylights for our customers. With fifty years of experience, TAM has the knowledge and skill to transform your home in the unique ways you desire. We have made skylights with different sizes, shapes, and glass types.To get started on your custom skylight, either call us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com.

What do I need to measure if I want to order/install the proper sized skylight?

As a homeowner, it can be difficult to figure out what to measure so your skylight can be installed properly. To ensure TAM Skylights can perfectly manufacture your skylight, the most crucial information is the outside curb dimension (including any flashing or roofing material). Click here to learn more about the specifics of obtaining the necessary measurements for your skylight.

What are the advantages of an open skylight and a fixed skylight?

Both fixed and operable skylights work well to bring in natural light while maintaining insulation. However, depending on the climate, having a operable skylight can make a huge difference. Since operable skylights can be opened and closed, opening a skylight can increase the amount of natural light as well as airflow. During a hot day we recommend opening a window and opening your TAM skylight. By opening both the window and skylight, you will allow fresh air to efficiently cycle throughout your home. On a hot and sunny day operable skylights can make a stuffy house feel like a  covered patio. A fixed skylight does not open or close, but can be more advantageous because it is more cost effective and readily available. If you have any further questions, call us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com.

Can I get different types of glass?

TAM Skylights proudly offers a variety of glass for homeowners to choose from. Our skylight glass vary in different tints. The common tints include bronze, opaque white, and clear. Homeowners often purchase bronze tinted skylights because it diminishes the glare of sunlight while maintaining the same amount of natural light that enters their home. The bronze tint is often mistaken for darkening a room, however it mostly cuts the glare of any sunlight that enters the home. Opaque white is very common because it evenly disperses light around a room. Rather than having the outline and shadows of a window, natural light can fill the room in a more even and consistent way. Additionally, privacy is increased because the skylight is translucent and not transparent. White opaque glass is commonly found on skylights over bathroom applications. Lastly, clear skylights are always popular because of the increased aesthetic and ability to see one’s surroundings. Depending on your needs, certain tints will be better than others. Beyond the main three types of glass mentioned, we have plenty more options. If you have a unique project or customization, all you need to do is call us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com.

What is a thermal break?

A thermal break is a barrier put in place within our skylights to prevent any condensation from forming. This mitigates potential leaking/damage to the house. TAM Skylights uses a white PVC Frame to act as a “thermal break” that prevents the cold air from the outside from mixing with the warm air in the house. Condensation develops when these two different temperatures mix, so having the PVC Frame ensures this won’t happen. Thus, your skylight will last longer and not bring damage to your home. It is important to make sure that your skylight is properly installed and that it includes a PVC Frame. Click here to learn more about preventing leaking from happening in your home. If you have further questions or concerns, contact us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com.

What is LowE?

LowE stands for Low emissivity and refers to a coating on the inner side of a skylight’s outer panel. The lowE coating works with the insulation to provide proper heat insulation that keeps heat in, in the winter and keeps heat out in the summer.. TAM Skylights commonly uses Cardinal 270 or Cardinal 366 LoE glass. If you would like a skylight with more heat insulating properties, we can manufacture a skylight with cardinal 366 to better insulate your skylight. If you have further questions, call us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com.

How long would a custom skylight take to manufacture?

At TAM Skylights, we pride ourselves in taking our time to fashion our skylights to satisfy your needs. Depending on the project, the time it takes to manufacture the skylight varies. We also have many units that are in stock that may work for your project, please contact us to check on availability of our stock. To get an accurate estimated time of arrival (ETA), contact us at 206-763-6868 or email us at sales@tamskylights.com.