Using Velux Sun Tunnels in Commercial Buildings
Architects are turning to natural light more often, both to cut energy costs and to improve the look and feel of a space. Velux sun tunnels, for instance, are being used in offices, shopping centers, and other commercial settings. The question is how effective they really are, where they work best, and what challenges they might bring.
Minimalist Design: How Flat Glass Fits In
Artificial lighting is a familiar but costly tool in any business space. Sun Tunnels offer the opportunity to use daylight, especially in places where window installation is impossible, such as corridors, restrooms, or storage areas.
Installing a Velux sun tunnel allows for:
- Reduced energy consumption,
- Lower operational costs,
- Improved overall space perception.
Natural light helps employees feel alert and focused. Clients also notice the brighter, more welcoming environment.
Condensation: An Invisible but Important Issue
Even with all their benefits, one consideration for Velux sun tunnels is condensation. In places with high humidity or fluctuating temperatures, moisture can accumulate inside the system, potentially shortening its lifespan and reducing its performance.
To prevent this problem, Velux recommends:
- Using airtight connections,
- Installing vapor barriers,
- Ensuring proper ventilation during installation.
What might seem like minor details during installation can later lead to compromised sealing and damage to finishes. A sun tunnel should not only bring light but also work reliably every day.
The Aesthetics of Minimalism: Flat Glass as Part of the Architecture
A sun tunnel does not have to be just a “tube on the roof.” The Velux flat-glass sun tunnel provides a modern way to bring daylight into commercial buildings. Its elegant design and sleek frame integrate seamlessly with contemporary architecture. The flat glass transmits light efficiently, and the tunnel merges smoothly with the roof. It suits offices, classrooms, or stores, introducing brightness without disrupting the overall design.
Light in Unexpected Places: Where Sun Tunnels Are Useful
There are areas of buildings where natural light does not reach, even with good glazing. It is where sun tunnels become indispensable, bringing daylight into areas where window installation is not feasible due to structural or functional reasons.
They work particularly well in:
- Narrow, windowless corridors,
- Technical rooms,
- Restrooms and showers,
- Waiting areas and hallways.
In spaces without access to daylight, sun tunnels create the sensation of a window, without the need to alter the building’s facade.
Why This is Not DIY: Installation Requires Expertise
Installing a sun tunnel might seem simple: just cut a hole in the roof and install a light-transmitting tube. However, in practice, installation requires:
- Precise calculations of the tube’s length and angle,
- Careful work with roofing materials,
- Sealing all connections and proper insulation.
Reliable installation requires skilled professionals. Done right, sun tunnels improve light quality without energy loss or moisture problems, making them a practical choice for commercial spaces.
Velux commercial sun tunnels bring daylight into commercial buildings in a practical, unobtrusive way. When installed correctly, they save energy and improve the indoor environment. They work well in offices, classrooms, and stores, combining practicality with a clean design. A thoughtful approach to design and installation ensures lasting benefits and a comfortable space for all.