Velux vs Fakro vs Other Brands

When you’re looking to bring more natural light into your home, the skylight market can feel like a maze of brands, features, and price points. You've probably heard the big names like Velux and Fakro thrown around, but what really sets them, and other players like Sun Tek, apart? It’s more than just a name; it’s about finding the right fit for your home’s specific needs, your budget, and your long term expectations.

If you’re a homeowner or a contractor trying to navigate these choices, you’re in the right place. We get it. You want a solution that’s not only going to flood your space with light but will also be a leak free, energy efficient, and lasting investment. At Roofing4US, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to break down the real differences to help you choose with confidence.

Let’s move beyond a simple brand versus brand list and dive into the features that truly matter.

The Heart of the Matter: Glazing and Energy Efficiency

 

What really separates a good skylight from a great one? A lot of it comes down to the glass. This is where you’ll find major differences in performance and price.

• Velux really leans into its premium status here. They often use advanced Low E coatings and argon gas fills as standard in their double and triple glazed units. Their ThermoTechnology™ incorporates high performance materials directly into the frame, boosting insulation. This is a big reason why many of their models are ENERGY STAR® certified, making them eligible for those juicy 30% federal tax credits. For anyone focused on maximizing energy savings, Velux is a top contender.

• Fakro competes strongly by offering fantastic value. They also provide high quality double and triple glazed windows, with some models boasting a U value (a measure of heat loss) that is even lower than some of Velux's standard options. This means excellent thermal performance without the premium price tag. They are a smart choice for builders and homeowners who want top tier insulation on a more controlled budget. For more on how window insulation impacts your home's overall efficiency, our sister site Insulation4Us has some great resources.

• Other Brands like Sun Tek often specialize in polycarbonate domes, which are incredibly durable and impact resistant. While these might not always match the thermal performance of high end glass, they are a fantastic, cost effective solution for workshops, garages, or areas prone to extreme weather like hail.

 

Installation: Is One Easier for Pros and DIYers?

 

A skylight is only as good as its installation. A poorly installed window, regardless of the brand, is a recipe for disaster. Both Velux and Fakro know this and have invested heavily in making the process as foolproof as possible.

You'll find that VELUX is famous for its comprehensive flashing kits. Their "No Leak" promise is built on a three layer protection system of pre installed gaskets, step flashing, and adhesive underlayment. This system is a favorite among professional roofers because it’s reliable and relatively quick, typically taking a pro 4 to 6 hours. For the confident DIYer, their detailed instructions are a huge plus.

Fakro holds its own with universal flashing systems and often lighter frames, which can be a real back saver during installation. A unique feature on some models is the ability to install from the inside, which is a game changer for certain roof types or attics with tricky access. The installation time is very similar to Velux, around 3 to 5 hours.

The bottom line is that for either brand, a successful, leak free result comes down to carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions.

 

Long Term Living: What Do Real Homeowners Say?

 

After the installation is done and the tools are put away, how do these brands hold up year after year?

Online forums and Reddit threads are filled with homeowners praising their decades old Velux windows. It's common to see reports of skylights lasting 15, 20, or even more years without a single leak when installed correctly. Users love the quietness during rainstorms and the fade protection from the UV coated glass. The main complaints tend to revolve around the higher initial cost and the eventual failure of motors in the automated models after 8 to 10 years of use.

Fakro gets a lot of love for its sheer robustness and value. Owners frequently report getting 12 to 15 years of trouble free performance, praising the excellent insulation of the triple glazed options and their durability. The biggest trade off? Fewer "smart" features. This means less can go wrong with motors and electronics, but you also miss out on the convenience of automation that Velux champions.

 

Warranties and Support: Who Has Your Back?

 

Both companies offer solid warranties. Velux provides a 10 year warranty on the skylight itself and a 3 year warranty on electronics and blinds. They have a strong reputation for honoring their warranties and providing excellent customer support. Fakro also offers a 10 year warranty on their roof windows. While their support is generally good, the process can sometimes be a bit less streamlined than with the market leader.

 

Making the Final Call: Which Skylight is for You?

 

So, let's circle back to your project.

• If your priority is cutting edge smart home integration, automation, and securing every possible energy credit, Velux is likely your best bet.

• If you're looking for the best possible insulation and durability for your money and are happy with manual operation, Fakro offers an incredible value proposition.

• If you need a tough, impact resistant skylight for a utility space or live in a hail prone region, exploring options from Sun Tek could be the most practical choice.

No matter which direction you go, you can find a wide selection of top quality skylights from these brands and more over at www.roofing4us.com. We’re here to help you bring your vision to light.