Skylight Installation Cost (2026): New, Replacement and Tubular Units

Skylight installation is priced by unit type, roof construction, and how much interior finish work the light shaft requires. Replacing an existing curb-mounted unit is a predictable half-day job; cutting a new opening through a finished ceiling is a multi-trade job.

What does skylight installation cost?

Replacing an existing skylight runs $600 to $1,800 per unit including flashing. A new fixed skylight with a drywalled shaft runs $1,500 to $3,500. Vented or motorized units run $2,000 to $5,000. Tubular skylights (light tubes) are $500 to $1,200 installed.

What factors move the price?

• Roof pitch and material — tile and metal cost more to flash than asphalt shingle
• Rafter cutting and headers required to widen the opening
• Attic depth: a deep, angled light shaft means more framing and drywall
• Finish work: drywall, mud, paint, and trim on the shaft
• Electrical for vented/blackout-shade units

How should you quote the shaft work?

Separate the roofing scope (opening, curb, flashing, weatherproofing) from the interior scope (framing the shaft, drywall, finish, paint). Homeowners underestimate the interior side, and an estimate that shows both prevents the "why is a window this expensive" conversation.

What leak-risk factors should the estimate flag?

Note the flashing method (a proper step-and-counterflashing kit, not caulk), the condition of the surrounding roof, and whether the roof is near end of life — installing a new skylight into a 20-year-old roof means you will be back when the roof is replaced. Recommend doing both together if the timing is close.

Example: new fixed skylight in a vaulted kitchen

Line item	How it's priced	Example
Fixed deck-mount skylight unit	Cost + markup	$650
Cut opening, header one rafter	Hours × rate	$450
Flashing kit and underlayment	Materials + markup	$180
Roofing tie-in and shingle work	Hours × rate	$350
Interior drywall return, mud and paint	Flat or sq ft	$550
Interior trim	Linear ft	$120
Permit (where required)	Fee	$150
Total		$2,450

Illustrative numbers only. Use your own rates, production times and local costs.

A vaulted ceiling avoids a long light shaft. The same skylight under a flat ceiling with a deep attic would add shaft framing, insulation and more drywall.

Photos to ask for before quoting

• The room ceiling where the skylight would go
• The roof from the ground, showing pitch and material
• The attic space above the location, if there is one
• For replacements: the existing skylight inside and out, and any water stains

With these, you can tell whether it's a curb swap, a deck-mount install, or a full shaft job before you climb a ladder.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to replace a skylight?

Replacing an existing skylight commonly runs about $600 to $1,800 per unit including flashing. Larger units, steep or tile roofs and interior repairs raise the price.

Are tubular skylights cheaper than standard skylights?

Usually yes. Light tubes need a smaller roof opening and no drywalled shaft, so they're often installed for about $500 to $1,200.

Should a skylight be replaced when the roof is replaced?

Often, yes. Replacing older skylights during a reroof avoids disturbing new shingles later and lets the roofer install new flashing properly.