ODL Tubular Skylights are designed to bring natural light into interior spaces. Installation requires careful attention to provided instructions and adherence to safety precautions. These skylights are intended for use with roof slopes ranging from 3:12 to 12:12. The installation process involves locating a suitable position in the ceiling, identifying the roof location, and ensuring the tube avoids obstructions in the attic. Proper tools and safety equipment are essential for a successful installation. The product is covered by a limited lifetime warranty, with specific exclusions and claim procedures.
Pre-Installation Planning and Considerations
Prior to commencing installation, a thorough review of all instructions is recommended to familiarize installers with the parts and procedures. Expect the installation to take between one and three hours. Identifying and organizing all parts before assembly, and creating a list of necessary tools for each installation location, will streamline the process. The documentation emphasizes the importance of safety throughout the installation.
The skylight is not designed to bear weight, and users should avoid walking on or placing objects on the skylight to prevent personal injury and property damage. Any damage to the skylight should be addressed immediately. It is recommended to consult local building officials regarding construction ordinances and community covenants, as some subdivisions may restrict skylight placement on certain sides of a home.
Locating the Ceiling and Roof Positions
The initial step involves determining the desired position of the tubular skylight in the ceiling. A stud finder or hammer can be used to locate a position between ceiling joists. A coat hanger wire is then inserted through the selected hole to aid in identifying the location from the attic.
In the attic, the coat hanger wire is located and adjusted to center the opening for the tube between framing members. Visibility of the wire from both the ceiling below and the intended roof opening must be verified. For angled tube installations, adjustments may be necessary to avoid obstructions such as valleys, wiring, plumbing, ducts, or framing.
Tools and Parts Identification
A comprehensive list of tools required for installation includes a carpenter pencil, claw hammer, ladder, measuring tape, Phillips screwdriver, plumb line, safety equipment, power drill, power saw, metal shears, flat pry bar, and a non-curing/non-hardening roof sealant (not provided in the kit). Specific skylight models may require additional parts, such as a severe weather tube with seamless aluminum flashing for regions with harsh weather conditions or those subject to specific building codes like Dade County and the Texas Gulf Coast.
Key components of the ODL Tubular Skylight include the ceiling ring with flip tabs, a low-profile insulated diffuser lens assembly, dome screws, flashing screws, flashing washers, and a roll of foil tape. Two hole cutting templates are also provided.
Installation Procedures – General Guidance
The documentation provides guidance for straight and angled tube installations. For straight installations, a plumb line is used to establish a straight line from the ceiling hole to the roof location. A nail is driven through the roof deck and shingles to mark the spot.
When obstructions are present, an angled tube installation may be necessary. The documentation references specific sections for various roof types, including cathedral ceilings, long tube shaft installations, metal roofs, and tile roofs. It is important to consult the section relevant to the specific roof type before proceeding.
Tube Installation and Length Considerations
The tubular skylight tubing is available in sections, with a 48-inch section typically included. Additional extension tubes can be purchased separately if a longer tube is required. The documentation recommends installing the tube as straight as possible to ensure the dome/flashing is directly above the ceiling diffuser.
Careful consideration should be given to the location chosen on the roof to ensure it receives direct sunlight throughout the day, avoiding shadows cast by trees or other structures. A pre-installation survey of the attic area is crucial to identify and avoid any potential obstructions.
Roof Pitch and Building Codes
ODL Tubular Skylights are designed for roof slopes between 3:12 and 12:12. “Roof Pitch” is defined as the vertical drop of the roof for every 12 inches of horizontal run. Installers are advised to consult local building officials regarding construction ordinances before beginning installation.
Safety Precautions
Safety is a paramount concern during installation. The documentation stresses the importance of always using safe procedures, wearing safety glasses when working with tools, and checking all measurements before cutting or drilling. Protective work gloves should be worn while handling tube sections to prevent injury from sharp edges.
Warranty Information
ODL Tubular Skylights are covered by a limited lifetime warranty to the original consumer purchaser. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship that render the product unfit for its normal and recommended use.
The warranty does not cover defects or damages arising from shipment, improper handling or cleaning, incorrect installation, accidents, acts of God, misuse, abuse, or exposure to extreme conditions. It also excludes labor, shipping charges, and accessories manufactured by other companies.
To file a warranty claim, the customer must contact ODL Customer Service at 1-866-635-4968 or submit a written claim to the Customer Service Manager. ODL will, at its option, provide a replacement product or part. The warranty on the replacement will last only for the balance of the original warranty period.
Conclusion
The ODL Tubular Skylight offers a means of introducing natural light into interior spaces. Successful installation relies on careful planning, adherence to the provided instructions, and a commitment to safety. Understanding the specific requirements for roof pitch, potential obstructions, and building codes is crucial. The limited lifetime warranty provides coverage against defects in materials and workmanship, subject to specific exclusions and claim procedures.