When renovating a warehouse converted into a loft or designing a single-story extension with a rooftop terrace, zenithal light quickly becomes the only way to properly illuminate deep rooms. The fixed Ecolux skylights meet this specific need: a source of natural light without an opening mechanism, featuring an insulated curb and a polycarbonate honeycomb cover. It is essential to choose the right configuration to ensure that the installation delivers on its promises over the long term.
RE2020 Requirements and Zenithal Lighting: What the Fixed Ecolux Skylight Changes Practically
In a new habitat subject to RE2020, the total surface area of openings must comply with a regulatory ratio. The decree of August 4, 2021, sets quantified lighting thresholds: 300 lux in 50% of spaces with permanent occupancy and 100 lux in 95% of those same spaces, for more than half of the daylight hours throughout the year.
A classic vertical opening is not always sufficient, especially in a living room set back from the facade or under a flat roof. This is where the fixed Ecolux skylight plays its role: installed on a waterproof covering, it captures zenithal light, which is much more uniform than lateral light sources.
Specifically, in a modern housing project, integrating one or more fixed Ecolux skylights into the calculation of glazed surface area allows for meeting regulatory thresholds without multiplying openings on the facade. You can find fixed Ecolux equipment at Concept Habitat with various configurations suitable for waterproof or dry coverings.
Honeycomb Polycarbonate: Thickness 10 mm or 16 mm Depending on Thermal Constraints
The cover of a fixed Ecolux is offered in honeycomb polycarbonate with a thickness of 10 or 16 mm. This is not a cosmetic detail. The choice between the two directly affects the thermal performance of the skylight and, by extension, the building’s energy consumption.
When to Prefer 16 mm
On a poorly insulated roof or in a cold climate zone, the 16 mm cover offers better thermal resistance. The thickness of the polycarbonate influences the Urc coefficient of the skylight, meaning its ability to limit heat loss through the roof. For a modern habitat aiming for a high-performance envelope, 16 mm is often the default choice.
When 10 mm Remains Relevant
In a mixed-use building, an artist’s studio, or a light extension in a temperate climate, 10 mm may suffice. It allows a bit more light to pass through and reduces the weight on the curb. Feedback varies on this point: some installers systematically prefer 16 mm for mechanical rigidity, while others adapt on a case-by-case basis.
Insulated Metal Curb and Polyester Base: Choose According to the Type of Covering
Ecolux and Ecobac are often confused. The difference lies in the type of covering support, which conditions the entire installation.
- The fixed Ecolux consists of a 350 mm insulated metal curb and a cover. It is designed for waterproof covering types (rooftop terrace, bituminous or synthetic membrane).
- The fixed Ecobac uses a sandwich polyester base, shaped to fit the ribs of an insulated steel tray. It is suitable for dry coverings (industrial buildings, converted warehouses).
- The choice between the two depends exclusively on the type of existing covering. Installing an Ecolux on a steel tray without an appropriate curb creates a thermal bridge and a risk of infiltration.
For a modern habitat resulting from rehabilitation (loft, renovated barn), the nature of the covering should first be identified before ordering. A quick diagnosis of the support avoids costly adjustments after installation.
Sizing and Positioning on the Roof: Common Mistakes
Ecolux offers a wide range of dimensions. This flexibility is an advantage, but it sometimes leads to oversizing or poorly distributing the skylights on the roof plan.
A skylight that is too large on a small span overheats the room in summer. Conversely, several small skylights well distributed help to homogenize natural lighting and limit light contrasts. On a rectangular single-story plan, it is generally preferable to have two to three points of zenithal light rather than one large central cover.
Positioning is as important as surface area. A fixed Ecolux placed above a hallway poorly illuminates the adjacent living area. It is better to center on living areas, taking into account the sun’s path to avoid direct glare in the middle of the day.
Accessibility for Maintenance
A fixed skylight does not open, but it requires periodic cleaning of the cover and checking the curb’s waterproofing. Planning secure access to the roof from the design stage (lifeline, compliant access hatch) simplifies maintenance throughout the building’s lifespan. Regulations on crinoline ladders and fall protection devices are evolving: it is better to integrate these constraints into the initial project.
Reducing Electricity Consumption: A Measurable Gain on Artificial Lighting
The main argument for fixed Ecolux skylights remains the reduction of electricity consumption related to artificial lighting. In a modern habitat, deep rooms (open kitchen to living room, centrally located office) often operate with lighting on during the day.
A well-sized and well-positioned skylight makes this lighting unnecessary for most daylight hours. Natural zenithal light covers a much wider diffusion angle than a traditional roof window, which reduces shadow areas.
- Fewer artificial light points needed in the electrical plan
- Direct reduction of the energy bill for lighting
- Improvement of visual comfort and occupant well-being, documented by the objectives of RT2012 included in RE2020
The fixed Ecolux skylight is not a spectacular piece of equipment. It is a technical component whose quality of installation and proper sizing determine the essence of the result. An appropriate cover for the climate zone, a properly insulated curb on the right type of covering, and thoughtful positioning on the roof plan: these three parameters are enough to transform the natural lighting of a modern habitat.
