What do sun tunnels & tubular skylights in Machynlleth involve?
Thinking about sun tunnels & tubular skylights in Machynlleth? The short answer: light pipes that bring daylight to halls and bathrooms with no window. The longer answer depends on your roof, which is why we survey before we price.
Welsh planning rules exclude rooflights from permitted development in conservation areas and National Parks, so we check the designation before quoting. Typical uses for sun tunnels & tubular skylights include windowless hallways, landings and bathrooms.
We work across Powys, including Machynlleth, and in neighbouring towns such as Dolgellau and Aberystwyth. Access, parking and how the glass reaches the roof are all checked at the survey.
What you can choose
- Pitched or flat-roof flashings
- Insulated tube sections
- Integrated electric light
- Diffusers in several sizes
- Ventilation adaptor
- Rigid or flexible tubes for awkward lofts
- Daylight where no window is possible
Things we check at survey
- Gives light, not a view
- Tube runs need insulation in cold lofts to limit condensation
Planning, building control and Machynlleth
In Wales a rooflight on a house is usually permitted development if it stands no more than 15 cm proud of the roof, except on protected land such as conservation areas and National Parks, where permission is needed. Listed buildings need listed building consent from the council, and flats have no householder permitted development rights.
Approved Document L in Wales (2022 edition) sets 2.2 W/m²K for rooflights, measured horizontally, and 1.4 W/m²K or Band B for roof windows in existing homes. Wales also has its own overheating rules (Part O) for new homes, in force since November 2022.
Our planning guide covers each nation in more detail.
Guide prices for Machynlleth
Prices below are shown including and excluding VAT. In Machynlleth, as elsewhere, making good inside and access equipment are the main variables.
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large rigid tunnel, long run | £1,675 – £2,275 | £1,395 – £1,895 |
| Standard rigid tunnel Typical | £1,315 – £1,795 | £1,095 – £1,495 |
| Compact flexible tunnel | £1,075 – £1,435 | £895 – £1,195 |
How the job runs
- Tell us what you have. Send the SY20 postcode, a rough size and a couple of photos.
- Free site visit. For new installs we survey free, measure and confirm the roof detail.
- Fixed quote. Product, work and price in writing — nothing is ordered until you agree.
- Installation day. Usually one day into a prepared opening, longer for new openings.
Nearby towns
More we do in Machynlleth
Common questions
Will it get condensation?
Insulating the tube where it passes through a cold loft prevents most condensation.
Do sun tunnels need planning permission?
Usually not on a house, provided the dome does not project too far and the property is not listed. Check if you live in a conservation area or a flat.
How much light does a sun tunnel give?
A good rigid tunnel on a bright day lights a hallway well. Output depends on tube diameter, length and the number of bends.
Can you work alongside my builder in Machynlleth?
Yes. On new extensions we fit once the opening and upstand are ready and coordinate dates with your builder.
Is the survey in Machynlleth free?
Yes for new installations. Repair visits are charged, and we tell you the price before we book.
