Synavax Inc., a company focused on nanoscience solutions for sustainability and energy efficiency, now offers their clear building insulation coating, Energy Protect, as a way to insulate skylights effectively while still allowing through the visible light, and reducing glare and UV damage. Skylights have long been a great way to add the beauty of natural light into a building. They can transform spaces from dark and confined to a beautiful connection between architecture and nature. LEED even includes a special energy saving points category for daylighting, which is traditionally done through use of skylights, by awarding points on the savings from using traditional electric lighting.
Unfortunately as gorgeous as skylights are, they have their problems. Many times, the designer will love the skylights, but the energy professional will have legitimate concerns about the energy loss from high heat transfer rates that allow heat into the building in the summer and let it escape in the winter. There are also issues with glare, UV damage, fading, and condensation.