Skylights - What has been your experience with them?

I am not sure where in the country you live, but that does have some bearing on the effectiveness and maintenance of skylights. We had skylights in many of the places I lived in in the south, and the problems with leakage was always in the cheaper "dome" style models. It wasn't so much the rain that was a problem, as the rain when combined with high winds, which were common in Texas. The winds would blow the rain up under the flashing, and it would drip inside. You can get around this by laying down a 6" wide band of rubber polymer (the stuff they put on the roof of mobile homes) from the edge of the skylight and out. With the higher quality "drop in" skylights (made by companies like Anderson), there should be no leakage problems if they are installed properly. Also, if you DO live in a southern climate, keep in mind that the skylight will let in not only light, but also HEAT. That's nice in the winter, but can make for a really hot room in the summer. Some models come with a small roller shade built in, and that can be really handy.

We have one in our kitchen, I love it and would like to put more in if I had the cash to do it. It brings in tons of light and just feels more natural. I have never seen a drop of water from it.

My brother is a contractor and states that as long as it is installed properly there shouldn't be a problem. Finding a reputable contractor and using quality material is important.

As long as you get a knowledgeable person to do the job you should have very little problems. Skylights have improved in the recent years. I would suggest a solar tube. They seem to be able to bring in the most light in an area such as yours. The flashing available should eliminate the need especially with a solar tube for alot of maintenance.