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Dynsol
08-02-2018, 10:33 AM
Opinions please!

Planning on adding two Solar Tubes in home!

There are three companies in the area here that all have different sales pitches as to why they are the BEST.

Question: Who installed yours? Why did you pick that company? How has it worked out? Problems to watch for?

Those without them need not respond!

Thanks

:welcome:

Arctic Fox
08-02-2018, 10:43 AM
We have had excellent service from The Solar Guys - friendly and efficient, and left the place clean after instal

solar tubes have been trouble-free (no leaks etc.)

tophcfa
08-02-2018, 10:53 AM
I don't know who installed ours because they where there when we bought the house, but we really like them. I still find myself trying to turn off lights when we leave the house during the day, even though no lights are on. We did learn from our friends house a couple things about the solar tubes. First, don't put them in bedrooms (or a master bath attached to the bedroom) if you don't want to be woken up by bright light as soon as the sun comes up. Second, don't put them in a walk-in closet because the bright sun light will quickly fade the color on the clothes in the closet. Good luck with the project.

graciegirl
08-02-2018, 11:01 AM
I have never heard anything negative about Solar guys on this forum.

juneroses
08-02-2018, 11:25 AM
Our 2 were installed by Solar Lights & More in 2006. Absolutely no problems since install (and definitely no problems during the install). I no longer remember why we chose them, but have no regrets about selecting them. They were efficient, and I remember being surprised at how clean the whole install proved to be.

EdFNJ
08-02-2018, 11:36 AM
Solar Guys. Had 1 in kitchen and going to get a 2nd one. Just don't pay their "list price" because they always give $100 off.

starflyte1
08-02-2018, 11:57 AM
Love the tubes that Solar Guys installed. One in kitchen and another in windowless second bath.

Arctic Fox
08-02-2018, 11:58 AM
don't put them in bedrooms (or a master bath attached to the bedroom) if you don't want to be woken up by bright light as soon as the sun comes up. Second, don't put them in a walk-in closet because the bright sun light will quickly fade the color on the clothes in the closet.

or above a ceiling fan or the light show will drive you (and your cat) crazy

ladygolfer123
08-02-2018, 12:32 PM
Solar Guys!!

Chatbrat
08-02-2018, 12:50 PM
We were told by our builder to NOT have any additional penetrations or to not mount anything on our roof--installed additional recessed lighting in the MBR

villagetinker
08-02-2018, 01:05 PM
IMHO, I would but in a switched ceiling light, much lower cost and easily controllable, but if you want a solar light, be sure the tube is sealed very well to the flange at the ceiling. My neighbors was not and they had bugs inside the solar tube. No idea who did the installation, as it was done by the prior owners. Good luck with your project.

photo1902
08-02-2018, 01:10 PM
So much for the "Those without them need not respond!"

We are planning on having one installed in our laundry/pantry room, however we are going to add the optional LED light kit, as there are times we need additional light.

villagetinker
08-02-2018, 04:50 PM
Also, while I do not have any of these, I have helped my neighbor repair theirs, and double check the mechanism that attaches the trim ring to the flange. This failed on theirs also, the trim ring and plastic lens kept falling to the floor. The solution was to remove the "snap" attachments and replace with stainless steel sheet metal screws. After I applied to sealant (mentioned above) they now have a bug free solar light that does not fall apart.
So bottom line look carefully at the construction for the product, and ask about the details of the installation.

Toymeister
08-02-2018, 05:20 PM
I recommend the Velux products. They offer accessories that the solar guy does not. Sure they both have different defusers and light kits. But only Velux has light tube shades, a energy efficiency option to increase the R value and reduce heat, and even a diffuser that looks like a light. Also look at the solar guys flashing, it is smaller than Velux.

rivaridger1
08-02-2018, 05:25 PM
Two houses, four solar tubes, two solar fans, and radiant barrier. You would not want better people to do business with the Solar Guys. Never had an issue.

NoMoSno
08-02-2018, 08:29 PM
I don't recommend them if you live on a golf course.
Our neighbor had a golf ball go right through theirs.

Bob2H-in-1
08-02-2018, 09:06 PM
Very happy with Solar Guys, who installed one family room tube with the optional LED light and, just recently, lanai window tinting. Did both jobs very professionally, and at reasonable prices. Highly recommend 'em.

Spinning3
08-03-2018, 11:34 AM
Solar guys. Have had for ten years and love. Have one in master bath and it is not an issue; in fact love having moon light instead of night light

Fredman
08-03-2018, 02:11 PM
Solar Guys did ours. Completely happy with them.

yabbadu
08-03-2018, 05:14 PM
Also, while I do not have any of these, I have helped my neighbor repair theirs, and double check the mechanism that attaches the trim ring to the flange. This failed on theirs also, the trim ring and plastic lens kept falling to the floor. The solution was to remove the "snap" attachments and replace with stainless steel sheet metal screws. After I applied to sealant (mentioned above) they now have a bug free solar light that does not fall apart.
So bottom line look carefully at the construction for the product, and ask about the details of the installation.

What is the name of the company that installed the defective Solar Tubes?

Toymeister
08-03-2018, 09:21 PM
What is the name of the company that installed the defective Solar Tubes?

What he described is not the Velux.

If he posts a pic of the exterior dome lens I could tell you if it is the solar guys product, which, I believe, is solatube brand. Believe it or not each brand uses a distinctive shape to the exterior dome.

TheSolarGuys
08-03-2018, 10:45 PM
Thank you all for your kind words and recommendations for our company. We strive to offer our customers not only the best service but the best products as well. If you have any questions you are welcome to give us a call at 866-669-5259 or visit www.TheSolarGuys.com (http://www.thesolarguys.com). You are welcome to visit our local showroom which is located 1 mile south of The Market of Marion on 441. We also offer free in-home consultations to see exactly what situations your home is dealing with. Thanks!

Marie1
08-04-2018, 08:57 PM
Opinions please!

Planning on adding two Solar Tubes in home!

There are three companies in the area here that all have different sales pitches as to why they are the BEST.

Question: Who installed yours? Why did you pick that company? How has it worked out? Problems to watch for?

Those without them need not respond!

Thanks

:welcome:
I have skytec. They advertise at the market of Marion. They use metal where competors use plastic. Warranty is better. After you see and compare ,you will use them. The work and service is great . We could not be happier. We had three put in . Plus the attic solar fan ,which works great. We have a large designer home. Electric bill under eighty five dollars, and we run the A.C. a lot, we like it 69 in the home. So they are worth the money to keep hot air moving outa attic.

skip0358
08-05-2018, 06:18 AM
Have 5 Solar Tubes 2 Solar Fans. Love them all had them installed by Solar Guys no complaints at all. Been in since 2010 still think I have the lights on sometimes. If you can wait until one of the Vendor fairs you can sometimes catch a better deal

queasy27
08-05-2018, 09:28 AM
Two different houses and three solar tubes done by the The Solar Guys. Great products, fair pricing, and super efficient and easy to work with. Eight years and no leaks or other problems. They also expertly installed tinted film on the jalousie windows in my lanai, which wasn't easy.

I have a dark interior kitchen (Galveston model) and the difference the solar tube made in there is literally night vs day.

Toymeister
08-05-2018, 09:46 AM
I have skytec. They advertise at the market of Marion. They use metal where competors use plastic. Warranty is better. After you see and compare ,you will use them. The work and service is great . We could not be happier. We had three put in . Plus the attic solar fan ,which works great. We have a large designer home. Electric bill under eighty five dollars, and we run the A.C. a lot, we like it 69 in the home. So they are worth the money to keep hot air moving outa attic.

Skytec installs Velux brand. They do not manufacturer anything, just as solar guys do not. Point is the installation is important but t manufacturer is more important in terms of the warranty.

jclrxman
08-05-2018, 10:21 AM
Solar Guys

Lottoguy
08-05-2018, 11:08 AM
Our house also came with solar tube lights. They are in each bathroom. I like them there. They are great to have.

KathieI
08-05-2018, 12:08 PM
Had 3 in my previous house since 2008 installed by Solar Guys. Loved them. Never a problem and the installation was a breeze. Intend to get more in my new villa but haven't done it as yet. Will go with Solar Guys again.

Abby10
08-05-2018, 12:34 PM
Solar guys here too. Had 3 installed about 4 years ago - no issues. They provided great service, great clean-up afterward, and were very helpful and knowledgeable about what to get and where to install for maximum benefit.

Barefoot
08-05-2018, 05:32 PM
Solar guys here too. Had 3 installed about 4 years ago - no issues. They provided great service, great clean-up afterward, and were very helpful and knowledgeable about what to get and where to install for maximum benefit.
Another vote for Solar Guys, they're the best! Four sun tunnels -- nothing but happy.

ehendersonjr
08-06-2018, 04:18 AM
The material used to channel the sunlight is important because the more reflective power, the greater the light provided in the home. The material in Solatube products has essentially the same reflective power I used to protect satellite components. That said, Solar Guys install Solatube products and I’ve had these installed in three different homes in two different states and have never regretted it. Installers here were great.

popbaby2
08-06-2018, 04:40 AM
Solar guys. Usd them in two different houses. Efficient, tidy and no problems whatsoever.

vapelican
08-06-2018, 05:58 AM
We used Solar Guys after my husband did much research. Great service, efficient and no problems. We have a Begonia Designer and put them in the kitchen, dining room, hall bath, master bathroom, utility room and added two solar fans in the garage attic.

OhioBuckeye
08-06-2018, 06:12 AM
I have never heard anything negative about Solar guys on this forum.

GRACIEGIRL, I don't want to step on your toes but I've had lawn service guys bad mouth another Lawn Service Co. why they are better than their competitors. Personally I think a lot of service people take advantage of the people of TV. Can't speak about Solar Guys though! Sorry

OhioBuckeye
08-06-2018, 06:16 AM
Opinions please!

Planning on adding two Solar Tubes in home!

There are three companies in the area here that all have different sales pitches as to why they are the BEST.

Question: Who installed yours? Why did you pick that company? How has it worked out? Problems to watch for?

Those without them need not respond!

Thanks

:welcome:

I would think the only problem you should worry about is, LEAKING. Don't think they're a big deal to put in! My biggest issue would be the price.

nancyre
08-06-2018, 06:26 AM
Solar Guys - clean efficient, should have done 2 . FYI passed the windstorm inspection after with Flying colors after putting in the solar tube and the solar attic fan ( same visit saves $).

jrosaltal1
08-06-2018, 06:41 AM
I had the same bug problem in the kitchen solar light. It had been done several years ago by The Solar Guys and I called them. They just told me I could easily unscrew it from the inside ceiling and clean it. Seemed like they just brushed me off.

ghazen0001
08-06-2018, 06:54 AM
we used the solar guys on our house very satisfied

toeser
08-06-2018, 07:10 AM
We were told by our builder to NOT have any additional penetrations or to not mount anything on our roof--installed additional recessed lighting in the MBR

Must have been a poor builder. We have had six solar tubes in our home for probably 20 years with absolutely zero problems.

lenny vee
08-06-2018, 07:16 AM
I hav two solar tubes installed by Solar Guys. I highly recommend them. Fast response, good work. they work great.

cwhitecat
08-06-2018, 08:07 AM
The Solar Guys are excellent. I highly recommend them. They are fast, efficient and leave your place clean. I chose them because they were recommended by several of my neighbors and their prices are reasonable. Love my solar tubes. Have had them for two years with no problems. Had one installed in walk in closet. No problems with clothes fading. The tube is in the center so the clothes don’t get direct sunlight. I think the way the tubes are made you don’t get the effect of direct sunlight anyhow. I can look directly up through mine and do not get blinded when my room is brightly lit by the solar light.

Mstpac22
08-06-2018, 08:15 AM
Solar guys did ours and did a great job. We had the solar night lights installed with the so they qualified for a tax credit. We also have a gardenia and have one in the Master bath. It has never bothered us.

sandybeachgal
08-06-2018, 08:26 AM
We also used the The Solar Guys. The company was great in all respects. LOVE the additional light! A solar tube does create a hole in your roof, however, that's why you should make sure to hire an experienced company who knows how to install a tube that is leak-free, by sealing the opening to keep out rain and moisture. Our two tubes were installed prior to hurricane Irma last year with zero leaks occurring subsequently. There are many holes made in your roof by the builder --- bathroom fans, attic vents/turbines, etc. We have had both our bathroom fan vents (installed by the builder) re-sealed on the roof because of leaks around their bases. Obviously, there are no guarantees in life, however, all the positive reviews tend to reflect that solar tube light leaks do not appear to be an inordinate problem if the installations are done properly. Hope you enjoy your tube lights as much as we do ours.

palasmith
08-06-2018, 09:24 AM
Solar guys. They installed 2 tubes in 2005 and we have had no problems.

bunnyhop
08-06-2018, 09:38 AM
A roofing contractor once told me to never, ever cut holes in your roof. We did have Solar Guys install a solar vent fan, though.

erojohn
08-06-2018, 10:03 AM
Javier one of the solar guys did ours. Install very quick. He had a mud box contraption that fit tightly to the ceiling. Did most of the cutting from above. Very little mess. No problems with new one and existing ones still water right after 10 yrs. our old one is in MB bath. It is bright in the morning but you can close the door if you want it darker in the BR

bjdewitz
08-06-2018, 10:42 AM
Opinions please!

Planning on adding two Solar Tubes in home!

There are three companies in the area here that all have different sales pitches as to why they are the BEST.

Question: Who installed yours? Why did you pick that company? How has it worked out? Problems to watch for?

Those without them need not respond!

Thanks

:welcome:
We think Solar Guys are best. They do a great job, and we like their lenses the best. We've had other tubes, and Solatube is the best. Excellent warranty too.

jgd3rd
08-06-2018, 11:12 AM
Solar Guys. I had 1 installed over the kitchen sink thinking it would provide additional light which it does. But, we are 'birds' and the light was installed during late spring with the sun up north. If you are a 'bird' place tube on a southern exposure of the house to get the most winter light benefit.

Nanny32162
08-06-2018, 12:21 PM
We used Solar Guys and have been very happy. They installed our lights in 2009 and 2012 (two different homes); neither home has had any issues with the solar tubes. Solar Guys cleaned up after installation.

joy@villagetweet.com
08-06-2018, 02:30 PM
Solar Tubes? -- I hope you don't end up hating them. I visited a friend who leased a villa with solar tubes in living room and kitchen. The effect was like having bright lights on that you can't turn off. I wouldn't have them if the paid ME to install them. Good Luck.

Fredster
08-06-2018, 02:42 PM
There were 3 solar tubes in our home when we bought it, so I don’t know who installed them.
But we really think they are great, and they have been in many years without any problems at all.
Especially nice in a windowless bath, during the day you don’t have to turn a light on at all!

JSR22
08-06-2018, 02:43 PM
We have 3 solar tubes. Kitchen, great room, and laundry room. Absolutely love the solar tubes. I like a bright sunny house. Will probably add a 4th in the masster bath. Solar Guys did an excellent installation.

Joorn59
08-06-2018, 05:34 PM
Solar Guys. Two tubes, hurricane Irma, no leaks. I love them.

JSR22
08-06-2018, 07:09 PM
LED bulbs are relatively cheap and sip wattage. Much cheaper to have a “can” installed by Lenhardt with a switch in rooms that need more light. The cost payback for light tubes can never be recouped in our lifetime left. Not a big fan of roof penetrations either.

We have LED bulbs in our house. No comparison to a solar tube. We are adding more solar tubes.

mjdollard
08-06-2018, 07:38 PM
I used Solar Lights and More. Had best price (frequent bogo deals). Quality install, never had an issue with the product. The Solar Guys salesman irritated me. BTW, don’t install in a bedroom

uprivergirl
08-06-2018, 08:56 PM
We just had Solar Guys put ours in last week. No problem with them at all. On time and no mess.