Skylights are either plastic or glass, and which one you choose
depends on several factors.  Peter Anderson/Getty Images
Skylight Materials  ­Skylights typically are constructed with
either plastic or glass, and the choice you make depends on
several factors, including climate, location within the home and
pricing. Manufacturers refer to types of skylights by their
glazing, a general term used to describe how a skylight or
window is constructed.  Plastic glazing for skylights is less
expensive than glass glazing and yet it's still fairly durable.
Plastic is more susceptible to wear, however, and will scratch,
discolor or warp easily. And unless the plastic is coated with a
special film, these kinds of glazes let in dangerous ultraviolet
(UV) rays from the sun, which can harm people's skin and fade
furniture, too. If you've ever seen dome- or bubble-shaped
skylights in someone's home, chances are those skylights are
­plastic.Generally that design is considered out of style now.
Glass glazing for skylights is