Products > Square-Flex > Frequently Asked Questions

   

How do SQUARE-FLEX Skylight Tubes
compare to round tubular skylights?

Very well!  See for yourself!

Features and Benefits SQUARE-FLEX Solatube® The Sun Tunnel®
Shape: Round Yes Yes Yes
Shape: Square Yes No No
Shape: Rectangular Yes No No
Size Options Standard & Custom Standard Standard
Relative Aperture 127% 100% 100%
Design Versatility Unlimited Limited Limited
Installation Versatility High Limited Average
Maximum Length* 10 Feet ? (n/a) 7 Feet
Product Warranty 10 Years 10 Years 7 Years
Maximum Length: These are comparative installation lengths for providing the same amount of light from same-size tubes. SQUARE-FLEX Tubing can be extended longer than equivalent size round tubes because of the construction, larger aperture of the SQUARE-FLEX skylight tube, and installation ease and flexibility
Solatube® is a registered Trademark of Solatube International, Inc.
The Sun Tunnel® is a registered trademark of Sun Tunnel Skylights

Why should I select SQUARE-FLEX?
Because it provides several dramatic advantages over conventional skylights including:

  • Increased light
  • Installation flexibility
  • Unlimited design
  • Reduced cost

Why does it generate more light than a round tube?
Because within the same diameter tube, a square shaft will provide 27% more opening space compared to a round shaft, and hence you have 27% more passage of daylight.

Since it gives more light, does it cost more,?
In most applications it will cost dramatically less, while in every case provide more light compared to conventional round skylight tubes.

Can I get a 10" round?
We can provide any size you want, however due to attic construction and building codes, the most popular standard sizes are the 14" and 22" dimensions. For the same price, our customers can enjoy a 14" square tube instead of a smaller 10" round tube, such as Solatube.

How do you know that you get more light with a square unit than a round?
Because square shaft openings are approximately 27% larger than equal size diameter round shaft openings. For example, a 14" round tube will have an aperture (opening) of 154 square inches; but a 14" square tube provides a 196" square inch aperture.

Can an electric light be installed with the Square-Flex tube?
Yes, an electric light can be installed with your tube or outside your tube. 

Can a vent be installed with the Square-Flex tube? 
We suggest an operable skylight instead of a  vent. You will get the fresh air flow with an operable skylight.   It is our recommendation that a solar powered motor be installed to open your skylight for maximum convenience.

Who installs these units?
We have a number of qualified installers and will have a  growing number of dealer/installers that can have these installed  for you. We cam also provide instructions and advice for do-it-yourselfers.

How long has the Square-Flex Tube been on the market?
It has been available in many California areas and counties since 1999.

How come I haven't seen any advertisements for the Square-Flex Tube?  I have seen quite a bit on the round tubes.
This is a relatively new product and has not yet been introduced to every area of possible distribution.  However, we are growing rapidly!

Are they easy to install?
Yes!  Flexible Square-Flex tubing material make them very versatile and well suited for a variety of situations.  Our tubing material is also available in bulk rolls for custom design and installation applications. 

How long does it take to install?
Standard sizes typically are installed in about 2 hours depending on location, attic height and layout of ceiling, etc.  It typically takes less time to install a Square-Flex skylight compared to conventional round and ridged skylight tubing system.

Can it be installed anywhere in the home?
Yes, the Square-Flex tube can be installed anywhere that ordinary conventional tubes can be installed and almost anywhere else that conventional round tubes won't work or fit!

What sizes do you offer?
SQUARE-FLEX tubes are available in 14" x 14", 14" x 46" for easy layout in between rafters, 22" x 22", and 22 x 46. Custom sizes are also available.

What Shapes are available?
SQUARE-FLEX Skylight Tube  installations can be square, rectangular, or  round.  Beyond personal preference,  there aren't many advantages to round installations.

Do you offer the round tubes?
We offer our tubing system in any size or shape you want.  including round.  However, the round shape is not our most popular selling item, but we can offer it on a custom basis at no extra cost.

What type of warranty do you offer?
We provide a lifetime warranty on all Square-Flex skylight domes, and a 10 year warranty on the tube and all parts.

What does your tube look like once installed?
It is mounted flush on your ceiling with a choice of two different panels.  For a decorative touch your tube can also be recessed. This is recommended  only on sizes above the 14"x14".

What ceiling panels are available?

  • The Obscure Panel is transparent and produces maximum light output.
  • The Diffuser Panel is opaque and reduces light output for situations where there is too much light. 

What do people think of the SQUARE-FLEX TUBE?
Find out what people are saying.

How can I find out more about SQUARE-FLEX?
Contact us today

 

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