Longevity of Kalwall Translucent Panel Skylights: Proven Performance, Designed for Decades

We’re often asked why Kalwall translucent panel skylights last so long and why many installations—like the ones featured here—are still looking great after many years in the field.

Thanks to technologies introduced in the early 2000s, these skylights resist yellowing, weathering, and surface breakdown far longer than earlier designs. This advanced engineering ensures that your building benefits from natural daylight for decades, with minimal maintenance.

Why Kalwall Skylights Last Decades

Innovative Material Technologies: Kalwall’s advanced UV-stable face sheets and proprietary weatherable coatings introduced in the early 2000s protect panels from yellowing, chalking, and surface wear.

Durable Panel Construction: The unique composite sandwich structure maintains structural integrity and thermal performance year after year.

Low Maintenance: Panels resist dirt & pollution build-up, maintaining their appearance with minimal cleaning.

Why “Replacement” Doesn’t Equal “Failure”

Kalwall panels typically remain functional for 40 years or more, and when they’re eventually replaced, it’s not due to failure—it’s part of a building’s normal life cycle.

Translucent panels: After 40+ years, panels are typically replaced for aesthetic updates or energy efficiency upgrades, rather than due to structural failures.



Roofing systems: Commercial roofs are often replaced after 20 years, yet no one considers this a sign of failure—just good facility management.

Why Daylight Modeling Matters



Precision Planning: Before construction begins, daylight modeling enables architects and owners to visualize and quantify how natural light will flow through interior spaces throughout the day and seasons.

Energy Efficiency: Modeling identifies the most effective daylighting strategies to reduce reliance on artificial lighting, cutting long-term energy costs.

Code Compliance & Certifications: Many sustainable building standards (like LEED and Minnesota B3) award credits for daylighting performance. Modeling helps optimize designs for compliance and certification.

Comfort & Productivity: Properly modeled daylighting reduces glare, balances light distribution, and creates more comfortable environments for occupants.

From evaluating existing Kalwall skylights to optimizing new designs through daylight modeling, we combine decades of field experience with advanced design tools to help you maximize the benefits of your daylighting investment.

Let us help you bring smarter, longer-lasting daylight to your next project.