Established
1987
Franchise Units
3
Minimum Investment
$100,000
Franchise Fee
$25,000
Total Investment Range
$200,000
Home Based
No
Description
Solatube Home is a highly respected and established franchise opportunity in the home improvement and energy-efficiency sector. Widely recognized for pioneering tubular daylighting systems, the brand has built a strong reputation around natural lighting solutions, ventilation products, and sustainable home upgrades designed for modern homeowners.
As energy costs continue to rise and homeowners place greater value on healthier, brighter, and more efficient living spaces, Solatube Home sits at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and premium home services. Its proprietary daylighting systems capture sunlight from rooftops and deliver it into interior spaces, reducing dependence on artificial lighting while enhancing comfort and property value.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Solatube Home offers franchise investors entry into a recession-resistant, essential home services category with long-term growth potential.
Key investment highlights include:
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Operates in the fast-growing home improvement and energy-efficiency industry
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Proprietary, patented daylighting and ventilation technology
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Strong national brand recognition and consumer confidence
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Service-based model with lower overhead than retail franchises
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Multiple revenue streams from installations and upgrades
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Consistent demand driven by home renovation and energy savings
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Scalable territory structure with residential and light commercial clients
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Suitable for owner-operators or semi-absentee investors
Background
Established Year:
Solatube was founded in 1987, introducing a revolutionary approach to natural daylighting that reshaped how interior spaces are illuminated.
Founders:
The company was founded by Bob Westfall, whose vision was to create a daylighting solution that combined efficiency, performance, and architectural appeal.
Brand Journey and Company History:
What began as a single innovative product quickly evolved into a global brand. Solatube’s daylighting systems gained popularity due to their durability, performance, and patented design. Over time, the brand expanded into ventilation and indoor air quality solutions, strengthening its position as a comprehensive home comfort provider.
The franchise model was developed to allow local entrepreneurs to deliver Solatube solutions while maintaining strict quality standards, consistent branding, and professional service delivery.
Ownership and Market Presence:
Solatube operates through a network of authorized franchise and dealer territories throughout the United States, with additional international reach. The brand is well known among homeowners, builders, and architects.
Franchise Active Units: 3
Industry Category:
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Home Improvement Franchise
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Energy-Efficiency and Green Building Solutions
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Daylighting and Ventilation Services
Support Training
Solatube Home provides comprehensive support designed to help franchisees launch confidently and grow efficiently.
Pre-Launch Support:
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Territory selection and market evaluation
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Business planning and startup guidance
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Equipment, inventory, and supplier setup
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Licensing, insurance, and operational readiness assistance
Initial Training:
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Product knowledge and installation training
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Sales consultation and in-home presentation techniques
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Estimating, quoting, and pricing strategies
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Customer service standards and safety protocols
Operational Support:
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Proven systems and operating procedures
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Scheduling and project management guidance
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Ongoing technical training and product updates
Marketing Support:
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National brand marketing initiatives
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Local marketing strategy guidance
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Website and digital presence support
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Sales materials, brochures, and promotional tools
Ongoing Support:
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Dedicated franchise support team
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Continuous education and refresher programs
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New product launches and system enhancements
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Peer collaboration within the franchise network
Ideal Candidate
The Solatube Home franchise is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking a service-based business with strong margins and long-term relevance.
Ideal candidates typically have:
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Interest in home improvement, sustainability, or energy efficiency
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Sales, construction, contracting, or service business experience
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Comfort with consultative, in-home selling
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Leadership skills to manage installers or subcontractors
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Commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction
Investment Capability:
Franchisees should have adequate liquidity to cover startup costs, marketing, and working capital during the initial growth phase.
Location Preference:
Territories perform best in suburban and residentially dense markets with active home renovation demand.
Financial Detail
| Financial Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $50,000+ |
| Territory Type | Protected / Exclusive |
| Equipment & Tools | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Vehicle (Branded Van/Truck) | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Materials | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Marketing & Launch Advertising | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Royalty Fee | Percentage of Gross Revenue |
| Marketing Fund Contribution | System-level contribution may apply |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 12 – 24 Months |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Daylighting Systems, Ventilation Solutions, Residential & Light Commercial Installations |
