Rooflights FAQs

A roof window is typically called a:

• Rooflight
• Skylight

A rooflight is a glazed unit installed in a flat or pitched (sloping) roof to bring natural light into a room below. In the UK, “rooflight” is generally the preferred term, particularly for flat roof systems.

Rooflights are available in fixed, opening, electric, walk-on, and lantern styles.

A skylight is a glazed window installed in a roof to allow natural light to enter a building from above. The term is often used interchangeably with “rooflight” and “roof window”, although there are technically subtle differences depending on design and function.

Skylights can be fixed (non-opening) or opening for ventilation, and are commonly used in extensions, kitchens, loft conversions, and orangeries to increase daylight and improve the sense of space.

Both describe glazed units fitted into roofs to increase natural daylight.

A roof lantern is a raised glazed structure installed on a flat roof. It typically features multiple glass panels supported by a frame and sits above roof level to maximise light entry.

Roof lanterns are popular in kitchen extensions and orangeries because they:

• Increase natural light
• Add architectural interest
• Create a feeling of height and space

Yes, some roof lanterns can incorporate opening vents for ventilation. These may be manual or electrically operated.

If ventilation is important for your project, check product specifications to ensure opening options are available.

Take a look at our blog Opening vs Non-Opening Skylights: Differences, Pros & Cons for a deep dive on the topic.

Toughened glass is heat-treated to increase its strength. It’s significantly stronger than standard glass and, if broken, shatters into small blunt fragments rather than sharp shards.

This makes it suitable for home and commercial roof applications where safety is an incredibly important factor.

Check out our blog post Toughened Glass Vs Laminated Glass for more helpful info.

Double glazing uses two panes of glass with a sealed gap between them, usually filled with argon gas for insulation.

Triple glazing uses three panes with two sealed gaps, offering:

• Improved thermal performance
• Better sound insulation
• Higher energy efficiency

Triple-glazing is typically more expensive, but can more effectively reduce heat loss.

Consult our handy guide that explores all the key differences: Triple Glazing vs Double Glazing.

Roof lanterns are available with various glazing options, including:

• Double or triple-glazing
• Solar control glass
• Self-cleaning glass
• Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass
• Laminated or toughened safety glass

The best option depends on your property’s orientation, insulation goals, and budget.

Self-cleaning glass has a special coating that helps break down organic dirt when exposed to sunlight and allows rainwater to rinse it away. This reduces the need for manual cleaning and keeps rooflights, skylights, and roof lanterns looking clear and bright.

Many of our products are sold with self-cleaning glass features.

When pricing up your rooflight project, the cost of a rooflight will depend on:

• Size (including whether you require a bespoke size)
• Glazing specification (double or triple)
• Glass type (solar control, laminated, self-cleaning)
• Frame material

Basic fixed rooflights start from lower price points, while larger bespoke or triple-glazed units cost more. For accurate pricing, dimensions and specification details are required.

View our buyer’s guide to rooflight prices for 2026.

Rooflight installation costs vary depending on:

• Roof type (flat or pitched)
• Structural alterations required
• Size of the unit
• Labour rates in your area
• Access to your roof (scaffolding costs)

While we supply high-quality rooflights and materials, installation should be carried out by a qualified, recommended builder or roofing contractor who can provide a detailed quotation.

Take a look at our post on Roof Window Installation Cost for more info.

In the UK, rooflights are typically installed by:

• Roofers and roofing contractors
• Builders
• Specialist glazing installers

We recommend using experienced professionals familiar with rooflight installation and building regulations compliance. You should ask to see photos and videos of previous installs – any reputable fitter will have plenty of these to show off!

In many cases, rooflights fall under permitted development, which means no planning permission is required. However, planning permission may be required for:

• Listed buildings
• Conservation areas
• Significant structural alterations

Always check with your local planning authority before starting work.

Most modern roof lanterns use self-cleaning glass, specially coated to use sunlight to break down dirt.

But for general cleaning:

• Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth
• Avoid abrasive cleaners
• Clean on a cool day to prevent streaking

Access and safety should always be carefully considered when cleaning roof-level glazing – if you’re worried about working at height, call a professional.

Yes, all modern rooflights are designed with energy efficiency in mind. High-performance glazing and insulated frames help reduce heat loss while maximising daylight.

Upgrading to triple glazing can significantly impact thermal performance, too.

We’ve written a blog post on energy efficiency if you’re eager to know a bit more.

If you’ve ever heard homeowners complain that their conservatory is too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer, you might worry about rooflights causing a similar issue.

However, while rooflights will improve your room’s ‘solar heat gain’, room temperature can easily be controlled with:

• Solar control glass (coated to reduce overheating)
• Proper ventilation
• Blinds or shading systems

You might be considering replacing your existing rooflight if you’re encountering issues like leaks, draughts or ageing units.

Choosing the right replacement (size, glazing, opening type) and factoring in both product and labour costs can be a bit overwhelming – luckily, we’ve written a guide to replacing rooflights.

When choosing a rooflight, you should consider:

• Roof type (flat or pitched)
• Fixed or opening
• Ventilation options
• Glazing performance
• Budget

Providing dimensions and project details allows for more accurate product selection.

Rooflights are available in standard sizes as well as made-to-measure options, depending on the system. Always measure the structural opening carefully before ordering.

High-quality aluminium and glazed rooflights are designed for long-term durability. With correct installation and maintenance, they can last for decades.

Check out our blog post How Long Do Rooflights Last for a bit more info.

We’re not just another faceless online business – we’re a family-run team of experts in Harrow (North London) who’ve been in the trade for over a decade. We’re genuinely passionate about what we do!

With a Google Review score of 4.9 from over 350 customer reviews, we’re proud to have been serving our new and repeat customers since 2016.

We don’t offer installation services, but we’re trusted suppliers to hundreds of experts who do.

We deliver nationwide, and can help you choose a local fitter when you order. Get in touch with our helpful team today.

We do! Many of our customers choose to go bespoke in order to get a product that perfectly suits their space. Get in touch with the team today to discuss bespoke sizes, we’ve done and seen it all before so you’re in good hands.

Many of our products come with a manufacturer’s warranty. View specific product pages for this information.

Yes, we deliver all across the UK. Because glass requires careful handling, we use specialist logistics partners and our own fleet to ensure your order arrives safely. Delivery times vary depending on whether you are ordering a stock item (usually delivered in a few days) or a bespoke custom piece, which can take a little longer.

Yes, you can. Check out our gallery for some of our recent customer installs.