How To Measure For A New Roof Lantern

Roof lanterns can make a fantastic addition to your property, adding light and a sense of airiness to what would otherwise be dark rooms. However, before you can buy a roof lantern, you need to find out which roof lanterns will fit on your roof.

To do that, you need to learn how to accurately measure for a roof lantern, and this guide is here to help you do just that.

Do You Already Have an Upstand?

There are two ways to measure for a new roof lantern, and which one is right for you will depend on if you already have an upstand fitted. An upstand is the base for a rooflight, which lifts the glass part of your rooflight or roof lantern off your roof, allowing water to drain properly. They are also commonly known as kerbs.

Please note that whether you have an upstand or not, you will need to measure the exterior sides of the upstand or where you’re expecting to put the roof lantern. Do not measure the interior of the upstand/location.

Measuring with an Upstand

To begin, you’ll need to measure the upstand itself. You should measure its length and width, including the roofing membrane, if present.

Once you have these measurements, your roof lantern specifications will inform you of the correct overhang you should add to the width and length figures, thus allowing water to run off properly.

You should now have the measurements for your roof lantern.

Measuring Without an Upstand

If you don’t have an upstand ready to go, you’ll need to measure for a roof opening. Take a tape measure and measure width and length of the proposed opening. Ensure that there are no obstructions or other issues with the area of your roof where you’re going to install the roof lantern.

Now that you have this, you will need to figure out the size of the upstand for your roof lantern. When you have that, you can work out your roof lantern’s size following the instructions laid out in your roof lantern specification, as each feature will be different.

What We’ve Learned

We hope that you’ve found this article helpful and now know how to measure for a new roof lantern! While it’s especially easy if you have an upstand installed, it isn’t too much harder to measure for a new roof lantern from scratch. It’s just a matter of using a formula – if you have any questions about how to measure for your roof lantern, or want other advice, contact us today.

What Roof Lanterns Do We Sell?

We sell a range of roof lanterns, including:

We also stock an impressive range of rooflights and skylights, including:

More helpful blogs

Measuring for a Roof Lantern FAQs

Can a Roof Lantern Be Too Big?

If there’s enough space on your roof, without any obstacles, you can fit roof lanterns ranging from large to small. Ultimately, you are the only one able to judge what size roof lantern is in keeping with your home’s design and decor.

What Is the Minimum Size of an Upstand?

The recommended size of an upstand will, ultimately, depend on your roof lantern.

What Is the Best Place for a Roof Lantern?

If you’re looking to add natural warmth through sunlight, a south-facing roof lantern is ideal. If it faces north, you will receive constant light without it getting too hot. East and west-facing lanterns are better for morning and afternoon light, respectively.

Excellent

Based on 210 reviews

Bob toploft

2020-10-24

I am the owner of Top loft company ltd, after reviewing reviews from various companies I ordered 2 juliet balconies from tgs arrived within 3 weeks, comunications and help was brilliant. Thanks for all your help.

Jim H

2020-10-23

Great service from the team. Easy to order, good buying guidance and clear install instructions for my builder. Rooflights look absolutely great! The team at TGS couldn't have been more helpful in organising a smaller delivery vehicle to help with restricted access. Highly recommend TGS.

Jack Smith

2020-10-16

Great service from a very knowledgeable company. Thanks team Toughened Glass Systems.

Paul Smith

2020-10-16

I was spending a lot of money on several rooflights so I wanted to make sure I got it right and I did. The professionalism, expertise and the quality of the roof lanterns really set Toughened Glass Systems apart.

Tyrone Eldridge

2020-10-16

There are no complaints about the experience with TGS. The entire process of ordering, supplying and delivering was flawless. I would really recommend you order your flat roof sky lanterns from these guys.

Robert Childers

2020-10-16

Best place for rooflights, they supply many different types and options. Thanks for all your support Toughened Glass Systems!

John Smith

2020-10-16

The glass balustrade gives us an amazing view onto the lake outside. So happy we ended up going for the frameless glass balcony from Toughened Glass Systems instead of one with posts

Louise Newsome

2020-10-15

My job is to design the interiors for a lot of houses and a lot of times the hardest part was when the client wanted some really inexpensive rooflights that should look like some contemporary ones as well. That until I found Toughened Glass Systems and started working with them more and more. They have a lot of this kind of stuff at a very decent price, a price for anyone I can say. If you’re looking for cheap skylights for flat roofs or any types of roof lights, they probably have something for you.