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:

You can get more ideas for your lantern roof extension in our useful guide.

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

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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.