Rooflights, Skylights & Roof Windows

In everyday UK usage the three terms are largely interchangeable. Technically, a roof window sits in the same plane as the surrounding roof, as defined by BS EN 14351-1, while rooflights and skylights are broader terms covering flat, domed, and lantern designs mounted on an upstand. Some people also know them as ceiling skylights.

Usually not. Most installations fall under permitted development, since fitting a rooflight involves changes to the roof structure but not usually a full extension. It’s still worth checking your specific circumstances before ordering. See our complete guide to building regulations and planning permission for rooflights.

It depends on your roof’s pitch. If your roof is flat or near-flat (0° to 15°), you’ll want our Skylights for Flat Roofs range. For a sloped roof, browse Pitched Roof Skylight Windows instead. The two aren’t interchangeable, since flat roof units are built to shed water off a much shallower pitch.

Prices vary widely by type, size, and glazing, from budget fixed units to large made-to-measure lanterns. Our complete cost guide breaks down what drives the price up or down, and every product page on this site lists real prices rather than a “request a quote” figure.

Yes. Browse our Opening Skylights range for manual and electric options, or Ventilated Skylights if airflow is your main priority. These matter most in kitchens and bathrooms prone to condensation.

Glass gives better optical clarity and won’t discolour over time, while polycarbonate domes cost less and offer strong impact resistance. Browse Dome Rooflights and Polycarbonate Rooflights for the polycarbonate range, or Skylights for Flat Roofs for flat glass.

Yes. See our Smoke Vents & Access Hatch Rooflights range, which covers both roof access hatches and AOV smoke ventilation units for commercial and residential buildings.

Yes. Most ranges can be made to your exact opening size rather than a fixed standard. See our Custom Rooflights range for details, or contact our team with your measurements for a quote.

A well-positioned rooflight can add value by improving natural light and the perceived size of a room, particularly in loft conversions and kitchen extensions. Our guide on whether a rooflight adds value to your home covers this in more depth.

Roof pitch, upstand height, room orientation, and whether you need ventilation are the main factors. Our guide on considerations before buying a rooflight walks through the full checklist before you order.

Yes. Rooflights and roof windows are designed to be installed on almost any roof type without needing a full roof replacement, provided the upstand or opening is correctly sized.

Yes. We stock ranges tailored to common applications, including kitchen skylights, bathroom skylights, bedroom skylights, living room skylights, and conservatory rooflights.