Planning a home extension is the perfect time to add more natural light and a touch of style with our bespoke rooflights. The best rooflights for a home extension will brighten your new space, improve energy levels in the home, and the overall design.
Below, we explore some top rooflight products, their features, benefits, styles, ease of installation, and starting prices. Each is explained to help you find the ideal fit for your extension.
Rooflights
Flat rooflights
What is the product?
Flat rooflights are minimalistic, frameless glass panels installed flat (or on a slight pitch) on your extension’s roof. It’s essentially a fixed flat glass window for the roof, designed to maximise daylight in the room below. The design is sleek and contemporary. The glass lies almost flush with the roof surface, so from outside it has a low profile.
Features and benefits
Flat rooflights let in abundant natural light, and can bring in up to twice as much light as vertical windows, instantly transforming a dark extension into a space. The all-glass design provides unobstructed sky views, making the room feel more open and connected to the outdoors.
Why is it good for a home extension?
A flat rooflight is perfect for single-story extensions or rooms with flat roofs because it floods the new space with light without altering the roofline. Unlike a pitched roof window or dormer, a flat skylight doesn’t protrude much above the roof, preserving a clean exterior look. This low-profile appearance is often favoured in modern extensions or when planning permission limits changes to the roof silhouette. Inside, the extra daylight makes the extension feel larger and more welcoming, a big plus for kitchens, living rooms, or any space you’re expanding.
What style is the product, and what style home does it suit?
Thanks to their design, flat rooflights have a very modern aesthetic. They typically feature clear glass with a subtle border and sit level with the roof surface. This minimalist look suits contemporary architecture and extensions with a modern or minimalist design theme. However, flat rooflights can complement virtually any home style, even traditional homes, because they are quite discreet.
How easy is it to install?
Flat roof skylights are designed to be relatively straightforward to install for a professional. They are typically made to sit on a wooden kerb or upstand built onto your flat roof. Builders or roofers simply waterproof the upstand and then secure the rooflight on top. Toughened Glass Systems’ flat rooflights come with an “easy fit” design – they can be installed by any competent builder/roofer following the provided step-by-step guide.
What do prices start at?
One advantage of flat rooflights is their affordability relative to more elaborate glazing. Prices will vary with size and specifications, but basic small flat rooflights start from around £285.60 (including VAT) for Toughened Glass Systems’ models. This entry-level price would be for the smallest standard size with double glazing and clear glass. Larger sizes or added options (like tints, coatings, or triple glazing) will increase the cost.
Triple-glazed rooflights
What is the product?
Triple-glazed rooflights are basically flat roof windows with three layers of glass instead of the usual two. Between the panes, there’s insulating gas, and the glass often comes with a self-cleaning coating. So, not only do you get extra insulation, your rooflight pretty much looks after itself.
Features and benefits
The real star here is the triple glazing. Three panes of glass, spaced out with argon gas, mean you get way better insulation than with standard double glazing. Less heat escapes, so your space stays warmer in winter and cooler when it’s hot out.
That helps keep your energy bills in check. The extra layer also blocks out more noise, which is a lifesaver if you live somewhere with a lot of traffic or general chaos outside.
Why is it good for a home extension?
If you’re adding an extension and want the best comfort, triple-glazed rooflights are the way to go. Extensions usually have big glass areas, so better insulation really matters. Triple glazing helps meet strict energy standards and keeps the place cosy, even when it’s freezing outside.
The space feels comfortable all year, and you’re not stuck cranking the heat up just to use the room in winter.
What style is the product, and what style home does it suit?
The look is modern and minimal: flat glass with a black border, no bulky frame in sight.
That makes it perfect for contemporary homes or new builds where you want clean lines and high performance. It just fits right in with modern extensions or eco-friendly projects.
How easy is it to install?
Getting this feature up on your roof is straightforward. It comes pre-made and sealed, ready to slot into the opening your builder’s prepared.
Installation is simple; just fit it onto the insulated upstand on your flat roof. You can get clear instructions and support if needed, so there’s no guesswork.
What do prices start at?
Triple-glazed rooflights are pricier than double-glazed ones, but they’re still within reach. At Toughened Glass Systems, the smallest size with self-cleaning glass starts at about £195.60 (including VAT). Not bad for the extra comfort and energy savings you get.
Circular rooflights
What is the product?
A circular rooflight is a round skylight for your roof, a circular window instead of the usual square or rectangle. These are made for flat or low-pitch roofs and usually come as a complete unit with the frame already built in. The circular shape instantly grabs attention and adds something special to the ceiling of your extension.
Features and benefits
The main thing that stands out here is the shape. Architects and homeowners pick round rooflights because they’re different and add some personality. They let in just as much daylight as any other skylight, but the round design spreads the light evenly throughout the room, so you get a bright, open feel.
Why is it good for a home extension?
Picture your sunlight streaming through a round opening, casting unique patterns below. This works especially well in places like dining rooms, home offices, or entrances, where you want something a bit bold.
What style is the product, and what style home does it suit?
This is a modern, almost futuristic look. A circular rooflight brings a clean, contemporary vibe that fits right in with minimalist or modern homes, new builds, or any extension with a flat roof.
How easy is it to install?
Fitting a circular rooflight is a little different from a standard rectangular one, but not complicated. Most come in set diameters (like 600mm, 900mm, 1200mm, or 1500mm), so you just need to cut a matching round opening or have an upstand ready.
What do prices start at?
Because of the shape and the way they’re made, circular rooflights cost a bit more than standard flat ones. Prices start at about £977.13 (including VAT) for the smallest size at 600mm across.
Framed flat skylights
What is the product?
A framed flat skylight is a flat rooflight with a slim aluminium frame running around the glass. So, unlike the totally frameless versions, you’ll actually see a neat border. The frame sits right on top of the upstand and keeps the glass secure.
Features and benefits
The design packs in a few real perks. The aluminium frame isn’t just for looks; it’s thermally broken, which means there’s an insulating barrier inside that stops heat escaping through the metal. That helps keep the whole unit energy-efficient.
Why is it good for a home extension?
If you’re building an extension, these framed flat skylights are a solid choice. They look good and they’re practical. The extra insulation means your new space stays warm and still meets building regulations, even if you go big with the skylight overhead.
What style is the product, and what style home does it suit?
It’s a modern style, with a touch of industrial vibe thanks to the visible aluminium. The frame is really slim, just enough to outline the skylight and give it a subtle border. If your home already has sleek window frames or strong architectural lines, this fits right in.
How easy is it to install?
Installing these rooflights is straightforward. You just need to make sure the upstand is built to the right size; order a 1000x1000mm skylight for a 1000x1000mm upstand, for instance. The recommended upstand height is usually about 150mm, with a width of 75-80mm.
What do prices start at?
Framed flat skylights cost a bit more than the most basic frameless types, since you’re getting more aluminium and better glass. Still, the price is fair for what you get. You’re looking at around £469.15 (including VAT) for the smallest size, like 600 x 600 mm.
Roof lanterns
Korniche roof lanterns
What is the product?
The Korniche roof lantern is a high-end aluminium roof lantern system, famous for its ultra-slim frames and serious strength. You usually get it as a kit that’s simple to put together on site.
Features and benefits
The Korniche stands out for its sleek, minimal look. The frame is narrow inside and out, so you get more glass and a ton of daylight. You barely notice the bars – it’s almost all sky. Don’t let the slim frame fool you, though. This thing is tough. The design is fine-tuned to make it one of the strongest lanterns on the market.
Security is also a highlight
Security’s covered, too: the Korniche meets PAS24:2020 standards. The glass is self-cleaning solar glass as standard, which is a great bonus. There’s also plenty to customise, from frame colours (grey, black, white, or any RAL shade you want) and glass tints (clear, blue, neutral), all available in self-cleaning versions. Plus, it comes with a 10-year warranty, which says a lot about the quality.
Why is it good for a home extension?
A Korniche lantern really lifts an extension. It’s got that rare mix of contemporary and classic, so it works with anything: modern glass box, traditional orangery, you name it. In a kitchen-diner, for example, putting a roof lantern over the table or island creates a showstopper. Light pours in right where you want it, making the space look bigger and more inviting. The ceiling feels higher under the lantern, so you get that airy, vaulted effect.
What style is the product, and what style home does it suit?
It’s an elegant, streamlined lantern. The lines are slim and modern, but there’s still a nod to classic lantern shapes. So, it looks great on older homes or orangeries, but the minimal frame also fits right in with a modern place.
How easy is it to install?
The Korniche roof lantern is known for its simple installation. It’s designed so that installers can assemble it quickly on site without special tools or extensive silicone sealing. The product arrives in kit form, with the aluminium rafters and ridge sections pre-cut, and a set of instructions. Many parts simply clip or bolt together with pre-fitted seals, ensuring a precise fit.
What do prices start at?
Korniche roof lanterns are competitively priced for their class. Generally, you’re looking at starting prices in the range of around £925 (inc. VAT) for the smaller sizes. For example, a small Korniche lantern (roughly 1m x 1m) would be in that ballpark. The price increases with size.
Brett Martin roof lanterns
What is the product?
Brett Martin roof lanterns are double-glazed lantern systems with a solid aluminium frame and a bit of traditional flair. You can choose how many glass panes you want so the look can swing more classic if you like. The design’s slim and the features are easy to install.
Features and benefits
These lanterns use a fully thermally broken aluminium frame, which means they keep the heat in and condensation out. The glazing is double-glazed, with a laminated inner pane for added safety, if it ever breaks, the glass won’t just fall everywhere. That’s a real bonus, especially in family homes.
Why is it good for a home extension?
Add one of these to your extension and the space instantly feels brighter, lighter, and more inviting. More natural light pours in, making the whole area feel open and connected to your garden or outside views. It changes the vibe completely.
What style is the product, and what style home does it suit?
If you go for the 4-pane version (just the ridge and a single crossbar), you get a minimalist feel with wide glass and clean lines. But if you want something more classic, the 6-pane layout (ridge plus two crossbars) gives you that Victorian conservatory look. It works for both older, character homes and newer builds.
How easy is it to install?
Installation’s pretty straightforward. Brett Martin lanterns come as a full kit with everything you need: the frame, glazing, clips, and seals. Most parts just snap or clip together, so you don’t spend ages fiddling with screws and sealant. It’s designed to make life easier for the installer.
What do prices start at?
These lanterns are actually pretty affordable for what you get. They usually start a bit higher than Korniche, mostly because even the smallest Brett Martin lantern is larger and always comes double-glazed, there’s no single-pane option. But for the size and features, you get a lot for your money.
Comparison table
To help you see the differences at a glance, here’s a quick comparison of the rooflights and roof lanterns discussed, including their key features and starting prices:
| Product | Type/Design | Key Features & Benefits |
| Flat Rooflight | Frameless flat glass skylight (fixed) | Low-profile design, floods room with natural light, highly durable and energy-efficient (double or triple-glazed). Ideal for modern extensions without altering the roofline. |
| Triple-Glazed Rooflight | Frameless flat skylight with triple glazing & self-cleaning glass | Superior insulation (3 panes + argon) for minimal heat loss, self-clean coating for low maintenance frameless modern look. Keeps extension cosy and bills low. |
| Circular Rooflight | Round flat skylight (fixed) | Unique circular shape, visually stunning feature that spreads daylight evenly, thermally broken frame prevents cold bridging, laminated safety glass. Suits contemporary designs. |
| Framed Flat Skylight | Flat skylight with slim aluminium frame | Slim, powder-coated frame with flush glass panel, laminated inner pane for extra safety, excellent U-values (as low as ~1.1 double-glazed) for thermal efficiency. |
| Korniche Roof Lantern | Pitched glass roof lantern (aluminium) | Ultra-slim frames for the most light, self-clean double glazing standard (triple available), very strong (supports heavy loads), PAS24 security-rated fast installation design. |
| Brett Martin Roof Lantern | Pitched glass roof lantern (aluminium) | Slimline frame with 4-pane or 6-pane configuration for modern or classic look, laminated double-glazing for safety, clip-on assembly for quick install, high thermal performance and no visible fixings for a clean finish. |
So what rooflight should I pick for my home extension?
The flat rooflight is a fantastic all-rounder for those after a fresh look and great value. For extra insulation or low-maintenance glass, step up to a triple-glazed flat rooflight, which brings superior thermal performance and self-clean convenience without losing that appeal.
If you’d like your extension to stand out, a circular rooflight offers real architectural impact. The round design instantly bolsters the space and brings in soft, even light, ideal if you want something a little more special.
For something modern but a little more defined, a framed flat skylight adds subtle structure and detailing. Available in a range of options, such as privacy or tinted glass, with improved safety features, it’s a strong choice for high-spec extensions.
For more information, contact our team today. We’d be happy to help.
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