Category: News
Roof lanterns make a stylish addition to any home, allowing natural light to flood in and creating a feeling of spaciousness. If you’re thinking about installing a roof lantern, here’s what you need to know to get started with the process.
What is a roof lantern?
A roof lantern is a functional architectural feature that sits within a solid roof or conservatory, usually in a rectangular or polygonal shape that protrudes from the roof rather than lying flush with it. Made from timber and thermally-efficient glass, they allow natural light to flood into the room below, creating a bright, airy space as well as bringing plenty of other benefits.
What’s the difference between roof lanterns and skylights?
While both roof lanterns and skylights serve the purpose of bringing more natural light into a home, there are key differences:
> Roof lanterns have a more pronounced presence, as they protrude from the roof. Skylights, on the other hand, are flat or domed and tend to integrate seamlessly into the roof.
> Due to their three-dimensional structure and shape, roof lanterns have the ability to capture more light from different angles. It makes them more effective in illuminating larger spaces, and maximising light in north-facing rooms or during winter, when the sun is lower in the sky.
> Roof lanterns have greater architectural and decorative appeal. They are often used to enhance visual appeal and create a beautiful focal point, while skylights tend to be more functional as they lack the drama and elegance of a roof lantern.
Where can roof lanterns be installed?
Roof lanterns are best fitted into flat roofs, and are highly effective at transforming a dark room into a bright, welcoming space that feels much larger due to the extended ceiling and extra light. They are perfect for extensions, kitchens and dining areas.
Roof lanterns can sometimes be added to a gently pitched roof, with the appropriate structural support. This can add a dramatic effect to loft conversions or vaulted ceilings with a low enough pitch. It’s usually not possible to add a roof lantern to a steeply pitched roof.
What you need to know before fitting a roof lantern
> Planning permission – Generally, roof lanterns fall under permitted development rights, and do not require planning permission as long as they meet certain conditions. But it’s always important to check the rules of your local authority, especially if your home is listed or in a conservation area. The best way to be sure is to work with a professional who will take care of the necessary permissions for you.
> Structural integrity – Ensure your roof can support the additional weight of a roof lantern. Working with a trustworthy, experienced company who can assess this for you at the planning stage means you can call in a structural engineer if necessary to confirm if a roof lantern can be fitted without risking structural damage.
> Thermal efficiency – Look for roof lanterns made with thermally-efficient glass, as this will help prevent them making your room chilly in winter or overheating in summer, and instead keep your living space at a comfortable temperature all year round.
Check out all these essential tips for installing a roof lantern, and when you’re ready to get started, contact Tucker Joinery to start your journey to a more beautiful home.
