Roof lanterns and rooflights are becoming more and more popular with homeowners who want to add more natural light into their homes. But if you're looking to install a new roof lantern or rooflight, which is the best option for your home? This blog will look at the advantages and disadvantages of both to help you make the right choice.
Understanding Roof Lanterns and Rooflights
What is a Roof Lanterns
A roof lantern, or lantern roof as it's sometimes called, is a glass structure that sits on a normally flat roof. These 3-dimensional creations open the ceiling to the sky to let in the maximum amount of natural light.
What is a Rooflight?
A rooflight is a flat window set within a roof. They can be installed on both pitched and flat roofs.
Key Differences Between Roof Lanterns and Rooflights
There are several key differences between a roof lantern and a rooflight, particularly when it comes to design, light and space enhancement.
Design and Aesthetics
In terms of design and finished aesthetic, a roof lantern makes a bold architectural statement, creating an eye-catching focal point. Being three dimensional, a roof lantern will transform the aesthetic of your home both internally and externally. A rooflight offers a more discreet way to add light to your home. Being flat they blend seamlessly into a roof and are ideal if you do not want to change the external aesthetic of your home.
Light and Space Enhancement
Roof lanterns are specifically designed to capture light from multiple angles, before dispersing this light throughout a room. In turn this creates the illusion of space and openness. By contrast, a rooflight offers more targeted natural light, enabling you to illuminate specific areas of your home.
Pros and Cons of Roof Lanterns and Rooflights
So what are the pros and cons of roof lanterns and rooflights? We've explored both to help you decide which solution is best for you and your home.
Pros of Roof Lanterns
- They create a truly stunning architectural focal point
- They significantly increase natural light in a home
- They raise the roof height, creating a greater sense of space
- Roof lanterns are perfect for large spaces
- They are available in a wide variety of styles and colours, allowing you to create a finish which is as unique as your home.
Cons of Roof Lanterns
- Roof lanterns are the most expensive option
- Due to their size and complexity, they are more complicated - and therefore expensive - to install
- Maintenance can be tricky due to the size and height of a roof lantern. As such, it will most likely require professional maintenance, which again, is an additional cost.
Pros of Rooflights
- Compared to roof lanterns, rooflights are a more cost-effective choice
- Rooflights are extremely flexible and can be fitted into flat and pitched roofs
- They are far simpler to install than roof lanterns, which will save you both time and money
- As they lay flat in a roof, rooflights are less visible from the outside, creating a seamless external finish
- Rooflights allow you to target specific areas which do not receive much, or any, natural light.
Cons of Rooflights
- Rooflights do not offer the same striking aesthetic as a roof lantern
- They are far smaller than roof lanterns which will impact the amount of natural light that enters a room
- As with roof lanterns, rooflights can still be tricky to clean and maintain.
Installation and Maintenance Considerations
With any home renovation, installation and future maintenance are key considerations. So what factors should you consider with roof lanterns and rooflights?
Roof Lantern Installation
The installation of roof lanterns can be complex. Their multifaceted design means they must be fitted accurately, and if they are particularly large additional equipment, such as a crane may be needed. As such, it is advisable to employ the services of a professional installer.
Rooflight Installation
Rooflights are less invasive and require less building work than a roof lantern, as they can be installed into existing roofs. However, we would still recommend seeking the help of a skilled professional to ensure a correct and accurate installation.
Long-Term Maintenance
Both roof lanterns and rooflights require regular maintenance to keep them free of debris and dirt, and allow the maximum amount of natural light in. Being bigger, roof lantern maintenance will take more time and effort. Rooflights on a ground floor installation will be easier to clean. However, you will need to invest in a sturdy ladder and the help of a friend, family member, or neighbour to help you reach.
Planning Permission for Roof Lanterns and Rooflights
The installation of most roof lantern and rooflights will fall under permitted development rights, which means you do not need to seek planning permission. However, there may be some situations when planning permission is required.
When You Might Need Planning Permission
- If you're home is listed or you live in a conservation area or area of outstanding natural beauty, you may face tighter restrictions when it comes to installing a new roof lantern or rooflight.
- If you're rooflights or roof lantern overlooks a neighbouring property.
- If you're roof lantern is higher than an existing roof level.
- Larger, more prominent roof lanterns may also require planning permission.
- However, when it comes to planning permission, we would always recommend consulting a professional. This will ensure that there are no hiccups further down the road.
Which Is Right for Your Project?
So which option is best for you?
Best for Larger Spaces and Dramatic Designs
Roof lanterns are ideally suited to larger spaces, adding drama, design, and large amounts of natural light.
Best for Smaller Spaces and Simple Installations
Rooflights are perfect for smaller spaces and areas which will benefit from targeted natural light. They are also ideal for those on a budget, as they are a more cost-effective way of adding style and light to your home.
Conclusion - Roof Lantern or Rooflight?
Whether you choose a roof lantern or rooflight will depend on several factors mentioned above. The size of space, your budget, and the final aesthetic you want to achieve will all influence your decision.
If you’re still undecided and have further questions, call our friendly team today on 0800 22 77 77 who will be able to offer guidance and help.
