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Discover the various types of roof lanterns that can transform your living space, as we delve into their unique features and benefits in this insightful blog post.
When it comes to home design, the roof is often overlooked. But did you know that adding a roof lantern can completely transform the look and feel of your home? Not only do they bring in natural light, but they also add a touch of elegance and style.
However, with so many different types of roof lanterns available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your home. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular types of roof lanterns and their unique features to help you make an informed decision for your next home renovation project.
Single Slope Roof Lantern Flat Roof
Single Slope Roof Lanterns are a popular choice for homeowners looking to add natural light and style to their flat roof. These types of roof lanterns have a single sloping surface that allows rainwater to drain off easily, making them ideal for areas with heavy rainfall.
They also provide an excellent source of ventilation, which can help regulate the temperature inside your home during hot summer months.
One advantage of Single Slope Roof Lantern Flat Roofs is that they are easy to install and require minimal maintenance compared to other types of roofing systems. They come in various sizes and designs, allowing you the flexibility needed when choosing one that suits your specific needs.
When selecting a Single Slope Roof Lantern Flat Roof, it’s essential first to consider the size required based on your room dimensions as well as its placement on the roof. You should also choose high-quality materials such as aluminum or timber frames with double-glazed glass panes for maximum insulation benefits.
Single Slope Roof Light Inset On Tiled Roof
This type of roof light is designed for flat roofs and features a single slope, which allows natural light to flood into the room below. The inset design means that the glass sits flush with the tiled roof, creating an uninterrupted view from inside.
One advantage of this style is its versatility in terms of placement. It can be installed in various locations around your home, including over kitchen islands or dining areas where it will provide ample lighting during meal times.
When choosing this style for your home renovation project, it’s important to consider factors such as size and frame material carefully. You want to ensure that you select an appropriate size based on the dimensions and layout of your space while also selecting high-quality materials that are durable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Apex Roof Lantern for Flat Roof With Victorian Ends
This type of roof lantern features a classic design with ornate detailing on each end, reminiscent of the Victorian era.
The apex shape allows natural light to flood into your living space while creating an illusion of height and spaciousness. The intricate details on each end add character and charm to any home, making it perfect for those who want their property to stand out from the rest.
When choosing this type of roof lantern, it’s essential to consider factors such as size and frame material carefully. You’ll also need professional installation services since these types require precise measurements during fitting.
Apex Roof Lantern for Flat Roof With Gable Ends
This type of roof lantern features a pitched apex design that complements the gable end perfectly, creating an impressive focal point in any room.
The beauty of this style is that it allows natural light to flood into your living space while providing stunning views of the sky above. The pitched apex design also helps create an illusion of height, making even small rooms feel more spacious.
When choosing this type of roof lantern, it’s essential to consider factors such as size and frame material carefully. You’ll need accurate measurements so that you can select the right size for your flat roof with gable ends.
Selecting high-quality materials will ensure durability and longevity.
Apex Inline Roof Lantern for Pitched Roof
This type of roof lantern is designed to sit flush with the pitch of your existing roof, creating a seamless and elegant look. The apex inline design allows for maximum natural light to flood into your living space while maintaining privacy and insulation.
One benefit of choosing an apex inline roof lantern is that it can be customized to fit any size or shape of the pitched roof. You can choose from various frame materials such as aluminum or timber, depending on your preference and budget.
When selecting glazing options for this type of roofing solution, consider factors such as energy efficiency (U-values), solar control properties, self-cleaning glass technology among others.
Apex Inline Roof Lantern for Pitched Roof With Gable End
This type of roof lantern sits flush with the pitch of your existing roof and provides an uninterrupted view of the sky above. The apex inline design allows for maximum natural light to enter your living space, making it feel brighter and more spacious.
One advantage of choosing this type of roof lantern is that it can be customized to fit any size or shape required for your specific project. They are available in various materials such as aluminum or timber frames which can be powder-coated in different colors depending on personal preference.
When selecting glazing options for an apex inline roof lantern, consider using self-cleaning glass which reduces maintenance requirements significantly while also providing excellent thermal insulation properties.
What Is a Roof Lantern?
It consists of an elevated structure with glass panels, which allows natural light to flood into the room below. Roof lanterns have been around for centuries and were originally used in grand buildings such as palaces and churches to create an impressive visual effect while illuminating large spaces.
Today, roof lanterns are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes due to their ability to add style, elegance and natural light into any living space. They come in various shapes and sizes, from simple rectangular designs to more complex geometric shapes like pyramids or octagons.
Roof lanterns can be made from different materials including timber frames with double-glazed units or aluminium frames with triple-glazed units for better insulation properties. The glazing options include clear glass for maximum daylight penetration or tinted/reflective glass for privacy purposes.
Benefits of Roof Lanterns
One of the most significant advantages is their ability to bring in natural light, which can help reduce energy costs and create a more comfortable living space. With roof lanterns, you can enjoy the warmth and brightness of sunlight without having to rely on artificial lighting during the day.
Another benefit is that they add visual interest and style to your home’s exterior while also enhancing its interior design. Roof lanterns come in various shapes, sizes, and styles that allow you to customize them according to your preferences or match with existing architectural features.
Moreover, roof lanterns provide excellent ventilation options for homes by allowing hot air from inside out through vents at the top while drawing cool air into space below it through open windows or doors around it. This feature helps regulate temperature levels within your living spaces throughout different seasons.
Lastly but not least important are their durability features; modern-day roof lights are made using high-quality materials such as aluminum frames with double-glazed glass panels designed for longevity against harsh weather conditions like rainstorms or snowfall.
Choosing the Right Size Roof Lantern
The first is the size of your room and how much natural light you want to let in. A larger roof lantern will allow more light into your space, but it may not be suitable for smaller rooms or spaces with low ceilings.
Another factor is the positioning of your roof lantern. If you plan on installing a roof lantern over a dining area or kitchen island, then you’ll need one that’s large enough to cover these areas adequately.
It’s also important to think about how much heat loss and gain can occur through the glazing of your chosen size of Roof Lanterns as this can affect energy efficiency levels within homes.
Best Placement for Roof Lanterns
Firstly, you want to ensure that your roof lantern is positioned in an area where it will receive maximum sunlight throughout the day. This means avoiding areas with overhanging trees or buildings that may block out natural light.
Secondly, think about how you use the space below your roof lantern. If it’s going into a kitchen or dining room for example, then positioning it above an island unit or dining table can create a stunning focal point and provide ample lighting for cooking and entertaining.
Consider how your new addition will look from both inside and outside of your home. A well-positioned roof lantern can add value not only aesthetically but also financially if done correctly.
Selecting the Ideal Frame
The frame is not only responsible for holding the glazing in place but also plays a significant role in determining the overall aesthetic of your home.
One of the most popular materials used for frames is aluminum due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. It’s also lightweight, making it easy to install and handle during transportation.
Another option is timber frames which offer a more traditional look that can complement older homes or those with wooden features. Timber frames require regular maintenance such as painting or staining but can last many years if properly cared for.
For those looking for a modern touch, steel-framed roof lanterns are becoming increasingly popular due to their sleek appearance and strength. However, they tend to be more expensive than other options on the market.
Glazing Options for Roof Lanterns
The most popular types of glazing include double-glazed units, triple-glazed units, and self-cleaning glass. Double-glazed units offer excellent insulation properties and can help reduce energy bills by retaining heat in the winter months.
Triple-glazed units provide even better insulation but come at a higher cost.
Self-cleaning glass is another option that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its low maintenance requirements. This type of glass uses a special coating that breaks down dirt particles when exposed to sunlight, making it easier to clean with just water.
Another factor you may want to consider when selecting your glazing is tinting or shading options. Tinted or shaded glass can help reduce glare from direct sunlight while still allowing natural light into your home.
Ultimately, the choice of which type of glazing you choose will depend on factors such as budget and personal preference.
Understanding U-values for Roof Lanterns
A U-value measures how effective a material is at preventing heat loss. The lower the U-value, the better its insulation properties are.
This means that a roof lantern with a low U-value will keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer while reducing energy bills.
Most modern roof lanterns come with double or triple glazing as standard, which helps to reduce their overall U-values significantly. However, it’s important to note that different types of glass have varying levels of thermal efficiency.
For example, Low-E (low emissivity) glass has an invisible coating that reflects heat back into your room while allowing natural light through – making it an excellent choice for energy-efficient homes.
It’s also worth considering other factors such as frame materials and seals when looking at overall insulation performance since these can affect air leakage rates too.
Leading Brands of Roof Lanterns
Not only will you be assured of quality and durability, but you’ll also have access to expert advice and support throughout the installation process. Some of the leading brands in this industry include UltraSky, Atlas Roof Solutions, Korniche Roof Lanterns, and Sunsquare.
UltraSky offers a range of contemporary roof lantern designs that are perfect for modern homes. Their products feature slimline frames that allow maximum natural light into your living space while maintaining energy efficiency.
Atlas Roof Solutions specializes in bespoke roof lanterns tailored to meet individual customer needs. They offer an extensive range of glazing options including self-cleaning glass with solar control properties.
Korniche Roof Lanterns are known for their sleek design and easy installation process thanks to their innovative click-fit technology system which eliminates any need for cutting or drilling on-site during assembly.
Sunsquare has been providing high-quality skylights since 2004; they now offer an impressive selection of flat-roofed skylights as well as pyramid-shaped ones with various finishes such as aluminium or timber cladding.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Roof Lanterns
Neglecting the upkeep of your roof lantern can lead to dirt buildup and damage over time. To keep it looking its best, you should clean it at least twice a year.
Cleaning a roof lantern is relatively easy; all you need is warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that could scratch the glass or frame.
Start by removing debris from the surface with a brush before washing it down with soapy water.
After cleaning, inspect your roof lantern for signs of damage such as cracks in the glass panes or leaks around the frame joints. If you notice anything unusual during inspection, contact an expert immediately for repairs.
Roof Lanterns and Planning Permission
However, before you start planning your installation, it’s essential to consider whether or not you need planning permission. In most cases, adding a roof lantern falls under permitted development rights and does not require planning permission.
This means that as long as the installation meets certain criteria such as size restrictions and is installed on the rear of the property or within specific guidelines for side installations, then no formal application will be necessary.
However, if you live in a listed building or conservation area where there are strict regulations regarding alterations made to properties’ exteriors – including roofs – then it’s crucial that you check with your local council first before proceeding with any work.
It’s also worth noting that if installing a roof lantern requires significant structural changes such as removing load-bearing walls or altering existing roofing structures beyond what is considered reasonable maintenance work may require building regulation approval from Building Control Bodies (BCBs).
Roof Lantern Costs
The size of the roof lantern, materials used for construction, and installation costs are some of the primary considerations when determining how much you’ll need to spend.
On average, a standard-sized roof lantern can cost anywhere from $2,000 up to $10,000 or more. Larger sizes or custom designs may require additional expenses.
It’s essential to work with an experienced contractor who can provide you with accurate estimates based on your specific needs and budget.
While it may seem like an expensive addition at first glance, investing in a high-quality roof lantern is worth considering as they add value not only aesthetically but also financially by increasing property value over time.
Roof Lanterns Vs. Skylights
While both serve the same purpose of illuminating a room with sunlight, there are some key differences between them.
Skylights are typically installed directly onto the roof surface and provide a simple solution for adding natural light to a space. They come in various shapes and sizes but tend to be smaller than roof lanterns.
Skylights can also be fixed or operable, meaning they can open up for ventilation.
On the other hand, roof lanterns sit on top of an upstand that is built onto the flat or pitched part of your roofing system. They have vertical sides that allow more light into your home from different angles compared to skylights which only let in overhead lighting.
Roof lanterns also offer better insulation properties due to their design which helps keep heat inside during colder months while keeping out unwanted heat during summer months making them energy efficient as well as aesthetically pleasing.
Roof Lanterns Vs. Roof Windows
While both options have their benefits, there are some key differences between them that can help you make an informed decision.
Roof windows are typically smaller and installed flush with the roofline. They provide ventilation as well as natural light and can be opened for fresh air.
Roof windows work best in rooms where space is limited or where privacy is important.
On the other hand, roof lanterns are larger and sit on top of the flat or pitched roofs like a skylight but with vertical sides which allow more sunlight to enter from different angles throughout the day. They offer unobstructed views of your surroundings while also providing ample amounts of daylight into any room they’re installed in.
Ultimately, choosing between a roof lantern vs.
DIY Roof Lanterns
While it’s possible to purchase a kit and install the roof lantern yourself, it’s important to note that this is not an easy task. Installing a roof lantern requires precise measurements and cutting of materials, as well as knowledge of roofing techniques.
Before attempting to install your own roof lantern, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment on hand. You’ll need items such as scaffolding or ladders for access to the installation area, power tools for cutting materials accurately and safely securing them in place.
It’s also essential that you follow all safety guidelines when working at heights. If in doubt about any aspect of installation or safety requirements consult with professionals before starting work.
While DIY installations can save money on labor costs if done correctly they can add value both aesthetically but also financially by increasing property values.
Adding Value to Property With Roof Lanterns
A well-designed and installed roof lantern can be an attractive feature that sets your home apart from others in the neighborhood, making it more desirable to potential buyers. Natural light is a highly sought-after feature in modern homes as it creates an open and spacious feel while reducing energy costs by minimizing reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours.
According to research conducted by estate agents across the UK, adding a roof lantern or skylight could add up to 10% onto the value of your property. This means that if you invest £20k into installing one or two high-quality roof lights into key areas such as living rooms or kitchens, you could potentially see an increase of £40k-£50k on top of what you paid for them when selling.
However, keep in mind that this will depend on various factors such as location and market demand for properties with these features. It’s always best to consult with local real estate professionals before investing heavily in any renovation project solely based on increasing property value.
Roof Lanterns On Pitched Roofs
Pitched roof lanterns are a great way to add natural light and ventilation to your home while enhancing its aesthetic appeal. They come in various shapes, sizes, and designs that complement the style of your property.
Pitched roof lanterns work best when installed at the highest point of the roof’s pitch as this allows for maximum light penetration into your living space. The angle of the pitch will determine how much natural light enters through the glass panes.
When choosing a pitched roof lantern, it is essential to consider factors such as size, shape, frame material and glazing options carefully. You want something that complements both your interior design scheme and exterior architecture while providing optimal functionality.
It is important also to note that installing a pitched roof lantern requires professional expertise due to its complex nature compared with flat-roof installations. A qualified roofing contractor or specialist installer should carry out any installation work required on these types of structures.
Polycarbonate Sheets for Roof Lanterns
They are made from a thermoplastic material that is lightweight, shatterproof, and resistant to UV rays. Polycarbonate sheets come in various colors and thicknesses, allowing you to customize your roof lantern according to your preferences.
One of the main advantages of using polycarbonate sheets for your roof lantern is their ability to diffuse light evenly throughout the room. This means that you can enjoy natural light without any harsh glare or hot spots.
Another benefit of polycarbonate sheets is their insulation properties. They have excellent thermal efficiency compared with glass glazing options, which helps keep heat inside during winter months while reducing solar gain in summer months.
When it comes time for cleaning maintenance on your new Roof Lantern with Polycarbonates Sheets installed they require minimal upkeep as they do not attract dirt or grime like other materials might making them an ideal option if ease-of-maintenance is important factor when choosing roofing materials. If you’re looking for an affordable yet durable option when it comes down selecting glazing options then consider going with polycarbonate sheeting – perfect solution whether building new construction projects or renovating existing ones!
FAQ
What is a roof lantern called?
A roof lantern is often referred to as a roof light, which is an umbrella term for any window positioned atop a flat or pitched roof.
What is the difference between a lantern light and a skylight?
Answer: The difference between a lantern light and a skylight is that lantern lights are formed from multiple glazed panels fitted at an angle and add height to flat roofs, while skylights are fitted directly into the roof at the same angle.
What is the difference between a cupola and a roof lantern?
The difference between a cupola and a roof lantern is that a cupola is a smaller, often dome-shaped structure on a roof, while a roof lantern is a larger, multi-paned glass structure that provides more natural light.
What are the names of roof lights?
Roof lights are also known as Glass Skylights, Lantern Lights, and Glass Domes, all of which describe an opening in a roof space designed to let in natural daylight.
What are the benefits of installing a roof lantern in a building?
A roof lantern in a building provides natural light, creates a sense of spaciousness, enhances architectural design, and potentially improves energy efficiency.
What materials are commonly used in roof lantern construction?
Roof lantern construction commonly utilizes materials such as timber, uPVC, and aluminum.
How does a roof lantern impact energy efficiency in a structure?
A roof lantern impacts a structure’s energy efficiency by increasing natural light, reducing electricity consumption, and potentially improving solar heat gain when designed with energy-efficient glazing.
