Roof windows, or skylights, are windows on the roof. They aren’t just for loft conversions and maybe the only way to let natural light into an area. Roof windows can add the illusion of space, creating a warm, light and airy atmosphere in a room that was otherwise grim.
Roof
Before you consider a roof window, you need to think about whether your roof can handle it. Sometimes, it is the roof, rather than a room that determines if a roof window is appropriate and what size it can be.
Roof Window Outlet has roof windows in a range of sizes. Some roofs already have roof windows. If this is the case, it is simpler to have the new roof window fitted in the same size and shape. When replacing an existing roof window, you may discover it was cut in a custom size or shape. If that is the case, you can opt for changing the size of the opening or order a custom-sized window.
Building
If it is a new roof window cutting into the existing roof and not part of an agreed extension, it is worth checking to see if planning permission is required. Unless the building is listed, this is rarely an issue and most likely not needed. If it is required, it is better to know beforehand rather than applying for retroactive planning permission. Some buildings are only allowed so much glass or so many windows.
Room
The next thing to consider is the room receiving the roof window. Apart from adding natural sunlight to an otherwise dismal room, people like to watch the snow falling from their beds or see the stars in areas light pollution isn’t a problem.
Loft conversions are the ideal location of a roof window. Lofts don’t tend to have windows to begin with. Even in a conversion, the roof might be the only place to add a window. In which case, larger might be better.
Options
Roof windows come with a lot of options. Tinted glass is something to consider as natural sunlight bleaches fabrics. Expensive wool-blend carpets aren’t immune to this effect. If you want clear glass, you will need to consider this. Clear glass with no tint will present the same problems in a kitchen, as it will in a bedroom. Although blinds are available, how much light do you want shining on your Saturday morning? The sun comes up early in the summer.
Heat
Roof windows let the sunlight in. In some cases, this traps heat. A high quality tinted window won’t do this, but it needs to be considered, especially if opting for a large roof window. British houses are built to trap heat and lower bills, which is great until a summer heatwave rolls around.
The right roof window will bring natural light to an area, whether you want to look at the stars from bed or brighten your cooking space. Size matters when deciding on the right window.