Blog
Skylight or Roof Lantern: What’s the Best Choice for Your London Home?
When designing a bright, open space in your home, adding natural light from above is a fantastic choice. Both skylights (roof lights) and roof lanterns are popular options for achieving this effect, but how do you choose between the two? Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide which one is the best fit for your home and lifestyle.
Roof Lights vs. Roof Lanterns: A Detailed Comparison What Are Roof Lights?
A roof light, often called a skylight, is a flat or gently curved window installed directly into the plane of your roof. These can be custom-made or available in standard sizes and are suitable for both flat and pitched roofs. Roof lights are designed to be sleek and subtle, providing plenty of natural light while blending seamlessly into the architecture.
What Are Roof Lanterns?
Roof lanterns, on the other hand, are more architectural features than simple windows. These structures sit above the roofline, with a raised design that captures and disperses light in a unique way. Often associated with traditional or period properties, roof lanterns create a striking visual effect inside and out, making them as much a statement piece as they are a source of illumination.Let’s break it down further to highlight the key differences:
1. Appearance
- Roof Light (VueSky Skylight):
Subtle and discreet, nearly flush with the roof surface, making it less visually prominent. - Roof Lantern:
A raised architectural feature, standing out more due to its prominent position above the roofline.
2. Shape
- Roof Light (Skylight):
Generally rectangular but available in various designs to suit different architectural needs. - Roof Lantern:
Typically rectangular but also comes in more decorative shapes like pyramids or octagons.
3. Light Entry
- Roof Light (Skylight):
Offers direct, diffused natural light through a flat pane, ideal for brightening the space below. - Roof Lantern:
Delivers more dynamic light with enhanced reflection and distribution, thanks to its raised design.
4. Cost
- Roof Light (Skylight):
More cost-effective, especially in standard sizes, making it a budget-friendly choice. - Roof Lantern:
Usually more expensive due to its complex design and construction.
5. Ventilation
- Roof Light (Skylight):
Provides flexibility with both manual and electric opening options for airflow. - Roof Lantern:
Ventilation is more limited, with fewer models offering opening features.
6. Maintenance
- Roof Light (Skylight):
Requires frequent cleaning due to water pooling, which can leave residue on the flat surface. - Roof Lantern:
Easier to maintain as its sloped design encourages water to run off, reducing buildup.
7. Planning Requirements
Roof Light (Skylight):
Typically does not require planning permission but it’s best to verify with local regulations.
Roof Lantern:
Similar planning guidelines as skylights, but it’s still advisable to check for specific requirements in your area.
Roof Lights are ideal if you want an affordable, low-profile option that brings in natural light without significantly altering your roofline. They are perfect for modern homes or when you want the focus to remain on other architectural elements.
Roof Lanterns are better suited if you’re looking to create a dramatic focal point. Their unique design and ability to catch light at different angles make them ideal for larger spaces or rooms where you want to make a statement.
When choosing between a roof light and a roof lantern, consider the architectural style of your home, your budget, and how much natural light you want. Roof lights are a more straightforward option, while roof lanterns can add an extra touch of elegance and grandeur, especially in larger rooms or spaces with high ceilings.
Do You Need Planning Permission?
In most cases, neither roof lights nor roof lanterns will require planning permission, provided they adhere to certain criteria, such as not protruding too far from the roof or exceeding height restrictions. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with your local planning authority or your contractor to confirm the regulations in your area.
Ready to Brighten Your Home?
At VueSky Skylights, we specialize in high-quality custom roof lights and skylight systems that can be tailored to your specific needs. Our triple-glazed solutions not only flood your home with natural light but also improve energy efficiency. If you have any questions or want to explore your options further, feel free to reach out to our expert team today. Choosing between a roof light and a roof lantern depends on the unique requirements of your home. Whether you opt for the simplicity of a Vuesky Skylight or the grandeur of a roof lantern, both options offer incredible ways to transform your space with natural light.
