Roof lights, yes or no?

7 years ago

Are roof lights required or an expensive overstatement?

I am currently re-planning a design for a brand new open plan kitchen/diner/lounge extension. I have plenty of space for glass with sliding doors on each of the 3 external walls so are roof lights really needed?

Featured Answer

PRO

etc Design Ltd

7 years ago

It all depends on how deep the room is:- Although there may be three walls available for glazing, if the room is more than 5m deep away from the windows you may find it gets pretty dark in there. Rooflights (either windows or lanterns) are closer to horizontal so can bring light in from the sun's highest position in the sky meaning they can really help to bring in natural light for a much smaller size of window compared to a vertical window.

Also I would advise caution if you are considering fully glazing 3 sides of your home - if it's north facing it would mean a lot of heat loss, and if its south facing it might overheat or result in glare unless solar shading is introduced. Also take care if glazing the sides would overlook any neighbours as this would likely trigger some planning issues.

Hope this helps.

Comments (7)

Michelle Reynolds
Original Author
7 years ago
Hi yes that helps to explain it. Originally our architect planned 2 small lanterns then we considered 1 large lantern. Now we are having last minute thoughts about having 1 or 2 flat roof windows!

Our extension will be 4 metres deep but fairly long. The majority of the extension is facing south east. We are fortunate enough to have open plan views to the south east and we are not overlooking neighbours in either of the other directions. However on the south east facing wall we were thinking of having a thin but long slot of glass which would be near to the top (as this will be the kitchen area) because the area is not nice enough outside to incorporate a sliding door or patio area.

So to the north east we are thinking of a sliding patio door (in the 4m wall) into our garden, and to the south east as much glazing as we can, to give our kitchen and dining area a great view across the countryside.

Does that make sense?
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Hi Simon Looks great, just what I was envisaging. What is the difference between a roof light and the eaves roof light please. Yes, I was thinking of putting a light very close or abutting to the other room (this is the utility room - it has a Windows in the wall but the light is quite poor as its north facing and close to an external wall) there will be a big bifold door at the widest part of the kitchen (where the light comes in) Kind regards Lisa
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PRO
Kent Blaxill
7 years ago
Rooflights can do a LOT for a dark space.

This kitchen was incredibly gloomy until we added a bright Lonsdale Rooflight!

Ecogard Glass Rooflight | Fitted in a modern kitchen · More Info
Michelle Reynolds
Original Author
7 years ago
wow, that's lovely!
User
7 years ago
They may not be 'needed' but they definitely add the wow factor, and who doesn't want wow! I say go for it :)
PRO
Kitchenpod - Temporary Kitchen Hire (Home use)
7 years ago
Are you planning floor to ceiling glazing? Having a small wall under windows and French doors unglazed at the bottom section can look more in keeping with some styles. I have a house that is SW facing, went for small rooflights and a lot of glazing and find it can get too hot in the height of summer.
PRO
Exact Architectural Glazing
7 years ago
Hi Michelle

Firstly, sorry I'm a bit late commenting here!

Secondly, if you're still looking for flat glass roof lights, or other roof glazing, please do take a look at our website. Feel free to call or email us to discuss your project and product options - 01428 748255, sales@xactbp.co.uk.

We look forward to hearing from you.

xactbp.co.uk

Roof lights, yes or no?

etc Design Ltd

Comments (7)

Michelle Reynolds
Original Author

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Kent Blaxill

Michelle Reynolds
Original Author

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Kitchenpod - Temporary Kitchen Hire (Home use)

Exact Architectural Glazing

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Roof lights, yes or no?

etc Design Ltd

Comments (7)

Michelle ReynoldsOriginal Author

Related Discussions

Kent Blaxill

Michelle ReynoldsOriginal Author

User

Kitchenpod - Temporary Kitchen Hire (Home use)

Exact Architectural Glazing

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US

Michelle Reynolds
Original Author

Michelle Reynolds
Original Author