What Are The Differences Between Rooflights And Skylights

It may be difficult for homeowners to find the difference between a rooflight and a skylight. Although they have different technical parameters, they serve the same purpose: to bring as much natural light as possible into a room. The interior space benefits greatly.

Many modern investors recognise the benefits of well-lit interiors. These spaces foster relaxation, socialising and active pursuits. A correctly-installed window provides unrestricted access to natural light, whilst also providing ventilation.

Rooflights and skylights are popular options for enhancing traditional-style pitched roofs and modern flat roofs. They offer greater possibilities for letting sunlight into rooms while enhancing the look and feel of interiors. They do not restrict the design of the room in any way and offer a great deal of freedom in this respect.

 

What types of rooflights and skylights are there?

The range of skylights and rooflights available today is extremely diverse. They can be easily adapted to the interior and exterior aesthetics of a building:

• roof lanterns – ideal for both commercial and residential buildings. They allow large amounts of natural daylight to be introduced into rooms. The modern system can be adapted to suit almost any building;
• skylight entrance – this solution works well where a flat roof offers the opportunity to create a terrace at the very top of the house. The structure is strengthened as much as possible while allowing natural daylight into the internal spaces;
• opening roof windows – bringing plenty of natural light and fresh air into the living space. Ventilation can be provided to keep the interior temperature and humidity under full control. This design allows seamless access to the roof;
• electric skylights – a modern solution for bringing more natural light into rooms and allowing them to be properly ventilated. They are operated by a remote control or control panel. The roof window can be positioned at a high level;
• sliding rooflight – the glazing is equipped with a mechanism that allows convenient control. The window can be opened to let in plenty of natural light and fresh air;
• sun tunnels – work well in hard-to-reach areas and bring natural light into the smallest spaces. Their reflective surface attracts the sun's rays and diffuses them across the ceiling. A very stylish solution.

   

What are skylights?

Skylights are most commonly mentioned for traditional pitched roofs, but it is possible to create bespoke ones to enhance flat roof systems. Glazing arrangements vary depending on the type of roofing. Skylights are therefore a very broad term.

Skylight models are available in a variety of styles to meet homeowners’ needs. They also bring more natural light into the interior than other glazed units. They are often fitted with an electrical control system to ensure that the rooms are properly ventilated.

 

What are rooflights?

Rooflights consist of a set of glass panels that can be installed as flat roof windows but are just as likely to enhance a pitched roof. They are installed out of a plane with respect to the level of the roof covering. They are complemented by gutter systems to provide the correct height to ensure free water drainage, which is particularly important on flat roofs.

Rooflights can be used to easily bring natural daylight into interiors.

 

Benefits of Skylights and Rooflights

A skylight or rooflight is an investment with many tangible benefits. The glazed units in each of the available versions provide access to a large amount of natural light, which has a positive effect on the ambience of the interior. In addition, there is no loss of privacy – no one can see through the rooflights, which is a great comfort.

With access to plenty of natural light, the mood and well-being of loft dwellers are greatly improved. The day becomes more beautiful when you can see the sun's beautiful rays.

Ventilation is not compromised in rooms where these glazed units are installed. The bespoke glazed units are equipped with an innovative ventilation system that ensures the right room conditions, including regular ventilation. The best choice is electrically operated windows, which can be operated by remote control. They can even be positioned at a great height and controlled seamlessly.

It is worth noting that all the modern window systems discussed here are made from high-quality materials so that prolonged and heavy rainfall or snowfall will not damage them or diminish their effectiveness. The living space is fully protected, and natural daylight can freely enter through the windows.

The main difference between a skylight and a traditional flat roof system is that it achieves maximum energy efficiency. The glazing is fitted with low-emission glass and also has an advanced sealing system surrounding the roof, resulting in minimal heat loss. This also has a positive effect on reducing heating bills. Pure benefits!

If you are in any doubt as to which type of glazed unit is best suited to your roofing, you should consult an expert before making your choice. Both flat and pitched roofs are enhanced by glazing that lasts for many years.