How To: Illuminate Your Space With A Roof Light

Whether you're extending, converting or renovating your property, roof lights are an excellent way of bringing light into your home, and generally speaking the higher the light source, the brighter the space will be. By providing up to 40% more light than a standard window installation, it's clear to see why roof lights have become such a popular choice for the modern-day homeowner.

With a number of options available for both pitched and flat structures, as well as many suppliers offering a bespoke service, there is sure to be a roof light out there to suit your project. Typically, the most popular type of roof light for a pitched roof is the Velux-style window, which is designed to fit between the rafters. This type of roof light are a conventional choice for attic conversions, because as well as being available in a range of shapes and sizes, providing they are positioned to the rear of the house they will not require any planning permission. 

When it comes to flat roofs, there are several roof light options to choose between, varying from simple flat roof lights to roof lanterns. Whilst roof lanterns are raised, pitched windows create a stunning feature in a more traditional room, so they're a good option for those looking to create a garden room or conservatory with a partially glazed roof. 

If you prefer a more contemporary style, flat or flush roof lights effortlessly provide a minimalistic look. Available in a vast range of sizes and frames, they are designed to be concealed within the ceiling to give the glass a frameless appearance when viewed from inside the room. 

In some instances, when you can't reach a roof light to open it manually, an automatic controlled system is necessary to operate the roof light, with some models even featuring a sensor which closes the window once it starts to rain! Sun shading is also a very important consideration, particularly for south facing windows. This is key as too much glazing can cause overheating, resulting in a space that's too hot and therefore unusable during the Summer and even Winter months.

However, with the addition of an external roof blind from Caribbean Blinds, shown above and below, excessive solar heat gain can be prevented, reducing room temperatures by more than 10 degrees centigrade for a truly comfortable internal environment. Glare becomes a thing of the past, as does air conditioning, whilst privacy from overlooking buildings is provideds, creating a space that can be enjoyed to its full potential 365 days a year. 

With an endless range of options to choose from, irrespective of your style, budget or requirement, there is a roof light, along with an external roof blind, to perfectly compliment your property this Summer. 

If you would like to see our external roof blinds in the flesh, along with our full range of innovative shading products, visit us at Grand Designs Live where we will be exhibiting on stand G120 from 30th April to 8th May. Along with a number of sensational show offers for you to enjoy, our experts with over 25 years experience will be on hand to provide sound, honest advice regarding the correct shading system for your project.