Can You Add a Roof Lantern to an Existing Roof?

09th April 2024

Glass roofs are everywhere in modern home design, and it's easy to see why. They flood your home with natural light and create a sense of bright, airy spaciousness, all while offering a sleek and sophisticated look. But there's a catch - too much glass can compromise the energy efficiency of your home, making it hotter in the summer, colder in the winter, and sending your energy bills skyrocketing.

Luckily, roof lanterns, also known as roof lights or skylights, offer the perfect solution. They provide the extra light and openness of a glass roof, without the heat and reduced energy-efficiency of a fully glazed conservatory. This means you get to enjoy the best of both worlds!

If you've been thinking about installing a roof lantern in your home, or if a client has requested one, you may be wondering whether it's feasible to add it to an existing roof rather than building a whole new one. Well, that's what the window experts at Alimax are here to clear up!

Below, we'll explore the practicality of installing a roof lantern on an existing roof and the factors you need to take into account if you decide to do so. Let's get started!

Can You Install a Roof Lantern on Your Existing Roof?

Generally speaking, it's very possible to add a roof lantern to an existing roof. However, it's a complex project that should only be undertaken by a qualified professional, and there are many factors to consider before doing so. We've gone over the most important ones below!

What Do You Need to Consider When Adding a Roof Lantern to an Existing Roof?

Here are some of the things you'll need to consider when installing a roof lantern onto an existing roof:

1. Roof Strength and Type

Not all roofs are built the same. Different roof designs have different weight capacities - for instance, a trussed roof might be able to handle a heavier lantern than a tiled roof. Some materials, like concrete or slate tiles, might also require additional reinforcement for secure installation.

Before installing a roof lantern, you should assess the roof's structural integrity to make sure the lantern can be safely supported. The last thing you want is for the roof to splinter or, even worse, collapse under the weight of its new addition.

2. Lantern Design and Placement

Along with examining the existing roof, you'll also need to consider the lantern itself. The size of the lantern directly affects the amount of weight it adds to the roof structure - a larger lantern means more weight, and a smaller one means less. Be sure to select a lantern size that's appropriate for your roof space.

The placement of the lantern is also important, as it impacts both weight distribution and how much natural light the space receives. Identify the ideal location that will evenly distribute the weight and maximise the amount of light that enters the room.

3. Structural Reinforcement

In some cases, roof lanterns can be installed without requiring any additional support. However, depending on the condition of your roof's structure and the size of the lantern you've selected, supplementary support beams may be necessary to guarantee the roof can safely bear the extra weight. This is something you'll want to determine as part of your initial assessment before proceeding with the installation.

4. Building Regulations

The good news? Roof lanterns usually fall under permitted development, so you likely won't need to go through the hassle of planning permission. This is true as long as they meet the following criteria:

• The roof lantern must not protrude more than 150mm above the existing roof plane
• It can't be taller than the highest part of the house roof
• Any side-facing windows must be made of obscure glazing
• Any openings must be at least 1.7 metres above the floor

These restrictions apply to alterations to houses; guidelines are different for flats, maisonettes, converted houses, listed buildings, or buildings in a conservation area.

If you have any further questions, your local building authority can provide guidance on the permits or regulations you need to follow.

Bring Natural Light and Beauty Into Your Home With a Stunning Roof Lantern From Alimax!

Now that you've gone over the guidelines above, it's time to start thinking about upgrading your or your client's existing roof with a brand-new lantern. If you're ready to get started, you've come to the right place!

At Alimax, we manufacture and deliver two roof high-performance roof lanterns: flat and pitched. Both have the power to transform any space with:

• Unobstructed views: The sleek aluminium frame and maximised glass area create a sense of openness and bring the outdoors in.
• Exceptional performance: Enjoy superior thermal insulation, light transmission, noise reduction, and security -- all thanks to our thermally-broken profiles and safety glass.
• Effortless installation: Designed for a quick and easy fit, our lanterns minimise disruption during your project.
• Peace of mind: We prioritise your convenience with complete delivery and pick-up, keeping transportation hassles off your plate. Lead times start from just 10 days with regular updates throughout the process.
• Optional solar control glass: Maintain a comfortable temperature year-round by minimising unwanted heat gain.

Ready to take the first step? Get a free quote online or call us on 01425 205465, and let Alimax illuminate your space today!