Glazing Hub Direct Blog

When it comes to adding more natural light into your home, one question comes up time and again: should you choose a roof lantern or a flat rooflight? Both options can transform a dark space into a bright and welcoming room, but each brings its own style, benefits, and considerations.

In this guide, we’ll explore the differences between roof lanterns and flat rooflights, their advantages, and the factors to keep in mind when deciding which option best suits your home.

What Are Roof Lanterns and Flat Rooflights?

At their core, both roof lanterns and flat rooflights are designed to maximise natural light. The difference lies in how they look and perform.

• Roof lanterns are raised, often pyramid or rectangular in shape, creating a striking architectural feature.

• Flat rooflights sit flush with the roofline, offering a sleek, minimalist appearance that blends beautifully with modern architecture.

Your choice will often depend on the character of your property, the function of the room, and of course, your budget.

Key Design Differences

Roof lanterns bring drama and height to a space, becoming a natural focal point in kitchens, dining rooms, or extensions. Their pitched design with multiple panes allows light to pour in from different angles.

Flat rooflights, by contrast, are understated. They provide maximum daylight without dominating the space – ideal for homeowners who prefer clean, modern lines.

Materials and Construction

• Roof lanterns are usually built with aluminium, timber, or uPVC frames. Aluminium gives slim sightlines and durability, timber adds warmth and character, while uPVC is a more cost-effective choice.

• Flat rooflights tend to use streamlined aluminium frames with larger single panes of glass for a minimalist finish.

Both now benefit from modern glazing options, including double or triple glazing, thermal breaks, and solar-control glass to boost energy efficiency.

Benefits of Roof Lanterns

• Architectural impact: A roof lantern can instantly elevate a room, creating a sense of height and grandeur.

• Light from all angles: Their pitched design captures sunlight throughout the day, helping brighten deep or north-facing rooms.

• Adds value and character: Particularly effective in traditional homes or statement extensions.

Benefits of Flat Rooflights

• Modern, minimalist style: Flush with the roofline, they fit seamlessly into contemporary homes.

• Practicality: Easier to install, generally more affordable, and require less maintenance than roof lanterns.

• Versatility: Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small bathroom skylights to large expanses over open-plan living spaces.

• Energy efficiency: Typically achieve lower U-values (better insulation), helping reduce heating costs.

Performance and Maintenance

• Energy efficiency: Flat rooflights often outperform roof lanterns thanks to fewer joints and simpler construction.

• Maintenance: Flat rooflights are easier to clean and require less frequent upkeep. Roof lanterns, with more joints and seals, may need additional care.

• Durability: Both are long-lasting when installed correctly, but flat rooflights tend to have fewer weak points exposed to weather.

Installation and Costs

• Roof lanterns require more structural support and professional installation, which makes them more expensive overall. They typically need reinforcement and can take a few days to install.

• Flat rooflights are lighter, simpler to fit, and often cost 30–40% less, both in terms of installation and ongoing maintenance.

Which Is Best for Your Home?

• Roof lanterns suit traditional and period properties where architectural character matters. They’re also ideal for statement rooms like kitchens or dining areas where you want a real ‘wow’ factor.

• Flat rooflights are perfect for contemporary homes or rooms where simplicity, energy efficiency, and minimal maintenance are priorities. They’re especially suited to bedrooms, studies, and bathrooms.

Final Thoughts

Both roof lanterns and flat rooflights are excellent ways to bring natural light into your home. The right choice depends on your property’s style, the purpose of the room, and your budget.

• Choose a roof lantern if you want drama, architectural presence, and light from all angles.

• Opt for a flat rooflight if you prefer a sleek, modern look, with easier installation and better energy efficiency.

Whichever option you choose, the result will be the same: more natural light, a brighter home, and a space that feels bigger and more inviting.