When contemplating ways to boost your living spaces with natural light, both roof lanterns and skylights emerge as popular choices. While they serve the common purpose of brightening up interiors, they differ significantly in design, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Choosing between the two involves careful consideration of various factors tailored to your home’s specific needs. Let’s delve into the differences to aid you in making an informed decision.
Defining Skylights and Roof Lanterns:
Skylights and roof lanterns share the commonality of being rooftop fixtures, distinct from conventional wall-mounted windows. However, their structural variances fundamentally shape their characteristics and applications.
Skylights, characterised by their flat profile, integrate seamlessly into the roof, either flush or slanted, following the roof’s incline.
Conversely, roof lanterns stand as independent structures, projecting from the roof in a pyramid shape. Their larger size and distinct framing, featuring multiple glass panels, lend them an architectural elegance that enhances the visual appeal of any property.
Distinguishing Features:
Appearance: Skylights have a sleek and understated design, functioning primarily to augment interior illumination without drawing attention to themselves. In contrast, roof lanterns contribute a decorative flourish to rooftops, combining distinctive framing and shaped glass panels to create an eye-catching architectural element.
Size and Shape: Skylights are limited in size due to structural constraints, typically comprising a single pane of glass per frame. Roof lanterns, with their interconnected glass panels, offer greater flexibility in size, capable of spanning significant dimensions while maintaining structural integrity.
Ventilation: Skylights offer the advantage of ventilation, allowing for increased airflow when opened, akin to standard windows. Roof lanterns, while flooding rooms with natural light, typically lack operable features for airflow.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Cleaning considerations vary between the two options. Skylights, with their flat profile, may offer easier accessibility for cleaning, whereas the multi-angled surfaces of roof lanterns can pose challenges. However, advancements such as self-cleaning glass mitigate maintenance concerns associated with roof lanterns.
Price: While both options may have similar square meter costs, roof lanterns often incur higher installation expenses due to their bespoke nature. However, advancements in design and installation techniques streamline the process, ensuring cost-effectiveness and convenience.
Choosing the Ideal Option:
Determining the optimal choice between roof lanterns and skylights hinges on various factors, including aesthetic preferences, functional requirements, and budget considerations.
Skylights emerge as a straightforward solution, offering quick installation and versatile functionality, ideal for spaces necessitating both light and ventilation.
On the other hand, the architectural appeal and expansive illumination of roof lanterns make them a compelling choice for those seeking to enhance their home’s visual impact. With options available to suit diverse architectural styles and preferences, roof lanterns offer a timeless elegance that complements any property.
Contact Us:
Trust the team at Narborough Windows and Conservatories to guide the way and help you choose the best choice for your home. Get in contact with us for your free consultation!