Here at Trade Access Panels we are often asked to explain the difference between Rooflights and Roof Lanterns as well as the differences between each suppliers' options that we stock.

ROOFLIGHTS

In layman's terms, a 'Rooflight' is more of a generic term which can mean many different products. Typically, a 'Rooflight' refers to a glazed or polycarbonate unit which can be installed on a flat roof.

Rooflights are usually installed with an upstand or kerb which supports the unit and allows for any weathering to be carried out (to ensure that there are no leakages into the property). It is commonplace for Rooflights needing to be installed at a certain slight pitch to ensure that the Guarantees supplied by the suppliers are not void.

Rooflights are available in an array of different designs and styles, to not only assist in harnessing the benefits of natural daylight within the property but to also assist with ventilation or access onto the roof including Automatic Opening Ventilation Systems (AOV) also known as Smoke Ventilation Systems.

We are proud suppliers of Brett Martin Mardome, JetCox Coxdome, Atlas and VELUX rooflights in both glass and polycarbonate options.


ROOF LANTERN

A Roof Lantern differs to a Roof Light in that it is more of an architectural structure of its own. Roof Lanterns are in the most part, installed as part of a larger roof and provide natural light into the room below.

When we look back in history, Roof Lanterns have been commonplace for the elite aristocrats who installed them within their properties to showcase the beautiful grounds of their estate and to help bring the outside in.

Nowadays, Roof Lanterns are not only for the elite and we are proud suppliers of both the Atlas aluminium frame and Eurocel UPVC frame options which are made-to-measure and are available in an array of colours including the option for white internal with a differing colour externally to match your windows or property.

OFF-THE-SHELF DESIGN VS CUSTOMISED

Both Roof Lights and Roof Lanterns are becoming increasingly popular over recent years for both domestic and commercial properties. The advantage of standardised off-the-shelf stock sizes means that they are usually available for delivery within a very short time frame. The disadvantage of this is that you may already have a 'hole' which isn't the exact size of a stock option. If you are looking for a larger section of glazing on your roof, then your options are reduced as each pane can only be a certain size due to weight and stability. We can now offer Mardome Glass Link which is a modular rooflight option for your larger roof projects (multi-pane unit with a maximum span of 3.8m and unlimited length).

Roof Lanterns tend to be much more bespoke and offer less off-the-shelf options meaning they can be made to exactly suit your requirements but can be on a much longer lead-time.

If you should have a specific requirement then please give our dedicated sales team a call and we will gladly assist you – 01922 500145 – sales@tradeaccesspanels.co.uk.