Roof lanterns are one of the star players in the world of skylights, bringing a touch of glamour and luxury to a growing number of homes across the UK.

If you have one at the top of your wish list, we’re here to help with expert advice, top brand rooflights and a roof lantern buyer's guide to light the way.

In our roof lanterns buyers guide series, you'll find everything you need to know about these magnificent rooflights – what they are and the benefits they bring, how to make important decisions like how big it should be and whether to make structural changes and finally, how to find and buy the perfect roof lantern for your project. Ready to get started?

What are roof lanterns?

Let's start with the basics and take an overview in part one of our roof lantern buyers guide. A type of overhead skylight, also known as skypods, roof lanterns are designed for visual impact and to maximise the natural light flooding into a space from overhead, making the lantern a central focal point.

In terms of construction, roof lanterns are lightweight, consisting of multiple glazing panels supported by an elegant framework that stands proud of the roof deck surface. This adds height and opens up the room to the sky, giving a feeling of space that cannot be achieved ordinarily with traditional windows.

The benefits of installing a roof lantern

There are a huge range of benefits to installing a roof lantern, from the aesthetic transformation to the wider health, lifestyle and environmental advantages. Whether you’re looking for a roof lantern for your home remodelling project or for a business property, here are a handful that really can't be emphasised enough.

Improved natural light

Roof lanterns are one of the best ways to flood a room with natural light. By allowing light to enter from overhead, they create a brighter and more inviting atmosphere. This can reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day, saving on energy costs and increasing the health benefits for the whole family.

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Health benefits

Natural light is generally better for people than artificial light for several reasons:

• Boosts Vitamin D – Sunlight helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.

• Improves Sleep – Exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm, leading to better sleep quality.

• Reduces Eye Strain & Headaches – Natural light is easier on the eyes compared to artificial lighting, which can sometimes cause strain or flickering-related headaches.

• Enhances Mood – Sunlight increases serotonin levels, which help reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. This is why Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) occurs in winter months with less daylight.

• Boosts Productivity & Focus – Studies show that workplaces with natural lighting led to improved concentration, alertness, and overall performance.

• Better Colour Perception – Natural light provides a fuller spectrum of colours, making it ideal for activities like reading, artwork, or photography.

While artificial light is necessary at times (especially in the evening), maximising natural light during the day is beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.

Enhanced ventilation

Many roof lanterns can be designed with opening mechanisms to allow fresh air into the room, improving ventilation. This feature is especially beneficial for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where humidity is higher.

Aesthetic appeal

Without doubt, roof lanterns create a striking focal point and add a sense of grandeur to a space, and this is one of the biggest reasons for their current popularity. They can elevate the design of both traditional and modern homes, with different styles available to match any aesthetic. Look at our range here and see for yourself.

Energy efficiency

Roof lanterns, particularly those made with double-, triple-glazing or energy-efficient glass, can help maintain consistent indoor temperatures. This means that they can contribute to environmental and energy savings by reducing the need for supplementary heating in winter and cooling in summer.

Is a roof lantern the right choice for my roof?

Now we've covered the basics in our roof lantern buyers guide and learned a little more about these stunning rooflights, it’s time to start getting into the realities of installing one, which doesn’t always play out perfectly for every homeowner. However, while some projects may be tricky, with the right advice and careful planning, there is always a solution in our experience. Give us a call and let’s talk roof lanterns.

More in our roof lantern buyers guide

Part two: is a roof lantern the right choice?

In part two of our roof lantern buyers guide series, we'll talk about some of the considerations you’ll need to make during the planning stages.

Part three: sizing up and final buying advice

In part three of our roof lantern buyers guide, we'll talk about cutting through the jargon, how to measure up and get to the exciting part – buying your roof lantern.