Top tips for adding natural light into a home
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The classic design of a rooflight makes it a versatile addition to any property and a popular choice for any homeowner. An older property can be rejuvenated with a conservation style rooflight, and newer properties can add architectural interest with a bespoke option. From walk-on to flat, pitched to lantern, there’s an endless choice to suit any home.
Why rooflights?
Natural light – The amount of natural light that floods into your home can transform your property. Depending on the orientation of your home, you may benefit from the glow of the morning sunrise or evening sunset, allowing you to bring warmth and comfort into your home, where it previously wouldn’t have been.
Property value – A rooflight could increase the value of your home by up to 21 percent, depending on the extent of the project that has been undertaken. For example, investing in a rooflight loft conversion can add exceptional value with pitched rooflights allowing unused space to become a guest bedroom or office. Even with a small ground floor extension, light can be dramatically increased by adding a rooflight.
Defined zones – Turning unused, dark spaces within a home into effective living spaces can be done simply by adding natural light into those shaded areas, increasing its liveability. Adding rooflights to an extension or conversion will maximise light, while also opening up the space.
Rooms appear larger – The addition of light can instantly extend the look and feel of a home, adding the illusion of a larger floor space and higher ceilings, creating a welcoming environment with natural views.
What to remember when adding a rooflight:
1. Consider your budget – The cost of a rooflight can vary depending on the quality, design, size, and shape, as well as its location within a home. A single, standard size rooflight will cost you much less than multiple bespoke rooflights, and lantern rooflights may cost more than standalone pitched alternatives. The amount of glass needed to create maximum impact, as well as the material used for the frame, or added features such as self-cleaning glass, must all be considered as they will further increase the price.
2. Consider the style of the property – The existing architecture of your home must be your considered before you invest in new rooflights. If you live in a conservation area, you will be restricted to using conservation rooflights, as they will blend most effectively into the surrounding area. These heritage properties are known for their historical significance, so ensuring that you contact a reputable rooflight company who can supply you with a conservation option, such as our Conservation Rooflight, is vital. Without this, your project may be prevented from progressing further.
3. Flat roof extension - Depending on the size and scope of the extension, rooflights can be a very popular addition to a project as they may not require planning permission. They are a great way to transform a living space without obstructing the view of the skyline, especially if you choose a flat rooflight, which are also the most cost-effective option.
4. Pitched roof extension - Letting as much light as possible into a home is the best way to create space in a property, with pitched rooflights being the most structured option aesthetically. These pitched rooflight extensions can be more expensive however, as they can take longer to install and may require planning permission.
5. Loft conversions - A loft conversion can instantly add an exceptional amount of living space to a home, which will in turn add value to the property. Compared to dormer conversions, these projects are more cost-effective, which makes them a very popular option. The main benefit of a loft conversion is that it does not tamper with the structure of the building itself, which makes it a much simpler process.
6. Kitchen renovations - The kitchen is the heart of every home, but they are not always as welcoming as they could be. Linear skylights can transform a space, especially if they are added in groups as they flood light into a property. These are a great choice for long and narrow living spaces, maximising the space available, while also adding a real feature point into a home. If this option does not work well for your space, a lantern rooflight is a great alternative, as it opens up the home in every direction with its 3D nature. This is a choice that works well for large, open plan kitchen and dining spaces that are central to many large homes. With a variety of glazing options, as well as entirely bespoke rooflights available, you can perfectly match the rooflight to your home.
7. Home offices - Home working up in the loft, or on the upstairs landing or mezzanine, is not conducive to effective working if it is dark. Installing a rooflight can turn a space into a dynamic environment. Artificial light can be very harmful for your eyes, with natural light being the best option where possible, making your day much more enjoyable by creating a more appealing, natural aesthetic.
To find out more about The Rooflight Company and its range of products, please visit https://www.therooflightcompany.co.uk/.