Lantern roofs have become increasingly popular in modern home design due to their ability to enhance natural light, provide an aesthetic focal point, and create a sense of spaciousness.
Whether you’re admiring the stars on a cloudless evening or basking in the sun’s comforting rays during daylight hours, lantern roofs seamlessly integrate the ever-shifting wonders of the external world into your indoor environment. They offer uninterrupted glimpses of the sky, fostering a profound connection with the natural world.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of lantern roofs, answering common questions and providing valuable information to help you make an informed decision.
A lantern roof, also known as a roof lantern or skylight lantern, is a type of architectural feature that is installed on a flat or pitched roof to allow natural light to flood into the space below.
Lantern roofs consist of a framework of bars or glazing bars that support multiple glass panels. These panels can be either double-glazed or triple-glazed to provide insulation and energy efficiency.
These adaptable roofs are well suited for a variety of locations in properties, such as flat-roofed extensions, orangeries, newly constructed structures, and dining areas in kitchens.
They seamlessly combine innovation with practicality, creating a harmonious fusion of form and function.
While both lantern roofs and skylights serve the purpose of bringing natural light into a space, there are key differences between the two:
A lantern roof is a more elaborate structure that typically sits above a roof and has a multi-pane design with vertical or sloping sides. It often serves as an architectural feature and can be a central design element in a room.
A skylight is a simpler, single-pane window installed directly into the roof. Skylights are more function than feature, and are primarily designed to provide light and ventilation.
Lantern roofs can be an excellent addition to your home for several reasons:
Lantern roofs allow an abundance of natural light to enter a space, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
They can enhance the aesthetics of your home and create a stunning focal point in any room.
Well-designed lantern roofs can add value to your property.
Some lantern roofs can be opened to allow for natural ventilation, making your space more comfortable.
Before installing a lantern roof, consider the following:
– Planning Permission: Check local building regulations and planning permission requirements.
– Budget: Lantern roofs can vary widely in price, so establish a budget early on.
– Maintenance: Glass and framework require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure longevity. However, options such as self-cleaning glass can greatly reduce the maintenance required.
– Style and Design: Consider the architectural style of your home and choose a lantern roof that complements it.
Modern lantern roofs are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Properly installed and insulated lantern roofs should not significantly affect the room’s temperature.
However, selecting high-quality glazing and insulation is crucial for maintaining comfort and energy efficiency.
Rain noise can be a concern with some roof lanterns, but modern designs often include noise-reduction features.
Double glazing, as well as soundproofing materials, can help minimise noise from rain or other external sources.
Condensation can occur on any glazed surface, including lantern roofs, when there is a significant temperature difference between the inside and outside.
Proper ventilation and insulation can help reduce the likelihood of condensation.
Yes, it is possible to retrofit a lantern roof onto an existing conservatory to enhance natural light and aesthetic appeal.
However, it’s essential to consult with a professional to ensure that your existing structure can support the additional weight and design considerations.
The risk of leaks largely depends on the quality of installation and the materials used.
To minimise the risk of leaks, it’s crucial to hire experienced professionals and choose high-quality lantern roof systems that are specifically designed to be weather-resistant.
At CR Windows, we offer a range of high-quality lantern roofs to enhance your home’s beauty and functionality.
You can choose from:
We offer a diverse range of sizes, available in both square and rectangle designs. Whether you’re in search of a compact or a spacious gazebo-style lantern roof, we have the perfect solution for you.
Our dedicated frame system ensures that rafter bars align flawlessly, regardless of the size.
For smaller roofs, our lantern roofs can be customised with a steeper angle, providing a more pronounced visual impact. This design option features a 35° pitch, in contrast to the typical 20°.
Choose from a selection of colours including white, grey, black, and wood-effect finishes.
Additionally, the glass options encompass white, blue, neutral, bronze, and aqua, with the added benefits of self-cleaning and temperature-controlled glass as standard features.
Our lantern roofs are designed for energy efficiency, boasting exceptional U-values as low as 1.0*, which effectively minimises heat loss, resulting in potential savings on your heating bills.
Moreover, to provide you with peace of mind, both the lantern roof profile and the glass come with a generous 10-year guarantee.
At CR Windows, we are known for our commitment to quality, ensuring that all lantern roofs meet the highest standards for durability and performance.
Our team of experienced professionals ensures a seamless and secure installation process.
We also offer customisation options to tailor your lantern roof to your specific needs and design preferences.
View our brochure to see some examples of the stylish lantern roofs we provide.
In conclusion, lantern roofs are an attractive and functional addition to your home, providing abundant natural light and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
When considering a lantern roof, take into account factors such as planning permissions, budget, and maintenance.
And with a wide range of lantern roofs and our commitment to quality and professional installation, you can trust CR Windows to transform your living space with a stunning lantern roof.
If you’ve been inspired to have a lantern roof installed, we’d love to help. Get in touch today to speak to our friendly team.