Adding a skylight is one of the most effective ways to introduce more natural light into your home.
Whether you’re improving a kitchen extension, hallway, loft conversion or bathroom, a well-placed skylight can make a space feel brighter, more open, and more connected to the outdoors.
However, successful skylight installation takes careful planning, from selecting the right unit to understanding what happens during installation day and beyond.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, covering key considerations such as roof type, waterproofing, permissions, and aftercare.
Whether you’re choosing a simple fixed skylight or planning a more involved flat roof skylight installation, this will help you know what to expect and how to get it right.
Choosing The Right Skylight
The first step is selecting a skylight that suits your roof structure and your goals for the space. There is a wide range of options available:
– Flat roof skylights are frameless or low-profile units designed to sit flush with flat or low-pitch roofs. They are ideal for extensions, garden rooms, and flat-roofed bathrooms.
– Pitched roof windows are often fitted in loft conversions or sloped roofs to maximise daylight and ventilation.
– Walk-on skylights can be installed in roof terraces or internal floors for light and access.
– Electric and opening rooflights offer natural ventilation in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.
– Roof lanterns are an architectural option that adds volume and multi-directional light to larger spaces.
Choosing the right product early on will help you manage budget expectations and get accurate estimates for your skylight installation cost.
Planning And Preparation
Before any work begins, it’s important to consider the technical and legal aspects of your installation.
Roof Structure
Your contractor will assess your roof’s pitch, materials, joist layout, and insulation to determine what type of skylight is suitable. On flat roofs, the installer will check for proper drainage and fall direction to prevent water pooling. On pitched roofs, they’ll examine how rafters will be affected by any structural changes.
Planning Permission
Most skylight installation projects are allowed under permitted development rights and don’t require planning permission. However, if your home is a listed building, in a conservation area, or if the skylight will significantly protrude from the roofline, you may need formal approval.
Hiring A Professional
Choose a contractor who has proven experience with the specific type of skylight you plan to install. They should be able to offer clear, itemised quotes along with realistic timeframes for completion. It’s also a good idea to ask for references from previous clients to gauge the quality of their work.
What Happens On Installation Day
– Site Preparation: Installers will clear the area indoors and outdoors, protect surrounding surfaces, and mark out the skylight’s placement.
– Cutting The Opening: The contractor will cut through the roof to match the size of the skylight, adjusting joists or rafters as necessary. In flat roofs, this includes the addition of a kerb or upstand if not already present.
– Installing The Frame And Flashing: The skylight frame is secured in place. Proper flashing and weatherproofing layers are applied to seal the area and ensure long-term watertightness, which is especially important on flat roofs.
– Glazing The Unit: The glazed panel is installed, manually or with lifting equipment, depending on the size, and sealed around the edges.
– Internal Finishing: Internally, plastering, boxing, or trimming is completed. If the skylight is electric, wiring is connected at this stage.
A single-unit skylight installation is usually completed in a day. Larger or bespoke systems may take longer. Reliable contractors will follow detailed skylight installation instructions to ensure safety and durability.
Understanding Skylight Installation Costs
The total cost of installing a skylight can vary significantly depending on several factors.
These include the type and size of the skylight and whether it’s being installed on a flat or pitched roof.
The choice between a manual or electric skylight will also influence the final figure, as will the level of internal work required, such as plastering, boxing in, or electrical wiring.
For an accurate skylight installation cost estimate, it’s always best to obtain a detailed quote that reflects your space’s specific needs and the scope of the work involved.
Common Challenges And How To Avoid Them
Even with expert installation, some challenges can arise.
– Leaks are among the most common issues, often caused by poor sealing or incorrect flashing. They are more likely to occur on flat roofs, so they must be correctly sealed.
– Condensation can also be a problem if the room lacks adequate ventilation or insulation.
– Occasionally, structural surprises such as unexpected joists, ageing materials, or hidden wiring can complicate the installation process.
Fortunately, these issues are usually preventable through a thorough site survey, accurate measurements, and careful adherence to the manufacturer’s skylight installation instructions.
Aftercare And Maintenance
Skylights are generally low-maintenance, but a few simple upkeep habits can help extend their lifespan and maintain performance.
It’s important to clean the glazing every few months to prevent a build-up of dirt, moss, or water marks, which is particularly worth keeping on top of with a flat roof skylight installation.
Seals should be checked annually for any signs of weathering or wear, and nearby gutters or drainage points must be kept clear to avoid water pooling around the frame.
If your skylight allows a lot of sun in, fitting blinds or shades can help with light or thermal control.
For electric models, occasional servicing ensures continued smooth operation, especially if they’re connected to smart systems or rain sensors.
Ready To Let The Light In?
A well-planned skylight installation can completely transform your home, bringing in natural light, improving ventilation, and enhancing comfort. Whether you’re adding a fixed unit above a stairwell or investing in a walk-on skylight for a flat roof terrace, the process doesn’t have to be daunting.
By understanding your options, planning the details, and hiring a reputable installer, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of contemporary skylights and flood your space with daylight for years to come.
Here at The Rooflight Centre, we have a variety of roof lights available and can recommend trusted installers who can complete the installation safely and successfully.
Contact us today for your made-to-measure skylights that will enhance your home.
