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 better 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.
From simple fixed skylights to more complex flat roof installations, you’ll know exactly what to expect, starting with selecting the ideal unit all the way through to post-installation aftercare requirements.
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, including:
– 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. Because these areas often lack natural light from side windows, flat roof units help draw sunlight deep into the room, making spaces feel brighter and more usable throughout the day.
– Pitched roof windows are often fitted in loft conversions or sloped roofs to maximise daylight and ventilation. Their angled position captures more sky view and is particularly effective on south-facing slopes, where maximum sunlight exposure can be achieved year-round.
– Walk-on skylights can be installed in roof terraces or internal floors for light and access. These toughened laminated glass units are designed to support foot traffic while allowing natural light to filter through. They enhance the architectural appeal of a space and improve daylight flow between levels without compromising safety.
– Electric and opening rooflights offer natural ventilation in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. In moisture-prone rooms such as en-suites or utility areas, opening rooflights also helps minimise condensation and odour build-up. Some units can be connected to rain sensors or smart home systems for automatic closing in bad weather.
– Roof lanterns are an architectural option that adds volume and multi-directional light to larger spaces. These are especially popular in open-plan living areas, where their height and glazing angles help distribute light evenly and create a focal feature.
Avoiding common mistakes at this stage can save time and cost later. Oversizing a unit for a small space may cause overheating, while undersizing could limit the desired light benefits. A professional installer can help strike the right balance.
Choosing the right product early on will also help you manage budget expectations and get accurate estimates for your skylight installation.
GETTING THE MOST FROM YOUR SKYLIGHT
A well-positioned skylight brings a range of benefits, from brightening your space and improving airflow to enhancing energy efficiency and overall ambience.
Once you’ve chosen the right skylight for your home, it’s worth considering how to make the most of these advantages.
ORIENTATION AND PLACEMENT
Where you place your skylight affects how much sunlight you’ll receive throughout the day. North-facing skylights offer steady, indirect light ideal for workspaces, while south-facing options bring in strong natural light, which can help with passive heating in cooler months.
East-facing skylights catch the morning sun, while west-facing ones can add warmth and light in the late afternoon.
ROOM FUNCTIONALITY
Consider how the skylight will support the room’s purpose.
In bathrooms, a fixed flat roof skylight can provide privacy and natural light without compromising the layout.
In kitchens, an opening rooflight or vented skylight can help extract heat and steam.
Bedrooms benefit from blinds or solar control glazing to help regulate sleep patterns.
SIZE AND SHAPE
Larger skylights naturally allow in more light but may require additional structural reinforcement. Long, narrow skylights suit hallways and corridors, while square or rectangular designs often work well in kitchens and open-plan spaces.
Custom sizes are available for more tailored solutions.
VENTILATION AND CLIMATE CONTROL
If you want to improve air circulation, particularly in humid rooms like kitchens or bathrooms, an opening skylight is ideal.
Electric units with rain sensors offer extra convenience and peace of mind. You can also consider glazing options with thermal coatings to reduce unwanted heat gain in summer and retain warmth in winter.
INTERIOR INTEGRATION
Think about how your skylight fits within the room’s interior. Clean lines, flush finishes, and coordinated trims all contribute to a seamless appearance. Some skylights can be paired with integrated LED lighting or smart home controls for added functionality.
PLANNING AND PREPARATION
Before any work begins, it’s important to consider the technical and legal aspects of your skylight 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. If the roof is pitched, they’ll examine how rafters will be affected by any structural changes.
If your home has an older roof, additional structural work may be required to meet current building standards. Your installer should check how the new opening can be reinforced with a lintel or support frame to preserve the strength of the existing structure. It’s also crucial to ensure insulation is maintained around the opening to avoid thermal bridging and heat loss.
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.
Even when planning permission is not required, building regulations still apply. These cover structural safety, thermal performance, and ventilation. A competent installer will be familiar with these standards and ensure the skylight is fitted accordingly.
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.
Asking for references from previous clients to gauge the quality of their work is a good idea, as is checking whether the installer belongs to a recognised trade body, such as TrustMark or FENSA, which can provide additional reassurance of workmanship and regulatory knowledge.
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. This may involve removing furniture or covering floors to reduce dust and disruption. On the roof, scaffolding or edge protection may be erected to provide safe access, especially for higher or complex locations.
– Cutting The Opening: The contractor will cut through the roof to match the size of the skylight, adjusting joists or rafters as necessary. On flat roofs, this includes the addition of a kerb or upstand if not already present. At this stage, internal ceilings may also be adjusted to accommodate the reveal.
For pitched roofs, cutting must follow structural guidelines to avoid weakening any load-bearing elements. A competent installer will use approved tools and methods to ensure a clean, safe aperture.
– 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.
This is one of the most critical parts of the process. Installers may use specialised waterproof membranes, upstands, or EPDM flashing kits depending on the roof surface. Flashing must integrate smoothly with surrounding materials to prevent any moisture ingress, particularly in areas prone to standing water or driving rain.
– Glazing The Unit: The glazed panel is installed, manually or with lifting equipment, depending on the size, and sealed around the edges. Some skylights use factory-sealed glazing units, while others require on-site sealing.
At this point, installers inspect for alignment and levelness to make sure the finished unit looks balanced from the inside and out.
– Internal Finishing: Internally, plastering, boxing, or trimming is completed. If the skylight is electric, wiring is connected at this stage.
If you’ve opted for electric rooflights or those with integrated rain sensors, the installer will connect and test all electrical components before completing the installation. For a polished look, some homeowners choose recessed LED lighting within the reveal or a tapered light well to draw in even more daylight.
A single-unit skylight installation is usually completed in a day, but larger or bespoke systems may take longer. Reliable contractors will follow detailed skylight installation instructions to ensure safety and durability.
In most cases, the work creates minimal disruption inside the home, although some dust and noise should be expected. Your installer should leave the area clean, tidy, and ready for any follow-up decoration or painting.
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.
Other elements that can affect price include the roof’s accessibility, the need for scaffolding, and whether additional structural support is required. If you’re installing in a loft conversion or existing extension, the installer may need to modify insulation or ventilation to meet building regulations.
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 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.
– Poor drainage around flat roof skylights can lead to pooling water. This is often solved by adjusting the upstand height and checking the fall direction during planning.
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, particularly on a flat or walk-on skylight. A soft brush, mild detergent, and warm water are usually sufficient for most glazing types. Avoid abrasive tools or harsh chemicals, especially on coated or self-cleaning glass, as these can reduce the effectiveness of protective layers.
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. Blocked drainage channels can increase the risk of leaks during heavy rainfall, so keeping these areas free of leaves and debris is a small but important task.
If your skylight allows a lot of sun in, fitting blinds or shades can help with light or thermal control. UV-protective window films are another option, particularly for rooms with valuable furnishings or artwork that could fade from prolonged sun exposure.
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 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.
