10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Rooflights

Rooflights are a great way to bring light into dingy spaces, enhance the ventilation of a home, improve its energy efficiency, enhance its curb appeal and increase its value. But rooflight installations must be handled with care in order to avoid issues down the line. In this post, we look at 10 common mistakes to avoid when installing rooflights.

Mistake #1: Choosing the wrong rooflight

Not all rooflights are right for all roof types. Installing the wrong type of rooflight can lead to problems down the road. 

Mistake #2: Choosing the wrong size rooflight

If the rooflight is too small it won't deliver as much light as you want. If it's too big it may create structural problems with the roof. 

Mistake #3: Failing to add structural support

The roof surrounding the rooflight may need to be reinforced during installation. Failing to do so can cause the roof to weaken and sag, or perhaps even collapse.

Mistake #4: Installing the rooflight in the wrong place

Examples of "wrong" placements include installing the rooflight in a place that allows more direct sunlight than you wanted, or that is blocked by nearby trees during the day.

Mistake #5: Not sealing it properly

If you use an inexperienced installer they may not seal around the edge of the rooflight properly and this can allow water leakage that leads to expensive repairs and heat loss.

Mistake #6: Ignoring energy efficiency

Not all rooflights are equally energy efficient. Discount rooflights in particular often come up short in this department. Make sure you choose rooflights with double or triple-pane glazing.

Mistake #7: Forgetting about ventilation

Rooflights that open can greatly increase your home's ventilation. If this is something that appeals to you don't forget to choose a rooflight with manual or automatic opening.

Mistake #8: Installing the wrong flashing

Flashing is there to prevent water from leaking in around the rooflight. If the flashing is not installed correctly or is missing entirely it is almost guaranteed you will have leakage problems.

Mistake #9: Failing to obtain planning permission

In some cases, planning permission will be required to install a rooflight. If you ignore this the local authority can impose significant sanctions.

Mistake # 10: Installing the rooflight yourself

Unless you have extensive personal experience working on roofs you should leave rooflight installation to the professionals.

Have Questions? Contact RLRL

If you have questions regarding installation of any of our rooflights give us a call on 020 8087 2004.

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