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DIY vs. Professional Installation: What You Need to Know Before Fitting a Rooflight

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DIY vs. Professional Installation: What You Need to Know Before Fitting a Rooflight

Installing a rooflight might sound like a brilliant weekend project—after all, how hard can it be to cut a hole in your roof and plop in some glass, right? Wrong (unless you fancy a surprise indoor waterfall the next time it rains). Before you grab your ladder and a hammer, let’s break down the pros, cons, and big differences between DIY and professional installation.

Because while the dream is more natural light, the nightmare is a leak above your bed.

DIY Rooflight Installation: The Brave (and Budget-Friendly) Approach

 Pros:

  • Cost savings: No labour fees = more budget for fancy blinds or wine.

  • Full control: Choose your materials, timing, and method (even if it’s trial and error).

  • Satisfying sense of achievement: Nothing beats standing back and saying, “I did that.”

 Cons:

  • Risk of leaks: One wrong angle or a poorly sealed frame = a soggy situation.

  • Building regs confusion: You’ll need to follow specific regulations for structural changes and ventilation—easy to miss if you're not familiar.

  • No warranty: If it goes wrong, it’s all on you (and possibly your insurance).

  • Time-consuming: It’s not a quick job—especially if you’re YouTubing every step.

Best for:

Professional Rooflight Installation: The Safe and Smooth Option

Pros:

  • Expertise on tap: Pros know how to avoid hidden issues like weak joists, awkward slopes, or tricky waterproofing.

  • Building regs? Sorted.: Many installers will ensure compliance, saving you paperwork headaches.

  • Speed and precision: What could take you a week may take them a day.

  • Warranties and peace of mind: Many offer guarantees on parts and labour.

Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost: Labour adds to your budget, but you’re paying for peace of mind.

  • Less hands-on: If you love the DIY process, handing over control might sting a little.

 Best for:

  • Pitched roof installations

  • Large or heavy rooflights (especially opening ones)

  • Homes with insulation, ventilation, or structural considerations

  • Anyone who doesn’t want to risk slicing through their ceiling joists

Key Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Decide:

  1. What type of rooflight are you installing?
    Fixed, opening, walk-on, or lantern? Complexity increases with features.

  2. Is your roof flat or pitched?
    Pitched roofs usually require more skill to install correctly (and waterproof properly).

  3. Do you need planning permission or Building Regs approval?
    If you're unsure, it’s safest to speak to a pro.

  4. What’s your skill level?
    Be honest. Have you installed one before—or are you confusing a hammer with a mallet?

  5. Is this your main home or a garden shed?
    Risk tolerance should vary depending on the structure and how often you’ll be under it.

Final Verdict

If you’re experienced, confident, and working with a simple roof, DIY might be a fun and rewarding route—just don’t skip the waterproofing! But for most homes, particularly with structural work or large rooflights involved, a professional install is worth its weight in daylight.

Because a rooflight should brighten your home—not your stress levels.

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  • Josh Hartim