How to Choose the Right Roof Lantern

You will of course need to have a large portion of the roof removed to accommodate the roof lantern. If the question is related to structural changes, it is possible that the roof around the roof lantern will need to be bolstered in order to ensure the weight of the roof lantern does not cause problems. An experienced contractor will understand exactly how to do that.

As a general rule, it is recommended that a roof lantern should occupy about 20% of the ceiling area in the room where it is installed. Any larger than that, and the roof lantern will likely produce a proportional disconnect that undermines instead of enhancing your home's curb appeal. If the roof lantern is significantly smaller, it may look out of place.

If you have the roof lantern professionally installed and you take the time to perform some basic maintenance, the roof lantern should last 20 to 30 years. In some cases, more. Homeowners who perform a DIY installation are likely to see that lifespan significantly reduced.

UV light is always a concern, but happily there are a couple of common-sense things you can do to prevent ultraviolet light from wreaking havoc on your furnishings. The first is to have UV filters installed on the roof lantern window panes. The other is to install blinds that can be closed during periods when the sunlight is most intense.

Modern roof lanterns are available with double and triple-glazed windows and insulated or thermally broken frames that will prevent nearly all heat loss during the winter, as well as preventing heat penetration during the summer.

Roof lanterns are designed to be installed on flat or low-pitch roofs. If you want to install some type of roof window on a pitched roof, skylights are a much better choice.

Roof lanterns are available in both fixed and opening variations. Roof lanterns that open will significantly enhance the ventilation throughout your home, making it drier and more comfortable and likely enabling you to save money on air conditioning.