Whether you’re planning a home extension, kitchen renovation, or loft conversion, bringing more natural light into your home is one of the best investments you can make. Two popular options for brightening up your living space from above are roof lanterns and skylights, but what’s the difference? And more importantly, which one is right for your home?
In this blog, we’ll explore the key features, benefits, design styles, and installation considerations of roof lanterns vs skylights, so you can make the best choice for your next project.
What’s the Difference Between a Roof Lantern and a Skylight?
While both let natural light flood into your home through the roof, roof lanterns and skylights have some important differences:
Roof Lanterns
Feature a raised, pitched frame (often pyramid or rectangular shape)
Installed on flat roofs (commonly on extensions or orangeries)
Act as an architectural centrepiece, often more decorative
Provide maximum light thanks to multiple angled panes
Typically aluminium framed for a modern look
Usually flat or slightly domed glass panels
Installed in pitched roofs (ideal for lofts, stairwells, bathrooms)
Sit flush or slightly above the roofline
Offer a minimalist look with clean lines
Available in fixed or opening options for ventilation
| Feature | Roof Lantern | Skylight |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Raised, pitched, feature glazing | Flush, flat, discreet |
| Roof Type | Best for flat roofs | Best for pitched roofs |
| Light Output | Exceptional (multi-angle entry) | Very good (direct overhead) |
| Ventilation | Optional openings available | Venting models widely available |
| Best Used In | Kitchens, extensions, orangeries | Lofts, stairwells, bathrooms |
| Aesthetic Impact | Grand, architectural | Modern, understated |
| Installation | Structural upstand required | Simpler retrofit possible |
Installing a roof lantern can completely transform the atmosphere of a space, especially in open-plan kitchens or flat-roof extensions. Here’s why homeowners in the West Midlands are loving this option:
Floods space with natural light even in deep-plan rooms
Creates a stunning ceiling feature
Improves ventilation with optional opening vents
Increases home value by adding architectural interest
Ideal for orangery-style builds, garden rooms, and home offices
At GL Glazing, we offer high-performance aluminium roof lanterns in a variety of colours and finishes, with thermally broken frames and self-cleaning glass options to reduce maintenance.
Why Choose Skylights?
Skylights are a sleek and practical solution for increasing daylight in hard-to-reach or overlooked areas of your home. They’re especially effective when:
Retrofitting into pitched roofs (e.g. in lofts, staircases, hallways)
Adding ventilation to steamy spaces like bathrooms or kitchens
Maintaining a minimalist or modern aesthetic
On a tighter budget (generally more affordable to install than roof lanterns)
We supply and install top-quality skylights with low U-values, noise-reduction glass, and solar control coatings, making them energy-efficient and comfortable all year round.
Choosing the Right Glazed Rooflight for Your Home
When deciding between a skylight and a roof lantern, consider the following:
1. Your Roof Type
Flat roof? Go for a roof lantern
Pitched roof? Choose a skylight
2. Design Goals
Want a show-stopping feature in your extension? Roof lantern.
Want subtle daylight in a loft or stairwell? Skylight.
3. Room Function
Kitchens and dining areas benefit from lanterns that deliver visual impact and all-day sun.
Bathrooms and attics benefit from discreet, moisture-resistant skylights.
4. Budget
Skylights are typically cheaper and easier to install.
Roof lanterns require a larger investment but offer more dramatic results.
Roof Lantern & Skylight Installation in the West Midlands
At GL Glazing & Window Services, we specialise in the design, supply, and installation of both modern roof lanterns and stylish skylights throughout Oldbury, Smethwick, Kidderminster, and surrounding areas.
Here’s what sets our service apart:
Fully tailored design and installation
Free home survey and expert advice
Secure, energy-efficient glazing systems
Self-cleaning, solar control, and triple-glazing options available
Local, friendly team with glowing reviews
Performance Benefits
Adding roof lanterns or skylights doesn’t just improve aesthetics, it improves energy efficiency, thermal insulation, and home value. With modern glazing systems and airtight seals, your new installation can:
Lower your energy bills
Increase your EPC rating
Attract more interest if you’re selling or letting
Let’s Brighten Up Your Home
Whether you’re leaning toward a flush skylight or a statement-making roof lantern, we’ll help you make the right choice for your space, budget, and goals.
Ready to get started?
Contact GL Glazing & Window Services today for a free quote and home consultation.
Roof lanterns and skylights are both brilliant ways to bring more daylight into your home, but the right choice depends on your roof, space, and style. At GL Glazing, we’ll help you find the perfect solution that delivers light, beauty, and energy savings for years to come.
Let us help you let the light in beautifully and professionally.
