Skylight Conservatories

South Lakes Windows can incorporate the Ultraframe UltraSKY Flat Skylight into suitable conservatory and extension projects. The UltraSKY Flat Skylight provides a low-profile area of roof glazing that can be fitted within a suitable flat roof structure. Unlike a roof lantern, it does not rise significantly above the surrounding roof.

This makes it an option for homeowners who want overhead glass without adding a prominent raised feature to the roofline. Internally, the skylight creates a clear area of glazing within the ceiling. The surrounding solid roof can then accommodate lighting and provide the more enclosed appearance associated with a conventional room.

Its simple design can work particularly well with modern conservatories and glazed extensions, although the wider choice of windows, doors, colours and finishes will determine how the finished structure relates to the existing property.

Natural light is one of the main reasons for incorporating a skylight into a conservatory roof. Windows and glazed doors introduce light from the sides of a room, but this light has to travel further as the conservatory becomes deeper. Roof glazing introduces daylight directly from above.

This can be useful for a conservatory that extends from an existing kitchen or dining room. Without overhead glazing, the addition of a new room can reduce the amount of daylight reaching the original windows and openings. The position of a skylight can therefore be considered alongside the complete room layout.

Orientation is also important. A south-facing roof may receive strong direct sunlight at certain times of day, while north-facing roof glazing generally receives less direct sun. Nearby buildings, trees and the shape of the existing house can also affect light levels.

South Lakes Windows will consider these factors during the design process to determine an appropriate position and size for the roof glazing.

Both skylights and roof lanterns introduce daylight through a solid roof, but they create noticeably different results.

A skylight sits relatively close to the roof surface. This creates a lower and simpler external profile and can suit homes where homeowners do not want a raised glazed structure above the conservatory. A roof lantern rises above the surrounding roof. Its angled glazed sides create additional internal height and make the roof itself a stronger architectural feature. South Lakes Windows can supply the UltraSKY Lantern for suitable projects where this type of design is preferred.

The choice depends on the appearance of the property, available roof height, room dimensions and the amount of overhead glazing required.

For properties with first-floor windows, low eaves or other height restrictions, the lower profile of a flat skylight may also provide an advantage.

A skylight conservatory can provide a useful balance between a traditional conservatory and a solid-roofed extension. The windows and glazed doors maintain broad garden views, while the solid sections of the roof create a defined internal ceiling.

This can make the space suitable for use as a dining room, family room, sitting area, home office or kitchen extension. Internal lighting can be positioned within the solid ceiling, providing greater control over lighting after dark. The amount of overhead glazing can also be planned around the intended use of the room. Rather than having sunlight entering through the entire roof, glass can be concentrated in selected areas.

Large windows and doors can then provide the main connection with the garden.

The result is a conservatory that retains plenty of glazing without relying on a completely transparent roof.

A modern skylight conservatory can combine insulated solid roof sections with energy efficient roof glass, windows and doors. Reducing the proportion of glass within the roof can help limit heat transfer compared with older conservatories that use basic glazing or polycarbonate across the complete roof.

Modern roof glazing can also incorporate coatings intended to control the amount of solar energy entering through the glass. The windows and doors need equal consideration. Modern double glazing, suitable frame systems and effective weather seals all contribute to the thermal performance of the room.

Ventilation should also form part of the design. Opening windows provide controlled airflow, while French doors, bi-folding doors or sliding doors can create much larger openings during warmer weather. The roof, glazing, windows, doors, floor and orientation should therefore be planned together.

A skylight roof can be combined with several different window and door styles. UPVC windows provide a popular choice and can be specified with opening and fixed sections. Aluminium can provide slimmer frames where larger areas of glass are required. Timber may also be considered for properties where a more traditional frame material is preferred.

The choice of doors can change how the room connects with the garden.

French doors provide a traditional paired opening and can suit cottages, period properties and more conventional conservatory designs. Bi-folding doors can open a much larger part of the elevation, making them well suited to conservatories adjoining patios and outdoor seating areas.

Sliding doors provide large glazed panels without requiring the doors to swing into the room or garden. Lift and slide or triple track arrangements can also be considered for larger openings where suitable. South Lakes Windows can plan the windows, doors and roof glazing as part of the same design.

Skylights can be considered when designing a new conservatory, but they may also form part of a larger conservatory upgrade.

An older conservatory with a polycarbonate or glass roof may benefit from replacement with an insulated solid roof incorporating selected areas of glazing. The existing structure must be assessed before this type of work takes place. Frames, structural supports and other parts of the conservatory need to be suitable for the proposed replacement roof.

A roof upgrade can also provide an opportunity to review the windows and doors. Older double glazing, worn seals or dated door systems may be worth replacing at the same time. South Lakes Windows can survey the complete conservatory and advise on the available options.

Planning permission and Building Regulations requirements depend on the property and the work being carried out.

Some new conservatories may fall within permitted development rights, while other projects require planning permission. Changing an existing glazed conservatory roof to a substantially solid structure can also affect the requirements that apply. Listed buildings and properties within conservation areas may be subject to additional restrictions. This is particularly relevant throughout parts of Cumbria, the Lake District, North Lancashire and adjoining Yorkshire.

The roof height, drainage, structural support and relationship with the existing house also need to be considered.

South Lakes Windows will assess the proposed project before the final design and specification are agreed.