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1. What sizes are the roof lanterns available in?
We can manufacture to any plan size but standard sizes are more economic.
2. Who will install the roof lantern?
As far as the preparation work is concerned below the roof lantern (whether it be an exisiting roof or a new roof) this can be done by any competent builder. It will be necessary to create the necessary aperture (strengthening if necessary), create an upstand/kerb for the roof lantern to sit on, lining out the aperture as appropriate and making sure that the roof surface material is carried up the outside of the upstand/kerb correctly.
As far as the actual installation of the lantern is concerned there is no reason why this cannot be done by a competent carpenter or practical individual. Having said this we do offer an installation service for those that prefer it. This may be especially applicable for larger roof lanterns.
3. White powder coated aluminium glazing cappings or painted timber?
For the majority of applications we recommend the white aluminium glazing cappings which have a neat moulded section and are maintenance free. These we supply as standard unless requested otherwise. Should you however, prefer a slightly more traditional glazing capping then painted timber cappings are available at no extra cost. Just let us know.
4. What size roof lantern should I have?
This is a rather subjective question depending on usage of the area below, personal preference, amount of light required etc. It is surprising the amount of light even a 3' x 3' roof lantern will let in. From our own experience we have found that a roof lantern 6' x 4' in size gives an excellent area of light and the feeling of space for a medium sized room.
Remember that the upstand/kerb on which the roof lantern sits needs to leave adequate clearance all round for general maintenance purposes of the roof. Ideally 300mm minimum clearance is required although you might get away with a bit less.
5. What dimensions should the roof lantern supporting upstand/kerb be?
Where are the roof lantern measurements taken from?
The measurements for the roof lantern are taken at the external face of the supporting timber upstand/kerb. This allows us to construct the lantern cill with the correct overhang for weathering purposes. The actual thickness (in plan) of the support timber upstand/kerb only need to be 50mm plus whatever
felt, asphalt etc is needed for the outside and perhaps plasterboard with a finish on the inside. This is perfectly adequate for a small to medium sized lantern; for larger roof lanterns100mm thick (or larger, depending on insulation etc) upstand is more suitable.
Ideally the top of the upstand/kerb (bottom of the roof lantern cill) is a minimum of 150mm above the finished roof surface.
6. What about ventilation?
It is well worthwhile considering whether ventilation is required. Consider whether the space below is south facing, whether it has opening windows, is it perhaps an area such as a kitchen?
There are three options for ventilation:
Trickle vents
These are available in powder coated aluminium and allow a small amount of air movement.
Top hung opening sashes
These are available if the roof lantern has side lights. They can be opened either manually (with a pole) or by electric motor and switch with or without various automatic control options.
Opening skylights
If the roof does not have side lights it is possible to ventilate using powder coated aluminium top hung skylights. Aesthetically, skylights do break up the purity of line to some extent. This is more noticeable on small roof lanterns since the frame of the skylight does take some of the light. Having said that the particular design we use works very well and is fully storm proof. Either manual or electric operation is available.
7. Roof lantern maintenance. How often will I have to paint it?
The microporous painting system that we use is a far cry from traditional painting systems and has extremely good durability. It is unlikely that you will have to repaint for many years (even in exposed climates) and then all that should be needed will be a light sanding down and the application of anoher good coat of microporous paint. Powder coated aluminium glazing cappings make the roof section virtually maintenance free.
Please download our FAQ pdf below.
