The Key Differences Between Bespoke Roof Lanterns & Skylights

We have put together a blog explaining the key differences between the two architectural elements.

Here at Aliwood, we’re often approached by potential customers asking what the differences between bespoke roof lanterns and skylights are. From shape to design, pricings to size, there’s a vast array of differences between them. While we may be biased here at Aliwood, we believe that timber roof lanterns offer that little bit extra when compared with skylights.

Shape & Size

Bespoke roof lanterns tend to come in a wider array of shapes than their skylight counterparts. Aliwood, for example, offers square, rectangular and even octagonal roof lanterns. Skylights, by comparison, tend to usually be only rectangular in shape. When it comes to size, both types of window come with a lot of variety. The biggest of our rectangular roof lanterns come in at a whopping 3 x 5.5 metres – it’s most definitely a statement piece! Skylights come in sizes comparable to that of our bespoke roof lanterns. Though it must be noted that companies who produce the larger ones are more difficult to come by.

Roof Type

One of the most crucial distinctions between roof lanterns and skylights is the roofs on which they’re installed. Skylights can be installed on any sloped roof, and as such are fantastic for loft conversions to allow for maximum light. If you’ve ever been inside a revamped, semi-detached property and looked at the loft, the chances are there will be a couple of VELUX skylights on either side. However, timber roof lanterns can only be installed on flat roofs, making them great for conservatories, renovations and extensions.

Materials

Whereas skylights tend to be made of UPVC or aluminium, roof lanterns often have a more bespoke and refined feel due to their timber composition. Timber roof lanterns are also much more customisable. This variability is apparent in many ways; the option for ventilation, the different paint colours available, the choice of different glazing options. If you want to create a bespoke roof lantern, the options are all there should you want them. This helps give our roof lanterns their bespoke feel. Also, our roof lanterns are also usually more sustainable than skylights are – for example, we only use sustainably-sourced, fast-growing timber in the production of our bespoke roof lanterns.

Overall Appearance

Now, this is one we’re often asked about. Customers come to us and often utter the words ‘Well, aren’t they the same thing?’ – No, actually, they’re quite different! Skylights tend to sit very low and close to the property’s roof, meaning it doesn’t have much of an external view. It’s somewhat hidden away. By contrast, timber roof lanterns are designed to be seen as well as to let light in. They’re beautiful pieces of design, in every sense of the word. Bespoke roof lanterns suit more stately properties, and more traditional rural homes better than skylights tend to.

Skylights certainly have their place as daylighting installations, there’s no doubt about that. However, when compared with timber roof lanterns, they simply don’t compare. So, if you would like to find out more about Aliwood’s bespoke roof lanterns, then get in touch today! Call us on 01245 967107 for a friendly chat with one of our team.