What are the Pros and Cons of Roof Lanterns?

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Last Updated on 25 October 2024 by Josh Lucas

Pros and Cons to consider when it comes to Roof Lanterns:

Increased light flow, improved aesthetics and better ventilation are just some of the pros to consider when you are looking to add a roof lantern to your home.

Roof lanterns have become increasingly popular in home improvement, offering an elegant and functional way to bring more light into your home. 

But like any home improvement feature, roof lanterns come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. 

This article will explore the pros and cons of roof lanterns, helping you decide whether they’re the right choice for your home.

In a rush and need information now? Jump ahead: 

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Pros of Roof Lanterns

Roof lanterns offer a range of benefits that can significantly enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. 

From brightening up your living spaces to adding a unique architectural element. Below, we explore the key advantages that roof lanterns bring to your home:

Increase in Natural Light

One of the most significant benefits of installing roof lanterns is the dramatic increase in natural light. These structures are designed to maximise sunlight, flooding your room with natural light during the day. 

This not only reduces your reliance on artificial lighting but can also positively impact your mood and well-being.

Solar Heating

In addition to bringing in more light, roof lanterns can contribute to passive solar heating. The increased sunlight entering your home can help warm up your space, particularly during the colder months. 

This can be a cost-effective way to reduce your heating bills while maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

GFD Homes Internal shot of an extension with an Atlas roof lantern beaming light into the space

Customisable Roof Lanterns

Another advantage is the level of customisation available. Atlas roof lanterns, for example, offer a variety of styles, sizes, and colours, allowing you to tailor the design to match your home’s aesthetic. Whether you prefer a modern or traditional look, there’s a roof lantern option that can meet your needs.

Improved Sense of Space

Roof lanterns can create an enhanced sense of space in a room. The influx of natural light combined with the architectural design of the lantern can make a room feel larger and more open. This is particularly beneficial in smaller rooms where you want to avoid a cramped atmosphere.

Improved Aesthetic Appeal

There’s no denying the visual impact of a well-designed roof lantern. They add a touch of luxury and sophistication to any home. Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s resale value or simply want to enjoy a more stylish living space, choosing a roof lantern can significantly enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal.

Better Ventilation

Many roof lanterns come with the option of opening windows or vents, which can improve ventilation in your home. This feature is particularly useful in kitchens or bathrooms where you want to reduce moisture and improve air circulation. 

GFD Homes An Atlas roof lantern creates a vibrant dinning space in a kitchen extension
Bring instant light to any space with the addition of a roof lantern

Cons of Roof Lanterns

While the benefits of roof lanterns are numerous, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before making your decision to ensure that you’re fully informed so you can choose the best option for your home. 

Fortunately, many of these concerns can be mitigated with careful planning and by choosing a high-quality product from a trusted provider, like the options we provide at GFD Homes.

Heat Loss in the Winter

While roof lanterns can contribute to solar heating, they can also lead to heat loss during the winter months. However, due to advancements in technology, our Atlas roof lanterns suffer from minimal heat loss in colder conditions, meaning you stay comfortable all year round. 

Vulnerable to the Outside Noise

You might be thinking “Are roof lanterns noisy in the rain?”

While a possible downside to roof lanterns can be their vulnerability to outside noise, modern double glazing minimises the amount of noise that can leak through into the home.  

Creating a soothing addition to any space, even in the heaviest of downpours. 

Cost and Maintenance

While it’s true that roof lanterns can represent a larger investment compared to standard windows, it’s important to view this as a long-term enhancement to your home.

The beauty and functionality that roof lanterns provide can significantly increase the value of your property, making it a worthwhile investment. 

Additionally, the cost of maintenance is often offset by the long-lasting durability of high-quality roof lanterns.

Ability to Clean

Cleaning a roof lantern might seem daunting at first, given its position on your roof. However, with the right approach and tools, it can be easily managed. 

Some roof lanterns, such as our Atlas Aluminium roof lanterns, come with self-cleaning glass options, which use the power of the sun and rain to break down dirt and wash it away. 

Even without this feature, regular maintenance is straightforward and doesn’t require professional intervention unless you prefer the convenience.

The Pros and Cons summarised

Roof lanterns offer numerous benefits, including increased natural light, improved aesthetics, and enhanced ventilation. 

However, they also come with potential downsides like heat loss, noise, and maintenance requirements. By carefully considering the pros and cons of roof lanterns, you can make an informed decision about whether this feature is the right fit for your home.

Whether you choose a customisable option like Atlas roof lanterns or another style, give our showroom team a call on 01642 309 576 for advice or to book an appointment!

FAQs About the Benefits and Drawbacks of Roof Lanterns

Are lantern roofs a good idea?

Lantern roofs can be an excellent addition to a home, especially if you’re looking to increase natural light and enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space. 

They can make a room feel larger, brighter, and more inviting. 

Roof lanterns can also positively affect your home’s value by enhancing its aesthetic appeal and adding a luxury feature that is attractive to potential buyers. However, the impact on value may vary depending on the quality of the installation and the overall design of your home.

For a deeper dive, check out our guide on choosing a roof lantern.

Are roof lanterns noisy when it rains?

Roof lanterns can amplify the sound of rain, making it more noticeable than with standard roofing materials. 

However with the quality of double glazing we offer on our roof lantern collections, you’ll feel more like you’re on a relaxing spa retreat than in the middle of a storm. 

Are roof lanterns prone to leaking?

Modern roof lanterns are designed with advanced sealing techniques to prevent leaks, but as with any window or roof installation, there is always a risk. 

All the roof lanterns available at GFD Homes are made with high quality aluminium, giving you the durability to withstand various weather conditions such as extreme temperatures, heavy rain, snow.

Proper installation and regular maintenance will also help mitigate any weather-related issues.

Do roof lanterns make the room cold?

Roof lanterns can contribute to heat loss, especially if they are not properly insulated.

 However, many contemporary designs feature advanced glazing options that reduce heat loss and help keep the room warm. 

If you’re concerned about insulation, worry no more because our roof lantern collections come with double glazing as standard. 

Still have Q’s that need A’s? Why not check out some of our other articles…..

author avatar
Josh Lucas
As a member of the GFD Homes' friendly neighbourhood marketing team, I’m here to spin web-slinging words that make home improvement easy and fun—no superpowers required! From tips to product insights, we've got all your home improvement needs covered, one blog at a time (without hanging upside down, promise!).
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