Natural light has the power to transform a home. It can make rooms feel bigger, brighter, and more inviting, while also boosting mood and even helping to reduce energy use during the day. If you’re planning a home renovation or extension, you may already be considering adding glazing to the roof, and that usually means choosing between rooflights and roof lanterns.

But which one is better for letting in light? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let’s take a closer look at both options, explore how they perform, and help you decide which is best for your space.

Understanding Rooflights and Roof Lanterns

Before comparing how much light they let in, let us explain what each product actually is.

Rooflights

Rooflights are flat or slightly pitched glass panels fitted directly into the roof. They sit almost flush with the roofline and offer a clean, modern look. Because they are flat, they provide a simple way to bring natural light into rooms directly below, especially popular for extensions, kitchens, and loft conversions.

Roof Lanterns

Roof lanterns are raised, pitched glazed structures that sit on top of a flat roof. They often have multiple panes of glass joined with slim bars, creating a striking architectural feature that draws the eye upward. They are most commonly used in orangeries, kitchen-diners, and open-plan living spaces where they become a true focal point.

Which Lets in More Light?

When it comes to pure light output, roof lanterns generally let in more light than rooflights, and here’s why.

The Shape

Because roof lanterns are pitched and raised above the roofline, they can capture light from multiple angles throughout the day, even when the sun is lower in the sky. This means the room benefits from more consistent daylight from morning until evening.

Rooflights, being flat, are excellent for bringing in overhead light when the sun is high but may allow less light into the space at certain times of the day, particularly early morning or late afternoon when sunlight is at a lower angle.

More Surface Area

Roof lanterns typically cover a larger surface area than a single rooflight. Even when they are similar in footprint, the angled design increases the total glass area, meaning more daylight can enter the room.

A Greater Sense of Height and Space

While not strictly about light levels, roof lanterns add height to a room. The pitched shape draws the eye upward, which can make a space feel much larger and more open, another reason homeowners love them.

Other Considerations Beyond Light

Of course, the decision isn’t only about which one lets in more light. There are other practical and aesthetic factors to consider.

Style and Appearance

• Rooflights are perfect if you want a minimal, contemporary look. They sit flat and don’t disrupt the roofline, which is great if you’re looking for a subtle solution.
• Roof lanterns are ideal if you want a statement feature. They add character and can become the centrepiece of a room, making them especially popular in kitchen extensions or orangeries.

Planning Permission and Roofline

Because roof lanterns project above the roofline, you may need to consider local planning rules, especially if your home is in a conservation area or you’re working with a listed property. Rooflights, being flush, are less likely to require additional permissions.

Installation and Space

Rooflights can often be easier and quicker to install, particularly in smaller spaces. Roof lanterns usually require a larger opening and more structural support, making them better suited for larger projects.

Energy Efficiency

Both rooflights and roof lanterns are available in energy-efficient double and triple-glazed options. Modern designs include thermal breaks and low U-values to keep heat inside during winter and prevent overheating in summer.

Ventilation Options

If ventilation is important, for example, in a kitchen where you want to release steam and cooking smells, both options can be specified with opening mechanisms. Manual and electric options are available, though roof lantern openings tend to be motorised due to their size and height.

When to Choose a Rooflight

A rooflight might be the better choice if:

• You have a smaller space and want to maximise headroom.
• You’re looking for a sleek, low-profile design that blends with the roofline.
• Planning permission restrictions limit projecting structures.
• You want a cost-effective way to add natural light without major structural changes.

When to Choose a Roof Lantern

A roof lantern could be the better choice if:

• You want to make a bold statement and add an architectural feature.
• Your room is large and could benefit from extra height and drama.
• You want to bring in as much light as possible throughout the day.
• You’re creating an orangery, large kitchen-diner, or open-plan living space.

Striking the Right Balance

It’s worth noting that the choice doesn’t always have to be either/or. Some projects combine both, for example, using a roof lantern over a main seating or dining area and flat rooflights in adjoining spaces like hallways or utility rooms. This can help create a balance of light and style across the home.

Final Thoughts

So, are roof lanterns better than rooflights for letting light in? In many cases, yes, roof lanterns do let in more light overall thanks to their angled design and increased glass area. They also add height and a sense of grandeur, which can dramatically transform a room.

However, rooflights are still an excellent option, particularly if you want a more understated look, need to work within planning restrictions, or are working with a smaller space.

Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your room layout, design preferences, and budget, but either option will transform a dark space into one filled with natural daylight. And that’s something every homeowner can fall in love with.

At Lantern Superstore we offer a range of both roof lanterns and roof lights, in a range of sizes, allowing you to let in the perfect amount of light for your home. Interested in getting one for yourself? Speak to our team on sales@lanternsuperstore.co.uk today!