Roof lanterns, with their striking design and ability to flood spaces with natural light, have become an increasingly popular architectural feature in modern homes. But as homeowners become more environmentally conscious, a critical question often arises: Are roof lanterns energy efficient?

Let’s dive into the factors that determine how energy efficient roof lanterns are and how they can be a smart choice for your home.

What Are Roof Lanterns?

Before addressing their energy efficiency, it’s essential to understand what contemporary roof lanterns are. A roof lantern is a glass structure typically installed on a flat or pitched roof, creating a skylight effect. Unlike standard skylights, roof lanterns are often more elaborate, often adding more natural light and aesthetic appeal to a room.

The glazed structure’s pitched design can be manufactured in a variety of pane options, to suit spatial requirements and elevate rooms to new heights. Roof lanterns are particularly popular in flat roof extensions like kitchens or living rooms, filling rooms with ample natural light. A roof lantern’s design and ability to increase natural lighting has also health benefits such as enhancing mental wellbeing.

So, now that you have an understanding of what a roof lantern is, let’s explore the commonly asked question: are roof lanterns energy efficient?

The Energy Efficiency of Roof Lanterns

Roof lanterns offer enhanced energy performance, ultimately lowering a home’s energy bills. The energy efficiency in roof lanterns is primarily determined by three factors: glazing quality, frame material, and installation.

1. Glazing Quality

The type of glass used in a roof lantern or roof lights plays a significant role in its energy efficiency. Modern roof lanterns often feature double or triple glazing, which consists of two or three layers of glass with insulating gas-filled spaces between them. These layers help to reduce heat loss, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Low-E (Low Emissivity) glass is another feature commonly found in energy-efficient roof lanterns. This glass has a special coating that reflects heat back into the room during colder months and keeps excessive heat out during the summer, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. The type of glass is also chosen for maximum natural light, saving money on artificial lighting.

Most roof lanterns come with multiple glass options to suit your needs and maximise energy efficiency. To explore our range of energy efficient glass options, shop the range here.

2. Frame Material

The frame material is another crucial element that impacts energy efficiency. Roof lanterns are typically constructed using materials like aluminum, or uPVC.

• Aluminum frames are known for their strength and durability. They can be thermally broken, meaning they have a section that reduces heat transfer, making them more energy-efficient. For maximum energy efficiency, aluminium products are often the best choice.
• uPVC frames are also highly efficient and have the added benefits of being low-maintenance and cost-effective.

The choice of material will depend on the balance you want to achieve between reducing energy consumption, improving aesthetics, and low maintenance. You may also choose a particular frame material to allow more light into living spaces, reducing energy bills on lighting. You should also ensure you opt for a material that meets your budget requirements.

3. Installation Quality

Even the most advanced glazing and materials won’t perform well if the roof lantern is poorly installed. Proper installation is crucial to ensure there are weak points that lead to drafts, leaks, or heat loss. It’s vital to work with experienced professionals who understand the importance of a tight, secure fit.

At Lantern Superstore, we regularly update our useful help and guides page with all the resources needed to assist with every installation. From video demonstations to printable guides and FAQs- you should have everything you need for the perfect fit of our contemporary roof lanterns.

Maximizing A Roof Lanterns Energy Efficiency

To ensure your new roof lantern is as energy-efficient as possible, consider the following tips:

• Orientation: The placement of your roof lantern can influence its energy efficiency. A south-facing roof lantern will capture more sunlight, which can be beneficial in the winter but may require additional shading in the summer to prevent overheating. Finding a compromise between the two would bring the ideal amount of energy efficiency throughout all the seasons.
• Shading Solutions: Installing blinds or solar control glass can help manage the amount of sunlight and heat entering your home, particularly during the warmer months. You can explore our range of solar control glass options by viewing our product options here.
• Regular Maintenance: Keeping your roof lantern clean and in good repair will ensure that it continues to perform efficiently over time.

Benefits Beyond Energy Efficiency

While energy efficiency is a key consideration, it’s worth noting that roof lanterns offer other benefits as well. With a boost natural light in a room, they can reduce the need for artificial lighting, to help you save money on your electricity bills. Additionally, the natural daylight they provide can improve your home’s ambiance and even enhance your mood through your living spaces.

At Lantern Superstore, we offer the best roof windows on the market. Hand selected from the industry’s best manufacturer’s, our roof lanterns offer advanced thermal efficiency thanks to their quality aluminium profiles. We have an array of ready-made stock sizes available for super-fast deliveries in just 5-7 days, plus made-to-measure sizes also available. Check out the full range and their individual benefits by shopping the range today!

The Verdict

So, are roof lanterns energy efficient?

The answer is a resounding yes—when they are made with quality materials, fitted with advanced glazing, and installed correctly. Not only can they help reduce your energy consumption, but they also offer a host of other benefits that make them a valuable addition to any home. If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and efficiency to your living space, a roof lantern could be the perfect solution.

Ready to invest in a high performing, energy efficient roof lantern? Get in touch with the Lantern Superstore team today or send us a message using our enquiry form!