Adding a Flat Roof Light to your home or commercial property can transform your space, flooding a room with natural light to create a brighter, more inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to enhance an existing room or installing a roof light as part of a new build, fitting it correctly is crucial to ensure both functionality and longevity. In this blog, we’ll take you through the process of how to fit a flat roof light in an easy step-by-step solution.

Before You Get Started

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials needed for the process:

• Roof light unit (pre-measured to fit your space)
• Tape measure
• Pencil or marker
• Pre-built timber upstand (measured to the installation guidelines of your roof light)
• Drill and screws
• Sealant and waterproofing membrane – we recommend DOW 791 & 895
• Safety equipment – gloves & safety goggles

It’s important to ensure a good fit, that your builder’s upstand has been correctly measured for your specific rooflight. You should check your manufacturer’s guidelines and installation requirements before fitting the rooflight, to avoid any issues.

At Lantern Superstore, the guidelines may differ depending on which rooflight you have ordered. This guide uses the Sovu Flat Rooflight as an example for skylight installation.

Our Step-By-Step Guide

Every rooflight can differ, so it’s important to explore the technical details provided to you by your manufacturer. You can explore our help and guides page here, if you have ordered your flat roof light or frameless rooflight from us. It’s also important that you have checked your local building regulations before installation, to ensure the glass unit is allowed on your property. However, most rooflights or roof windows have a smooth installation process using the following steps of how to fit a flat roof light.

Step 1: Check the Opening

Check that your upstand has been installed securely, tightening any screws and inspecting the sealant to ensure there are no gaps. There should also be a minimum pitch of 5 degrees, which ensures efficient water-run off and avoid water pooling on the glass. Also, refer to your manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the measurements of the kerb/upstand meet the required criteria.

Step 2: Apply Silicone

Step 3 : Position the Rooflight

The next step is to place the roof light onto the upstand onto the prepared opening. For larger rooflights, this may require two people, as the materials and the glass can be heavy.

Step 4 : Secure in Place

Pre-drill fixing holes through the aluminium and kerb/upstand. These should be 100mm from each corner, then at regular intervals. You should then use suitable fixing screws, with cover caps and horse shoe packers all the way around to secure the frame in place.

Step 5 : Optional Drainage Detail

The last step is optional, but can encourage further drainage, for long-lasting performance. For this step, space drainage caps on the outer face at 150mm from corners and approximately 450mm centres. Offset slots should be 75mm.

Final Checks

Once your successful installation is complete, inspect the roof light for any gaps, leaks or loose fittings. Test it under different weather conditions to ensure it is properly sealed. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and checking for sealant wear, will prolong the lifespan of your flat roof light.

Fitting a Flat Roof Light

Fitting a flat roof light can be a surprisingly easy process, even without professional experience. By ensuring you have the right tools at hand and follow the correct steps, you can quickly fit the glass structure for an instant improvement to your property.

However, if you’re unsure or working with a more complex roof structure or large glass panes, consulting a professional is always a good idea. A properly installed roof light not only enhances the aesthetics of your space but also improves ventilation and energy efficiency.

Where Can I Order a Flat Roof Light?

Looking for high-quality flat rooflights that offer superior performance, natural light and sleek looks?

At Lantern Superstore, we have an extensive range of products from a range of industry-leading manufacturers, all based in the UK. With our super-fast deliveries and fantastic customer support, you can quickly and efficiently transform your space. Each roof window is fitted with toughened or laminated glass units for robust performance and excellent safety.

Explore our online shop today and browse our fantastic range of premium Flat Rooflights. Plus, why not discover our diverse range of roof lanterns here!