We’ve put together this handy guide to lantern roofs to help our customers understand why a lantern roof could be the perfect addition to their home.

What is a lantern roof?

Lantern roofs make a truly stunning addition to a home, drenching interiors in natural light whilst making a strong architectural statement. A lantern roof is a mainly glass structure, that sits on a flat roof, constructed of different panes of glass and built in a protruding pyramid-style shape.

Birds eye view of a new roof lantern.

Where can I have a lantern roof?

A lantern roof can be installed into an extension, a conservatory, the living room, dining room, bedroom or kitchen – and is equally beneficial for any of these living spaces. Not only is it stylish, but a lantern roof will make rooms appear brighter and more spacious.

Do I need planning permission for a lantern roof?

You do not normally need planning permission for lantern roofs. However, if in doubt, it is always advisable to check with your local Planning Authority. The other thing to be careful about is that there is a limit to how much glass is allowed in an individual structure, but this is unlikely to be a problem.

When you choose Emerald to install your lantern roof, we will take care of all of the above for you, so you can sit back and leave it all to our trusted team of experts.

What is the difference between a lantern roof and a sky light?

A skylight is a flat window set into the roof at the same angle as the roof. A lantern roof is fitted to a flat roof and projects above the roof, usually in the shape of a pyramid to let light in from all sides.

What are the benefits of a lantern roof?

In addition to aesthetics, a lantern roof will help to insulate against noise and the cold. Our range utilises high performance glazing, which helps to reduce heat loss and noise pollution. If your room needs a little more ventilation, you can opt for the addition roof vent that will let in fresh air – ideal for properties prone to damp and condensation.

  • Stylish addition to any room or property, whether more traditional or contemporary
  • Efficient glazing – easy to maintain, sound and weatherproof
  • Choose various sizes to suit your taste or requirements
  • Sleek appearance inside and out – and one that won’t diminish over time
  • Great alternative to a conservatory
  • Allows plenty of light to enter the room
  • Impressive finish to any extension
  • Suitable for flat roofs, orangeries and new build extensions

lantern roof- let the light in

What material can I have my lantern roof?

Our lantern roofs are supplied in a choice of uPVC or aluminium. No matter which material you choose we always guarantee superb quality that you can rely on. Attractive as well as effective, they will stay in pristine condition for years to come. With a wide assortment of colours, you never have to compromise on style. To find out what material would be best suited to your home, talk to our team today or find out more here.

What size lantern roof should I get?

Lantern roofs come in a variety of sizes and each one is individual to the project. You’ll need to think about the size of your room and what size would look best in your desired space. Our team are happy to advise and help you make the best decision for your lantern roof size.

Choose a lantern roof from Emerald

Upgrading your home with a lantern roof is a fantastic idea to bring in more light, and make your space feel even bigger, all whilst adding an architectural centre piece.

We hope this guide will help you to decide if a lantern roof is right for your home, however, if you require any further information, or for other home improvement enquiries, please feel free to get in touch. You can call us on 0800 612 4154 or send us an online message.

Areas we serve

Swindon-based family run double glazing installers

With a head office in Swindon, a short trip from the motorway, we are ideally located to offer our services across Wiltshire, Reading, Bath, Bristol, Marlborough, Berkshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and other surrounding locations.

Emerald provide and install home improvements in all materials – uPVC, aluminium and traditional timber. No matter what material you choose, you can be sure we’ll provide you consistent quality – our work is always finished to the highest standards, whether you’re installing 2 windows or 20!

Book a home visitView our showroom

What our customers are saying

We pride ourselves on the hundreds of customer reviews that we have collected over our many years of trading. Why not read some of our testimonials yourself, and see how our customers have rated their experience with our service.

See All Reviews

Replacing patio door with a window

Emerald windows were brilliant. The patio door was removed and replaced with a window. All work was carried out from bricking up the outside to plastering the inside. Great work...

Read full review

Lesley B

yell logo

Local Family Friendly Company

We worried about choosing a window company. We looked at all the usual national firms but we preferred the feel of a smaller local family run business as the rep...

Read full review

Stephanie C

yell logo

Very Pleased

Very pleased with the whole process from Mark letting us see and touch the product in the showroom in Swindon (many don't!), to a transparent price breakdown, no "buy now...

Read full review

Casey Collins

google logo

Highly Recommended

Highly recommend Emerald Windows and Doors; new Front and back doors fitted yesterday. Cannot praise Mark the Fitter enough, courteous, friendly and very helpful. Top job with attention to detail...

Read full review

Michelle Webb

facebook logo

Emerald Windows – A Quality Product

Emerald windows have just installed a new composite front door to our property. We are very pleased with the product and the installers were polite, professional and have carried out...

Read full review

Richard K

yell logo

Or click a platform below to leave a review:

FENSA logo consumer protection association (CPA) logo glass and glazing federation (GGF) logo GGP_INSTALLER_AWARDS_23_SHORTLISTED_LOGO bbsa logo