If you’re planning to bring more natural light into your home, you’ve likely come across two popular options: rooflights and roof lanterns. Both are excellent choices for flat roof extensions, kitchens, and orangeries, but they create different looks and results.

So, which is right for your project?

We will compare the two and answer some of the most common questions, such as does a roof lantern let in more light and how do you choose the right product for flat roof designs?

What are rooflights for flat roofs?

Rooflights for flat roofs are typically flat, fixed glazed units that sit flush (or near-flush) with the roofline. They are sleek, minimalist, and designed to maximise light without altering the overall roof shape.

Key features:

Flat glass design
Clean, contemporary appearance
Often frameless internally
Excellent thermal performance
Ideal for modern extensions

A rooflight for flat roof applications is perfect if you want a subtle architectural feature that doesn’t dominate the space. Because they sit low-profile, they’re also ideal for properties where planning restrictions may limit structural changes. They are best for contemporary kitchens, rear extensions, garden rooms, and spaces where you want unlimited sky views

What is a roof lantern?

A roof lantern, sometimes called a lantern roof, is a raised, glass structure set within a flat roof to let light into the room below. It has panes of glass set into an aluminium or PVCu frame, which adds height and architectural interest.

Key features:

Pitched, elevated design
Strong visual impact
Traditional or contemporary styling options
Creates a sense of volume and height

Roof lanterns are often chosen to make a statement and add grandeur to a room, and are best for orangeries, period style homes, large extensions and rooms needing extra ceiling height impact.

Does a roof lantern let in more light?

This is one of the most common questions we get asked. The answer is ‘not necessarily’.

While a roof lantern sits higher and has multiple glazed panels, a flat rooflight often allows just as much, and sometimes more, usable daylight into the room. This is because flat rooflights usually have larger uninterrupted panes of glass and maximise sky visibility. Lanterns include framing bars and ridge sections that slightly reduce total glazing area.

However, roof lanterns can make a room feel brighter because they add height and dimension, with light entering from multiple angles, and with their elevated structure, they draw the eye upward.

So basically, both products flood a room with daylight, the difference is more about the style and room feel rather than just light levels. This Ideal Home article will give you some design ideas to get excited about.

Which product suits your space?

Choose a rooflight if:

You want a sleek, contemporary finish
You prefer a minimalist ceiling line
You’re working with a low roof pitch
You want maximum glass with minimal frame

Choose a roof lantern if:

You want to create a statement feature
Your extension has higher ceilings
You love the look of a traditional orangery
You want to add architectural character

Need expert advice?

Choosing between a rooflight and a roof lantern doesn’t have to be complicated. The team at Bedfordshire Windows can help you decide which option will transform your space beautifully.

Get in touch today to discuss your project and discover how to bring more natural light into your home.

Take a look at our TrustATrader page and see over 700 reviews from satisfied customers!

Rooflights vs roof lanterns: which suits your space?