EXTENDING POTENTIAL

Tracey Jackson, business development manager for Howells Patent Glazing discusses home extensions and why glazed roof products are a portfolio-must-have for those wishing to make the most of these opportunities.

Extensions remain a popular choice for renovators whether it’s to the rear or to the side, single or two storeys, or up into the loft.  Increasing the square footage adds value, but it is also a great way to enhance the property and living space within. 

A successful extension will bring in more natural light, provide extra living space, improve flow, and often open up the house to the garden.  Glazed products are central to achieving this, rooflights, roof lanterns, lightwells and patent glazing all maximise light during daylight hours. 

Whether atop a single storey extension or nestled in the roof above a loft conversion, these glass roof products offer exceptional light levels which contribute to a healthier and more energy conscious home.  They are proven to deliver up to three times more daylight that a vertical window. 

Energy Savings

While fundamental to the function of an extension or loft conversion, glazed roof products also meet modern consumer demands.  Currently, reducing energy costs is a big motivator for home improvers. 

According to the 2023 annual UK Houzz & Home Study of more than 2,500 UK respondents, “Homeowners are committed to their current homes, and we continue to see investment that help spaces to function better for the long term,” said Liza Hausman, vice president of Industry Marketing at Houzz.  “We’re also seeing an increased focus on efficiency, with homeowners making upgrades that will conserve energy and keep associated costs down.” 

Glazed roof products can help with this.  Allowing natural light to pour into the space below and lighting areas out of reach of vertical windows, they reduce dependency on electric lighting thereby cutting associated energy costs.

Choosing a slim aluminium frame also helps as it lets in more light.  The use of thermally broken aluminium bar also significantly reduces heat transfer and stops cold bridging which adds to the thermal efficiency of a property.  

Healthy and happy homes 

While evidence proves the power of natural light in reducing energy costs and enhancing building performance, there is also growing emphasis on its ability to improve occupier comfort.   

Day light is hugely beneficial for our physical and psychological well-being.  Natural light is more dynamic than electric lighting, it changes constantly which can be more stimulating.  This not only boosts mood and morale but can help combat fatigue. 

Daylighting is now considered one of the most powerful tools in domestic and commercial building design.

So, which rooflight?

We suggest installers focus on a range of glazed roof products so they can better meet the needs of today’s discerning homeowner.  Products must combine performance, aesthetics, and customisation options and meet the relevant industry and British standards.

While off-the-shelf options provide a budget-friendly solution they are best suited to standard-sized installations such as loft conversions.  To maximise potential and secure higher-value orders, we recommend sourcing bespoke products.  These offer greater flexibility in terms of size, shape, and performance and are more suited to custom designs or more complex projects.  Sourcing from a reliable supplier is also crucial, especially when considering the importance of product range and quality.

Howells Patent Glazing is an established manufacturer of roof glazing systems with more than 50 years’ experience supplying to the domestic and commercial markets.  The company provides products on a supply only and supply and fit basis.