LIGHT & FRESH AIR

Tracey Jackson from Howells Patent Glazing explains the benefits of roof lights as a practical solution for transforming homes into better, fresher, and healthier living spaces.

Extensions remain a popular choice for home improvers 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 provide extra living space, improve flow, and will often open the house up to the garden, above all, it must have plenty of natural light.

Boosting Natural Light Levels

Light needs to pour into the new build space and reach deep into the floorplan.  Yet it isn’t as simple as adding more windows or increasing the expanse of glazing.  To comply with Building Regulations a new build extension must comply with Part L, the guidance that deals with the conservation of fuel and power in existing buildings.

Approved Document L1B suggests that the total area of windows, roof windows and doors in extensions does not exceed 25% of the floor area of the extension.

While areas of glazing over 25% may be permitted under certain circumstances, the regulations suggest that where practical, either the U-value of the window/s should be improved or other compensating measures be applied e.g., more insulation in the roof, upgrading the boiler or replacing existing windows with higher performance ones, all of which will improve the energy efficiency of the home and offset the resulting heat loss from the glazed areas in the extension.

But this comes with added expense.  Homeowners, therefore, will be asking their architect for the best, most efficient way of bringing natural light into their home. 

More Natural Light

Studies show that rooflights provide at least twice as much light than a similar sized vertical window and three times as much as a same sized dormer window. This makes them an attractive proposition for those designing and building an extension.

At a time when we are more conscious of our mental and physical wellbeing, there is growing appreciation for the natural world and its benefits.  Natural light is one such advantage.  It is also hugely beneficial for physical and psychological well-being – improving focus, productivity and engagement.

There are financial rewards too.  A building with high levels of natural light can help keep energy costs down by reducing demand for expensive artificial light.

A Breath of Fresh Air

Ventilation is another important consideration when designing a home or extension.  Fresh air is as important as natural light in aiding our well-being.  Once again, rooflights provide a practical solution.  Some rooflight manufacturers offer vented options which allow for controlled, natural ventilation.  These opening vents are operated using motors which are often hidden from view, and do not impede the aesthetics.

Controls vary from a simple open/close switch to remote controls and digital control panels.  Some offer a built-in external rain sensor and internal thermostat – essential with our unpredictable weather!

Howells Patent Glazing is an established manufacturer of roof glazing systems with more than 50 years’ experience supplying to the domestic and commercial markets.  It is a member of the Rooflight Association.