Are you looking to add some light to your living space or home extensions in Dorking? Incorporating a rooflight into your build is a great way to do this. There is plenty to consider and a variety of questions that need to be answered during the planning phase of your project. Are you adding rooflights to an existing extension or building a new extension? Do you want windows that open with a remote control or fixed rooflights? Is the roof flat or pitched?
With a range of options available, you have to look at every consideration to decide what is best for you and your family. To give you a helping hand, we have compiled a guide to get you through the planning stage and to answer the important questions.
Existing Home Extensions in Dorking
When adding rooflights to an existing extension you need to ask whether this change needs planning permission or falls under permitted development. When it comes to adding something to an existing structure, without extending beyond the current space your extension occupies, it usually falls under permitted development. There are some conditions that you need to adhere to for this to be the case. These rules say:
- New skylights on flat roofs cannot project outwards over 150mm from the existing roof level
- Any alterations made cannot be higher than the existing roof
- Obscure glazing must be used on side-facing windows and must be 1.7m above the ground
These limits can pose a challenge as, in most cases, an upstand is required to ensure installation is reliable. This is important when it comes to rooflights on flat roofs because an upstand of minimum 150mm is necessary to maintain roofing material guarantees. This means you may need planning permission in the end.
One very important thing to consider is the current UK Building Regulations. These regulations need to be followed with every building project, whether you have planning permission or if the project falls under permitted development. We always ensure our work meets the current building regulations, avoiding any snags that may be brought up by the regulatory body.
New Home Extensions
When building new home extensions in Dorking, you will need to obtain planning permission and to comply with building regulations. When drawing up plans and designs before applying for planning permission, you need to ensure your architect knows that you want rooflights. By making sure this happens you will avoid any limitations such as loading, electrics and beams.
Location of Rooflights
One of the first things you need to consider when you are installing rooflights in your home is where they will be located. Depending on the direction the roof is facing it can dramatically affect the levels of light coming into the room. Below we explain the differences between the light you get from different directions:
- North-Facing rooms receive a cooler more neutral light away from direct sunlight through the day
- East-facing rooms get the rays of the sun first thing in the morning winding down throughout the day, perfect for early risers
- South-facing rooms get warm light throughout the day, but in summer at midday you will have a bright space
- West-facing rooms get warm light and long shadows going into the evening offering natural light for as long as possible
Rooflight Sizing
When it comes to sizing of your rooflight, the options are endless. You may want to align it with your dining room table or your bath. In the end, it depends on how much light you want in your space. If you decide to position your rooflight lower down and nearer to the side wall, you will get a sun dial that allows light to move through the room throughout the day.
You could always choose to have more than one rooflight throughout the room or your home. Keep in mind the amount of natural light you want streaming into your extension throughout the day.
Style and Features
Once the size and location of your rooflights is decided, you need to consider the style and features that will work for your project. There are two options, fixed rooflights or remote controlled rooflights.
Fixed rooflights do not open and are a more cost-effective option. On the other hand, remote controlled rooflights open and provide additional ventilation for the living space. You can personalise the frame style, size, shape and other features such as walk-on capability.
Glazing
When it comes to the glazing of your rooflights, you need to decide between laminated glass and toughened glass. Laminated glass is a great choice for safety. This is because the inner pane of the rooflight should be laminated to minimise the risk of glass falling down into the room if it should break. Toughened glass is a clearer option, however it is more likely to be broken in a storm and will fall into the room below.
To adhere to UK Building regulations, make sure the manufacturers state ‘whole product’ U-values. This ensures the thermal performance of the rooflight and allows you to be compliant with Part L of Building Regulations. If this is the case then your home will be more energy efficient and avoid higher energy bills.