Roof Lanterns: A Guide On Planning Permission And Building Regulations

If you have decided on adding a roof lantern to your home but you're unsure of a few details, we are here to help. Our Korniche roof lanterns are a perfect way to bring more light into your home whilst also improving the aesthetics in your living space. However, you may be wondering whether you need planning permission and what the building regulations are for your new addition and if so, this is the article for you. 

Planning Permission

Typically, most roof lantern installations in the UK do not require planning permission. However, it is very important to check whether planning permission is required for yours and this is usually dependent on your area. Thus, it's essential to check with your Local Planning Authority as a first step. The general guidelines are that roof lanterns:

• Must not be higher than the highest measurement of the roof
• Must not extend 150mm above the sloping plane of the roof
• Must use obscure glazing when placed in a side elevation roof slope
• Must not open unless the height is a minimum of 1.7m above the floor

Building Regulations

Some building regulations apply to roof lanterns and so when deciding on adding this to your home, the best place to start is to contact a structural engineer to talk you through what to do.

Structural Integrity

A structural engineer will be able to advise you whether your roof will be able to withstand its weight along with the roof lantern added to this, all whilst following building regulations. When the roof lantern is installed, joists and rafters may need to be cut and so it is important to get help on this part of the project.

Energy Efficiency

Building regulations state that excessive heat can not be lost from your home and usually specify a U-Value, meaning how effective your lantern is from preventing the transmittance of heat.

Weatherproof

So that roof lanterns are weatherproof, they have to be installed correctly and this is usually done with lead flashing. Plus, they must withstand all weather fronts and this is tested through the design process so that they are safe for your home.

Ventilation

Roof lanterns must offer enough ventilation to the room they are installed in for an adequate flow into the room. This criteria is usually matched by making roof lanterns with built in air vents. 

Fire Performance

To ensure safety, roof lanterns must be secure in the unfortunate event of a fire. However, this is usually important if your roof lantern is close to a boundary and this point can be discussed with your Local Planning Authority to extend your knowledge on this matter.

Now you have all the tips you need, why not check out our vast variety of roof lanterns? Enjoy!

Our team are more than happy to help you with any questions regarding this topic, so please do not hesitate to contact us.

Feel free to call us on 0333 090 9217 or email us at hello@tradesuperstoreonline.co.uk.