Homes are changing, with modern, open plan living becoming the norm and demands for more natural light and brightness taking precedence over other design features. Architects use flat glass skylights to introduce more natural light into buildings and create the modern, coveted aesthetic; many new builds, or homes that have extensions, now use this type of skylight as part of the structure. No two properties are the same, so architects are best placed to choose the correct size, type and positioning of the skylight, though the homeowner and end user may also want to specify some of the features they would like – there are lots available.

As a property owner or as an architect, it is therefore very beneficial to know about and understand the different flat glass rooflight and skylight options and to pick and choose between them, based on either your client’s preferences, or your lifestyle and the ways in which you want to use your home. Skylights are very versatile and can often be fitted into both flat and pitched roofs, so whatever you are looking for, there will be an option for you. For example, if appearance is your primary concern, there will be rooflights that provide wonderful sky views and that look ultra modern. If you need more ventilation in an area such as a kitchen or a bathroom, there are options for this too.

The different flat glass skylight options you can pick

These are some of the most popular and widely bought types of flat glass skylight on the market that will allow you to customise and personalise a space:

Flat fixed glass skylights

These are fixed skylight units that do not open; they sit flat to the roof and have a low profile, making them subtle, modern and stylish. They are a very popular option for flat roof extensions to let in more light whilst also creating a highly desirable appearance; the rooflight frame tends to be made of aluminium and comes in various RAL colours to help when styling a home. Modern colours such as anthracite are often chosen and will complement virtually any interior design features, as well as looking attractive from the outside in. 

Hinged flat glass skylights

This type of skylight is very similar to a fixed flat glass skylight but with the addition of a hinged opening mechanism as well. They can be opened manually or automatically – different options are available with different brands and types of skylight.

Walk-on glass skylights

Made with strong reinforced glass, walk-on skylights can be used on balconies, verandas and in other outdoor spaces with foot traffic, where there is a room underneath. They are very safe thanks to the strength of the glass and they are flush with the flooring, avoiding trip hazards.

Multi-part flat glass skylights

For larger roof areas, multi-part flat glass skylights can reduce the cost and effort of installing lots of skylights. There are simple and innovative options available with a modular construction to make installation easier.

Having a pitched roof can have many advantages over a flat roof but this does often come with a higher price tag. While flat roofs can be built to accommodate foot traffic, pitched roofs can be converted to add a substantial amount of extra living space inside. Within a pitched room you can create an attic or even a spare room. This can give you the much-needed space you need and even add value to the property.

Pitched roofs are often more durable than flat roofs and usual last a long time. Due to their design, pitched roofs are also more reliable when it comes to drainage, with water naturally channelled into downpipes and guttering. There is far less chance of water and other weather conditions entering your roof space with a pitched roof.

The price of a pitched roof is always more expensive than some other roof designs and often does require regular maintenance. There are a number of different types of pitched roofs, the Double-Pitched roof is the most common design for roofs that have a pitch. This design can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. A mono-pitched roof usually has a pitch which is lower than the height of the ceiling.