How we approach electric opening rooflights in Reading
Our electric opening rooflights service in Reading covers hinged rooflights that open on an electric actuator for fresh air. Every job starts with a survey of the opening, the roof covering and the room below, and a fixed written price.
Orangery-style extensions with lanterns are popular across the South East, and solar-control glass makes a big difference on south-facing gardens. Think of electric opening rooflights for kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms that need fresh air as well as light.
We cover all of Reading and the RG1 district, and nearby Earley and Henley-on-Thames.
Choices for your Reading project
- Frame colour to match your doors
- Double or triple glazing
- Insect screen
- Electric actuator with wall switch or remote
- Smart-home or app control (manufacturer dependent)
- Daylight and purge ventilation from one unit
- Clears cooking steam and summer heat at ceiling level
What to check first
- Electrical connection should be made by a competent electrician to BS 7671
- Needs a power supply at the opening — plan the cable route before ceilings close up
Consents for electric opening rooflights in Reading
In England a rooflight on a house is usually permitted development under Class C if it projects no more than 150 mm beyond the roof slope and sits no higher than the ridge. Listed buildings need listed building consent, flats have no householder permitted development rights, and an Article 4 direction can remove the rights in some conservation areas.
For English homes the energy rules ask for rooflights of 2.2 W/m²K or better and roof windows of 1.4 W/m²K (or WER Band B); most modern double glazed units meet both. Replacing a rooflight or roof window can be self-certified by an installer registered with an authorised competent person scheme; otherwise building control approval is needed.
Read the planning permission guide before you commit to a design.
Guide prices for Reading
The ranges below are typical for straightforward jobs; your fixed price follows a survey of your roof.
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large with rain sensor and blind | £4,195 – £5,995 | £3,495 – £4,995 |
| Mid-size electric with rain sensor Typical | £2,995 – £4,195 | £2,495 – £3,495 |
| Small manual or electric opening unit | £2,395 – £3,115 | £1,995 – £2,595 |
The process, step by step
- Get in touch. Use the form, WhatsApp or the guide-price tool with your Reading address.
- Measure and check. A surveyor visits Reading, measures and checks structure and access.
- Fixed quote. Product, work and price in writing — nothing is ordered until you agree.
- Installation day. Usually one day into a prepared opening, longer for new openings.
Neighbouring towns
Other services in Reading
Questions about electric opening rooflights in Reading
Does it need an electrician?
The rooflight wiring needs a suitable supply. We can arrange it, or your own electrician can provide the spur and we connect the unit.
Is it secure when open?
An opening rooflight is a vent, not an access hatch, so the gap is small. For security, close it when the house is empty — a rain sensor does not lock the unit.
Can it open in a power cut?
Most electric units stay where they are during a power cut. Some manufacturers offer a manual override or battery backup — we will tell you which option the chosen model has.
Can you work alongside my builder in Reading?
Yes. On new extensions we fit once the opening and upstand are ready and coordinate dates with your builder.
Is the survey in Reading free?
Yes for new installations. Repair visits are charged, and we tell you the price before we book.
